Shenyang – September 15, 2026 -- The fourth "Hello, Shenyang" International Football Friendly Match kicked off on September 5 at Shenyang University, drawing international residents from business, academic and diplomatic circles for a day of sport and cultural exchange.
Four teams competed under municipal government sponsorship
The event was organized by the Shenyang Municipal People's Government, in cooperation with the Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, the Municipal Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Municipal Sports Bureau and Shenyang University, with China Today Shenyang Salon as a partner unit. Vice Mayor Zhao Wei addressed consular officials and international residents at the opening ceremony.
Four teams took the field: a BMW corporate team, international student squads from Shenyang University and Shenyang Medical College, and players from Shenyang Huimin Senior High School.
Cultural performances accompanied the matches
Wing Chun martial arts demonstrations and qipao fashion shows ran alongside the games, while Ultimate Football and Unity Challenge team-building activities added informal competition between matches.
Annual event has run since 2023
Launched in 2023, the match has become a recurring platform for foreign residents in Shenyang, bringing together players of varied nationalities, ages and professions each year.
Shenyang is positioning itself as an international hub city in Northeast Asia, aiming to strengthen its role in international exchanges and sister-city relations while expanding services for foreign residents.