WITH the Heineken® UEFA Champions League Trophy Tour having come and gone, for South African’s it will be a memorable event.
This years’ legend was none other than German football legend Bastian Schweinsteiger, who traversed both Cape Town and Joburg cities, in the company of a prestigious UEFA League Trophy.
Bastian connected with fans in Cape Town through an exclusive brunch at CABO Beach Club, a meet-and-greet and trophy photo opportunity at the V&A Waterfront, and a grand trophy handover ceremony at Zeitz MOCCA.
In Johannesburg, fans got up close and personal with the legend and the trophy at Melrose Arch, followed by a glamorous black-tie dinner that united South Africa’s football community, celebrities, and enthusiasts.
“It’s been a privilege to bring the Champions League trophy to South Africa,” Schweinsteiger says.
“The passion for football here is incredible and I was overwhelmed by the welcome I have received in both Cape Town and Johannesburg. South African fans really understand what makes the Champions League special – the drama, the skill, and the unforgettable moments.”
Schweinsteiger charmed audiences with his energy, insightful commentary, and genuine warmth, during interaction with broadcaster of note- Robert “Madluphuthu” Marawa.
“The response from South African fans has been phenomenal,” says Warrick Wyngaard, Heineken® Brand Marketing Communication Manager.
“This tour exemplifies why the Heineken® partnership with the UEFA Champions League continues to be one of football’s most iconic collaborations.
Bringing a legendary talent like Bastian Schweinsteiger together with a trophy that represents the pinnacle of club football excellence created magical moments that truly connected fans.
The extraordinary level of engagement we have seen over the four-day Trophy Tour demonstrates the passion South Africans have for world-class football,” says Wyngaard.
The Heineken® UEFA Champions League Trophy Tour continues Heineken’s tradition of bringing extraordinary football moments to fans worldwide, combining legendary talent with iconic moments that capture the essence of this beautiful game.
Another legend Clarence Seedorf, who is revered, as he is the first, and currently the only player to have won the Champions League with three clubs – once with Ajax, in 1995, once with Real Madrid, in 1998 and twice with AC Milan, in 2003 and 2007, paid SA a visit in 2022.
The trophy tour will also visit Zambia and Kenya, Vietnam and Indonesia, amongst others.
Ed Note: The UEFA semi-finals will see which teams- Arsenal vs PSG and Barcelona vs Milan, will reach the finals to be held end of May.
Image (Bastian Schweinsteiger, German legend during UEFA Champions Trophy Tour in SA recently).
