Flanders Today reported that Free University of Brussels (VUB) is launching the International Football Business Institute (IFBI) this autumn to prepare future executives to work in the football industry. Belgium’s Red Devils are currently number two in the Fifa ranking, making Belgium a strategic place to launch the only institution of its kind in the world.
Since Brussels will be home to this unique institution in the world, it will certanly bring positive effects for the city/region in regard to place branding. The importance of Brussels brand increases every time that a new international institution (political, social, educational etc) is established in the region. Even more when a totally new concept is introduced and is related to such a globally popular (and powerful) field of life – soccer.
Applications are now being accepted from students who already have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. The one-year programme will be offered in English. Renowned international football professionals such as Grant Downie, head of performance at Manchester City, and Peter Willems, head of marketing and sponsorship at the Union of European Football Associations, will teach students the ins and outs of the industry.
“Our students can count on the best guidance, and they will be trained by some of the biggest names in the international football business,” said Jos Verschueren, director of VUB’s Sports Management department and the founder of IFBI.
Read the rest of the article at Flanders Today or visit the official site of the International Football Business Institute
Photo: IFBI
