Premier Invitational Set to Shine on the Gold Coast

WORDS: Ocean Road Editorial Staff PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

A record-breaking 660 teams will descend on Carrara for Australia’s largest junior football tournament

This September, the Gold Coast will once again cement its place as Australia’s footballing capital when the Premier Invitational kicks off at Carrara. Running from Friday 26 September to Sunday 5 October 2025, the tournament will host a staggering 660 teams across ten action-packed days. With players travelling from all over Australia, New Zealand, and even Japan, the event promises to be the most exciting edition yet.

Magic United General Manager Andrew Robinson said the growth of the tournament is a reflection of its quality and reputation. “We’re really looking forward to the tournament this year. We have 660 teams registered and we are expecting 120,486 through the gates over the duration of the tournament. Teams will travel from all over Australia, New Zealand, and we have two teams travelling from Japan. We expect the tournament to continue to grow over the coming years and we expect to break the 1000 teams barrier before 2028 as part of our Tournament Strategic Plan,” he said. Robinson also encouraged companies interested in sponsoring or partnering with the event to get in touch.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the tournament is much more than football—it’s a showcase of the city itself. “When it comes to junior football tournaments, nothing beats the Premier Invitational. This 10-day tournament is the breeding ground of Australia’s future Socceroos and Matildas and a chance for our city to showcase its facilities and support services to thousands of football supporters,” he said. The Mayor also highlighted the significant economic benefits for the region, with more than 23,000 supporters and 1600 coaches expected to attend.

The tournament has received strong backing from the Queensland Government, with the Honourable Andrew Powell MP, Minister for Environment and Tourism, praising its role in connecting communities and boosting tourism. Supported by Tourism and Events Queensland through the Destination Events Program, the Premier Invitational is seen as a hallmark of Queensland’s ability to deliver world-class events that also celebrate local culture.

As thousands of players take the field, the Gold Coast will not only host an extraordinary football spectacle but also invite visitors to enjoy the city’s world-famous beaches, theme parks, and hinterland adventures. The Premier Invitational is set to deliver unforgettable sporting memories while fuelling community pride and economic growth.

For more information on any of The Magic Group’s tournaments, visit www.themagicgroup.com.au