Beijing Municipal Government has launched its new football reform scheme. According to the scheme, the development of football has been regarded as an important aspect of the economy and social development in Beijing.

The goal of this football development in Beijing has been divided into 3 steps.

Step 1 – By 2020, the municipal football association in Beijing should be independent from the sports administration organization. The number of football pitches in Beijing should reach 1,610 and there should be 230 schools in Beijing with football as part of their physical education, with not less than 200,000 students in primary schools and middle schools participating in football. 

Step 2 – By 2035, policies and regulations as well as funding sources for football should be finalized in Beijing. Beijing should secure one pitch for every 10,000 people in the city. The municipal men’s team and women’s team should become top teams in China. Beijing should have two clubs competing in the top professional league in China.

Step 3 – By 2050, Beijing should have the world-class ability to organize a professional football league which will allow Beijing to bid for top global football events. Professional football clubs in Beijing should see a great improvement in their global competitiveness.  

Additionally, the scheme also mentions that one to three professional football stadiums, capable of hosting 50,000 people each, will be built or renovated in Beijing. 

Private capitals investing in the construction of football pitches or stadiums would enjoy preferential policies if they meet the relevant standards. 

Source: news.sina.com 

Proofread by Raymond Fitzpatrick