Zanzibar,In a strategic bid to elevate its international standing and drive economic growth through tourism, Zanzibar is set to host a landmark football event that could reshape its global image.
On July 27, 2025, the iconic Amaan Stadium will welcome Ronaldinho Gaúcho one of football’s most celebrated figures alongside other retired Brazilian football legends for the ‘Match of the Legends.’
The event is expected to draw more than 18,000 spectators on the ground and reach an estimated 500 million viewers worldwide, positioning Zanzibar at the forefront of global sports tourism.
At a press conference held at the Golden Tulip Hotel near Zanzibar’s airport, Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Moudrik Ramadhani Soraga, emphasized the strategic importance of the event.
“Zanzibar’s economy relies heavily on tourism. Hosting world football legends like Ronaldinho is a tactical move to increase our global visibility and appeal,” he stated.
Currently welcoming around 730,000 tourists annually, Zanzibar aims to more than double that figure to 1.5 million visitors by 2027. Events of this magnitude are central to achieving that goal, helping the island compete with other global tourist hotspots.
More than just a football match, the event promises meaningful interaction between visiting Brazilian legends and local communities.
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“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Zanzibar’s young athletes to learn directly from global icons,” he noted.
Such engagement aligns with the government’s broader objectives of youth empowerment and sports development, key components of national growth under President Hussein Ali Mwinyi.
The ‘Match of the Legends’ is being organized by Ocean Business Partners (OBP) in collaboration with Fauzi Sports of Brazil, with support from Zanzibar’s Ministries of Tourism, Youth, Culture, and Sports.
The event is expected to create wide-ranging economic opportunities from merchandising exhibitions to small business participation, especially for local entrepreneurs and vendors.
Organizers have extended invitations to corporate sponsors, influencers, and global stakeholders, positioning the match as a high-visibility platform for branding, networking, and investment.
A former Ballon d’Or winner and 2002 World Cup champion, Ronaldinho remains one of the most beloved and influential footballers of the modern era.
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His participation guarantees international media coverage and global fan interest—adding tremendous value to the event’s promotional power.
With fans across Brazil, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, Ronaldinho’s presence is expected to significantly boost Zanzibar’s international appeal as a tourism and cultural destination.
Zanzibar’s investment in sports infrastructure and its pursuit of high-profile events reflect a long-term vision of economic diversification and youth inclusion.
The government aims to raise tourism’s contribution to over 29.2% of GDP by the end of 2025 a target that hinges on innovative and large-scale initiatives like this one.
As Zanzibar positions itself as a new hub for sports tourism, the ‘Match of the Legends’ represents more than entertainment; it is a declaration of ambition, a celebration of culture, and a bridge connecting Zanzibar to the global stage.
Tags: Ronaldinho, Zanzibar Football, Brazilian Legends, Sports Tourism, Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar Events, OBP, Fauzi Sports, Youth Empowerment, Global Tourism.
Source Daily News