SOCCA Enters a New Era

SOCCA Enters a New Era – New Leadership, Clear Vision, Global Ambition

A new chapter begins for the International Socca Federation (ISF).

As of March 30, 2026, the organization has been acquired by Christoph Koechy and Thanos Papadopoulos through their respective companies, Amilla Marketing and Libero S&T, who act as the leading shareholders alongside a broader group of strategic investors, with further additions to be announced in due course. The transaction marks a defining moment in SOCCA’s development and sets the foundation for its next phase of global growth.

With this transition, ISF’s headquarters move to Germany, establishing a stronger operational and commercial base at the heart of Europe.

Christoph Koechy assumes the role of President, while Thanos Papadopoulos continues as CEO, ensuring continuity in leadership and day-to-day operations. The new structure combines long-term experience within SOCCA with a clear strategic reset.

Over the past years, SOCCA has built a strong international footprint, bringing together national teams and communities from around the world. This foundation now serves as the launchpad for a more focused and commercially driven future.

Christoph Koechy comments:

“In recent years, football has evolved beyond traditional structures. New formats, new audiences, and new commercial models are shaping the game. SOCCA is uniquely positioned within this landscape – as the official platform for national team competition in small-sided football, combining institutional credibility with modern, commercially driven formats.

Our goal is clear: to commercialize, and globalize SOCCA – without losing the authenticity that makes the game special.”

At the core of this strategy is a dual approach: strengthening SOCCA’s role as a leading international authority in small-sided football, while unlocking new commercial opportunities across media, sponsorship, and event formats.

Digital growth and content distribution will play a key role, with a strong focus on expanding global reach and building relevance among younger audiences.

Thanos Papadopoulos adds:

“SOCCA has always been about bringing the game closer to the people – whether in city centers, on beaches, or in iconic public locations. We will continue to develop this identity while building a more stable and scalable international calendar.

At the same time, we are strengthening our relationships with our members. The future of SOCCA will be built together with our national federations.”

Grassroots development remains a central pillar. ISF will continue investing in national structures and competitions across all categories – men, women, and youth – while supporting multiple formats of the game, including 5v5, 6v6, and 7v7.

A particular focus will be placed on refining the 6v6 and 7v7 formats to ensure a fast, attractive, and broadcast-friendly product.

Strategic partnerships will play a decisive role in this next phase. Together with partners such as TUI Group, SOCCA will continue to combine football with travel, lifestyle, and global fan experiences.

With expansion plans across five continents, SOCCA is entering a new phase – more structured, more ambitious, and more connected than ever before.

SOCCA. Play it Big.