The inaugural Como Cup came to a fitting conclusion on Sunday evening as the hosts lifted the trophy, courtesy of a convincing 3-0 over Ajax, with an impressive drone show during the trophy presentation, the cherry on top of an event that has set the bar.
The pre-season tournament was part of Football On The Lake, a five-day festival that intertwined football, culture, and music in the iconic setting of Lake Como.
Invitees included Celtic, Ajax, and Al-Hilal, bringing some of the biggest names in football to the most iconic setting in the game — with Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney, Franck Kessie, Sergi Roberto, Nico Paz, Rayane Bounida, and Kenneth Taylor all competing for the ultimate prize.
While the hosts will be emboldened by their triumph, the festival represents a wider shift in the relationship between football, culture, and music. The first of its kind, Como 1907 have become a trailblazer, recognising the value of intersecting different mediums through the lens of football.
However, the performances on the pitch weren’t the only highlight of the week, as iconic artists such as Becky Hill, Sick Luke, and DJ Patrick Nazemi were on hand to keep supporters entertained in between matches.
High-profile guests, including Giggs, Avelino, and ASAP Nast, not only raised the profile of the event, but they also reminded us of the power of intertwining various cultures, with the crossover for the summer proving that football belongs to all.
Como’s grip on the culture was further evident, with Creative Director Rhuigi Villaseñor, founder of American fashion house Rhude, a prominent figure throughout the week. Not only was he present for the trophy presentation, but a pop-up shop in Como offered attendees the chance to get their hands on one of the flyest football x fashion collaborations in the game. Since joining the club, Rhuigi has been making waves in the kit game, fusing the iconic scenery and culture of the city with Rhude’s signature style.
More than just a five-day festival offering attendees a taste of all the city has to offer, football, fashion, music, and culture, the inaugural Football On The Lake epitomises the modern game. Rather than shy away from the modern cultural zeitgeist, Como embraced these influences on the game and have set the standard when it comes to football culture.
Undoubtedly aided by their position in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, the off-pitch recognition of where the game is headed sets them apart from their nearest competitors, and their success on the pitch reinforces the club’s overall commitment to excellence in all aspects.
