McDonald’s Singapore, FAS bring families together through football ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

Singapore – As FIFA World Cup 2026 fever begins to gather pace across Asia, more than 100 children and parents traded their Saturday routines for football boots and family time at the Lion City Sailors Training Centre in Singapore.

The gathering, titled “Happy Kicks, Happy Kids”, brought together McDonald’s Singapore, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS), the Centre for Fathering, and the Families for Life Council for a football clinic aimed at encouraging stronger parent-child relationships through sport.

Singapore’s Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Edwin Tong attended the event, joining families on the pitch as children took part in football drills led by FAS-accredited coaches. 

National footballers Farhanah Ruhaizat, Dhaniyah Qasimah, and Shahdan Sulaiman also made appearances, offering young participants a rare opportunity to interact with players representing Singapore on the international stage.

For many families, the morning provided an uncommon chance to step onto a professional training ground. 

Alongside coaching sessions, participants moved between carnival-style activity stations spread across the facility, turning the venue into a mix of grassroots football festival and family day out.

The event comes as brands and sporting bodies across the region seek fresh ways to tap into growing enthusiasm ahead of the FIFA World Cup, one of the most watched sporting events globally. 

“At McDonald’s Singapore, we’ve always believed that the best moments in life are the ones shared together. ‘Happy Kicks, Happy Kids’ reflects that belief – bringing families closer through the joy of football, play, and togetherness,” said Lee May Yin, Managing Director, McDonald’s Singapore.

“We’re proud to partner alongside organisations aligned in our mission to uplift families including the Centre for Fathering and Families for Life Council, to create opportunities that strengthen parent-child bonds. We hope the memories made today will inspire many more meaningful moments for the families,” said Lee.

Beyond the football drills, organisers placed a strong emphasis on family participation rather than competition. 

Parents joined their children in activities throughout the morning, while volunteer father figures from DADs for Life supported children whose fathers were unable to attend.

“Football is a game enjoyed by many, but seeing fathers out there, being present and running alongside their children, is what DADs for Life hopes to see more of in Singapore,” said Yuen Chee Onn, Chief Advocate of the Centre for Fathering.

“These moments of shared play are where bonds are quietly strengthened, and where children learn that their fathers show up, not just at milestones, but on an ordinary Saturday morning. And for children whose fathers are unable to be around, our DADs for Life soccer dads stepped in to be there for them, because every child deserves someone who shows up for them,” said Yuen.

As the morning drew to a close, families gathered over a meal featuring McDonald’s favourites, including Chicken McNuggets, Hash Browns, Corn, and Potato Pops. 

Participants also received event merchandise, including football jerseys and FIFA collectible cups.

The initiative forms part of Singapore’s National Family Festival and reflects a broader effort by community groups, sports organisations, and corporate partners to encourage family engagement through shared experiences.