Arsenal call off Emirates Cup for 2012

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has revealed that pre-season competition the Emirates Cup will not go ahead in 2012, to make way for the London Olympics of next year.

"Although we are disappointed that we cannot stage the Emirates Cup in 2012, we completely understand and accept the situation,” Gazidis said.


"Over 100,000 people have attended the Emirates Cup each year since we introduced the competition in 2007, and this would have only added to the demands on London's infrastructure during the Olympics.


"Of course, we would have preferred the Emirates Cup to have been staged in 2012, but we completely respect the situation and like everyone, are fully supportive of, and looking forward to a successful London 2012 Olympic Games.


"We are already planning ahead to bring three high profile clubs to Emirates Stadium for 2013."