The cup will be held on Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24, 2005 at Dens Park and Tannadice and will see two matches take place each day starting at 1pm and 4pm. Discussions are already underway with potential opponents to compete for the City of Discovery trophy and approaches will shortly be made to commercial sponsors to become involved in supporting the tournament.
Making the announcement at a joint press conference at the City Chambers, Lord Provost John Letford, chairman of the City of Discovery Campaign, said the tournament would be a wonderful summer event for the whole city. “We are delighted to be working with Dundee and Dundee United to create a major new event on the summer calendar for the city. It will play a significant role in our efforts to raise Dundee’s profile. I’m sure the tournament will prove popular among fans of both clubs with another derby in the offing but we also hope it will attract people to the city from elsewhere to come and see some good football and enjoy the entertainments.”
Dundee director Jimmy Marr said, “A Discovery Cup is something that has been talked about for a few years now but we’re delighted to join forces with United and the city council to finally make it a reality.
“Both clubs are major ambassadors for the city, both contribute a great deal to the local economy and both help bring thousands of visitors to Dundee every year.
“It promises to be a great tournament and a great event for the city – and with that extra edge of an early derby, I’m sure supporters of both clubs will want to make it a weekend to remember.”
Dundee United chairman Eddie Thompson, said “Both football clubs have brought considerable credit to the city of Dundee over the years and we are proud of the role we play in the community. We are delighted to take part in this new initiative to promote the city and hope it becomes a regular fixture on the calendar.”
Plans are underway to stage entertainments throughout both days of the tournament with football workshops in the morning for youngsters, celebrities and “old boy’s” matches between cup games and music afterwards.
Further details regarding the opposition and the entertainments will be announced as the plans are finalised.