HOUSTON — Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States, has announced its continued sponsorship of the Genuine Cup, a global soccer tournament for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The second annual tournament will be held at Rice University in Houston from July 29 through August 1, 2025, bringing together more than 800 participants across 38 teams from 24 countries.
The Genuine Cup aims to foster inclusion and celebrate neurodiversity through the unifying power of sport. Teams from prestigious international clubs and national programs—including Manchester United Foundation, Paris Saint-Germain, Ajax, Boca Juniors, Club América, Inter Milan, Barcelona Foundation, and the Mexico, Croatia, and Puerto Rico national teams—are among the global roster participating in this year’s event.
“At Goya Foods, we are dedicated to the values of community and inclusivity,” said Rafael Toro, National Director of Public Relations at Goya Foods. “Sponsoring the Genuine Cup goes beyond supporting a tournament; it’s about coming together to uplift and celebrate individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. We are honored to be part of this movement that fosters understanding, acceptance, and unity through the universal language of soccer.”
This year’s event builds on the success of the inaugural Genuine Cup, which debuted in 2024. With expanded participation and international representation, the tournament has quickly grown into a prominent platform for showcasing the abilities and passion of neurodiverse athletes on a global stage.
The competition is not affiliated with any single league or governing body, but is instead supported by a network of soccer foundations, developmental programs, and clubs focused on inclusion. In addition to providing a structured athletic event, the tournament is designed to create social and cultural exchange opportunities among participants, coaches, and families.
Nacho Torras, one of the tournament’s organizers, praised Goya’s renewed partnership. “Having Goya on board again means the world to us,” he said. “Goya’s ongoing support not only affirms the positive direction we’re taking but also validates our mission and the impact we strive to make. Most importantly, it helps us strengthen our efforts to serve the neurodiverse community and build a powerful platform for lasting change and meaningful impact. We are deeply grateful for their trust and partnership in this journey.”
The tournament’s location at Rice University in Houston reflects both the city’s cultural diversity and its growing prominence as a hub for inclusive community events. The university’s facilities are expected to host hundreds of spectators, family members, and volunteers, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere for the athletes.
Goya’s involvement in the event is part of a broader philanthropic commitment the company has made to health, education, and social programs. Known for its longstanding community engagement, particularly within Hispanic and underserved communities, Goya continues to support a range of initiatives beyond the food aisle.
As the Genuine Cup approaches, organizers hope the event will serve as both a showcase of athletic achievement and a catalyst for more inclusive programming in sports. With support from corporate partners like Goya Foods, the event continues to elevate awareness and advocate for greater opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in sports and beyond.
