Abu Dhabi brings Football Icons to the Court - Roberto Carlos, Luís Figo, Iker Casillas, Ronaldinho, Thierry Henry and Gerard Piqué in a One-of-a-kind Game

Abu Dhabi, UAE, September 27, 2024: Get ready for an unforgettable game as Abu Dhabi brings a never-before-seen clash of football legends on the basketball court during NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced an unmissable spectacle that promises to have fans on their feet.

On October 5, inside Etihad Arena on Yas Island, The NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi will feature  an extraordinary hybrid basketball and football match titled ‘Clash of the Legends’. Some of the greatest footballers of all time will swap the pitch for the court in a thrilling 3x3 game, packed with excitement and friendly rivalries.

Football Icons Make a Switch

For the first time ever, Brazilian sensation Roberto Carlos, Portuguese legend Luís Figo, and Spain’s star goalkeeper Iker Casillas will bring their best basketball and football moves to the court. They will be facing off against The Wizard Ronaldinho, masterful striker Thierry Henry, and Spain’s renowned centre-back Gerard Piqué. These six football legends will go head-to-head on the basketball court at Etihad Arena.

“I’m looking forward to competing against Ronaldinho, Thierry, and Gerard again. Fans remember the intense football matches we played back in the day and bringing that rivalry to the basketball court will be very special for everyone.” Casillas said. “I have the most experience using my hands, so hopefully that will translate to the court. Roberto will be our electric point guard, and Luís will shine in key moments.”

“I think it’s going to be historic because, for the first time, we will face each other playing basketball,” Piqué said. “We’ve had many epic games on the pitch and reviving that rivalry on a basketball court will bring a lot of excitement and competition. I love the NBA and have been to many games. With Ronaldinho and Thierry on my team, we’ll bring the magic!”

Regarding what fans can expect, Piqué added: “I think we’ll put on a great show. NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi is all about highlighting the values of sport and giving fans who attend some unforgettable memories. We’ll give our best on the court.”

Fan Experiences You Can’t Miss

The NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi will also feature a guest performance by award-winning American rapper 2 Chainz. Fans will be treated to a variety of fan entertainment featuring Celtics and Nuggets players, a skills challenge and three-point contest, NBA team mascot appearances, a slam dunk contest featuring professional dunkers, musical acts and more. 

Tickets for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 presented by ADQ on October 4 and 6 are on sale at etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae.

Tickets for the “NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi” on October 5 and the “NBA District”, which opens on October 3, are also on sale now at ticketmaster.ae.

About the Football Legends:

Roberto Carlos, famed for his speed and powerful free kicks, won three UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid and played a key role in Brazil's 2002 World Cup triumph.

Portugal’s Ballon d’Or winner Figo was a creative force for Madrid, winning the Champions League in 2002.

Casillas meanwhile is one of the greatest goalkeepers ever, winning five La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues, and leading Spain to World Cup and European Championship victories.

The iconic Ronaldinho won the FIFA World Cup 2002, the Ballon d’Or in 2005, and was instrumental in securing a Champions League title for Barca in 2006.

Thierry Henry, one of football’s most prolific scorers, played a pivotal role in the Spanish side’s historic 2009 treble and also lifted the World Cup with France in 1998.

Gerard Piqué, a commanding defensive leader who played a key role in Barcelona’s three most recent Champions League victories, was also a crucial part of Spain's 2010 World Cup triumph.