Adidas and Stormzy launch #MerkyFC HQ, empowering Croydon Community

adidas and Stormzy unveiled #MerkyFC HQ, a dynamic hub in Croydon offering football pitches, a recording studio, a gaming hub, and multipurpose rooms. Managed by Communities First Foundation, the center aims to empower youth through sports, music, and digital entertainment.

Photo Greg Coleman

Stormzy expressed excitement for the community-focused initiative, while adidas emphasized their commitment to fostering opportunities for all. With the support of EA SPORTS, the center promises to nurture passions and creativity, making sport and culture accessible to all.

Stormzy said, “I’m gassed that we can finally open the doors to #Merky FC HQ. Working with adidas, I’ve wanted to do this for a long, long time and now there’s a community space that everyone in the area will be able to use and benefit from. When I was growing up there was nothing like this around for young people, so it means a lot that we now have a facility like this in Croydon. Proper homegrown!”

Steve Marks, Senior Director Brand Communications, adidas said: “We’re proud to launch #MerkyFC HQ the next chapter in adidas’ ongoing partnership with Stormzy. Supporting the development of spaces for the local community to connect, play and collaborate is a vital part of our ongoing drive to cultivate opportunities for young people. The centre is a space for everyone including those who enjoy taking part in football, but also for the discovery of other creative passions such as music and esports”

Photo Greg Coleman

Ewemade Orobator, Deputy Director of Operations, Community First said: “#MerkyFC HQ will offer endless possibilities in a much-needed community space. It is hugely exciting to be working alongside adidas and Stormzy to deliver a range of impactful programmes that will empower and inspire Croydon residents and beyond”

Photo by Greg Coleman

James Salmon, Senior Director Brand at EA SPORTS FC continued, “We’re thrilled to support #MerkyFC HQ in providing new opportunities for young people to grow their passion for sports on and off the pitch. We recognise that improving access to first-class facilities is a vital step in helping communities to fulfil their potential and pursue their creative interests.”

Photo by Greg Coleman

Adidas continues its mission to promote equality in sport, recognizing that fair play isn’t universal. Through products, programs, and partnerships, they harness sport’s power for positive change. Collaborating with fellow advocates, adidas strives to ensure access, equity, and safety for all communities.

All the facilities will be available to book via merkyfchq.com. For more information on adidas Football and #MerkyFC please visit adidas.co.uk/footballcollective and merkyfchq.com. 

Written by FM For Music