YouTube stars KSI and IShowSpeed have teamed up with football legends Ronaldinho, Gary Lineker, and Luís Figo to bring the Baller League to the UK and US, with trials open for aspiring players.
Originally launched in Germany by footballers Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski alongside entrepreneur Felix Starck, the six-a-side competition is set to go global in 2025, bringing together influencers, ex-professionals, and amateur talent.
Read: Vini Jr receives special invite to Cameroon - 'We're waiting for you'
The Baller League's unique twist is its integration of social media influencers, offering fans the chance to connect with their favourite creators while enjoying high-paced football action.
KSI, boasting 24.8 million YouTube subscribers, has been appointed president of the UK tournament.
Meanwhile, IShowSpeed, who commands an audience of over 60 million followers, will serve as president of the US edition.
So, what is Baller League? pic.twitter.com/h0vPgb0pXI
— BallerLeague (@BallerLeagueUK) November 26, 2024
UK-based YouTubers Miniminter and Tobi, both of Sidemen fame, along with streamer AngryGinge, are set to showcase their management skills in the British event, according to OneFootball.
Across the Atlantic, Ronaldinho, the 2002 FIFA World Cup winner and former Barcelona superstar, will be part of the American competition.
The UK tournament will also feature footballing icons Gary Lineker, John Terry, and Luís Figo as team managers.
Micah Richards, Alan Shearer, Freddie Ljungberg, Jens Lehmann, and Robert Pires have been confirmed as coaches, adding credibility to the exciting new format.
Baller League UK is scheduled to kick off on 3 March 2024 and will run until 19 May, with 12 teams competing on indoor pitches every Monday.
Trials for the league are set to take place in London and Manchester, offering former professionals, futsal players, free agents, and released academy talents a chance to shine.
Each match will be live-streamed, with YouTuber Chunkz hosting a weekly show to bring fans closer to the action.
Felix Starck, one of the league's founders, explained the vision behind the competition.
"Sport is no longer as easy as just saying, 'Look, we're here now, come and watch us,'" Starck told the BBC.
"That's just not how sport works anymore. It needs to be exciting, and it needs to be authentic. Those are the two words that we always use at Baller League."
Read: SA star among international artist's catalogue of Messi, CR7 Co.
The league's combination of entertainment and competitive football is set to create a one-of-a-kind spectacle, offering participants and fans alike an unforgettable experience.