Tianjin Municipal Bureau of Sports signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Wellington Phoenix FC in Wellington, capital of New Zealand, in January. The two sides agreed to take turns holding top-notch international football tournaments, starting this year.

Representatives from Tianjin Municipal Bureau of Sports and Wellington Phoenix FC pose for a commemorative photo. [Photo/WeChat account: tj_swb]

The inaugural match is scheduled to take place in Tianjin on Sept 7, featuring the Tianjin Jinmen Tigers against Wellington Phoenix. 

Apart from that, during school holidays, Tianjin's youth football teams will participate in training camps and matches organized by Wellington Phoenix Academy in Wellington. 

The sister city relations between Tianjin and Wellington aim to foster comprehensive cooperation and exchanges in various aspects of economy, culture, sports and education through sports.

Their partnership stems from the visit of a Wellington delegation consisting of representatives from the government, education and sports sectors to Tianjin on Sept 20, 2023. During their stay, the delegation members engaged in extensive discussions with local government, Tianjin Municipal Bureau of Sports, and Tianjin Football Association, in which both sides decided to advance cooperation in the field of football.

Tianjin Municipal Bureau of Sports and Wellington Phoenix FC sign a Memorandum of Understanding in January. [Photo/WeChat account: tj_swb]

Tianjin is currently in the process of establishing itself as a sports powerhouse, boasting a strong sports atmosphere and enthusiastic fans. 

The Tianjin Jinmen Tigers secured the eighth position in the 2023 Chinese Football Association Super League, and was the only team in the league to maintain an undefeated home record. 

With a total attendance of 455,900 across 15 home matches, averaging over 30,000 spectators per game, it ranked third nationally in terms of home game attendance.

Wellington Phoenix FC, as New Zealand's sole professional football club, has participated in the A-League, and holds considerable influence and appeal in Wellington.