FIFA launch first ever ‘World Cup’ for Football Manager with prize money – and it’s backed by Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger

FIFA will host its first ever FIFAe World Cup of Football Manager this year to crown the best virtual manager on the popular game.
World football’s governing body announced on Thursday that players will compete for a $100,000 (£79,000) prize in an event that will run from August 29 to September 1.
FIFA will partner with game developers Sports Interactive alongside legendary Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger who acts as ambassador for the event.
Football Manager is a football management simulation game that has become a huge favourite among footy fans looking to test their managerial credentials.
Lens head coach Will Still famously spent countless hours playing football manager to fine tune his craft before working his way into the realm of professional management.
"This competition requires participants to demonstrate a profound understanding of football strategy and tactics," said Wenger who is the FIFA’s chief of global football development and a three-time Premier League title winner, who also oversaw a first ever unbeaten season in the Premier League.
Read more on football
"Success demands not only mastery of game mechanics but also in-depth football knowledge, making this format a fascinating blend."
FIFA revealed the event will see selected member associations invited to be represented at the final with members from all six of FIFA confederations expected to receive an invitation.
Players can sign up for the event via the FIFA website.
The announcement comes after FIFA recently announced a new partnership with Rocket League.
Most read in Football
FIFA will launch a first-ever FIFAe World Cup featuring Rocket League, in which 16 nations from around the world will compete for the title.
Over the past 12 months, FIFAe had partnered with a host of companies including mental health brand Calm, mental health charity Ditch the Label and esports data company HUDstats.