Arsenal have confirmed that they will not be hosting their traditional Emirates Cup next summer because of the London Olympics.
Gunners will not be hosting traditional pre-season competition
Arsenal have confirmed that they will not be hosting their traditional Emirates Cup next summer because of the London Olympics.
The Olympics are set to run from 27th July until 12th August which leaves little time for the Gunners to host their competition ahead of next season.
Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis confirmed the news, but added that plans for an exciting tournament in 2013 were already in place.
He said: "Although we are disappointed that we cannot stage the Emirates Cup in 2012, we completely understand and accept the situation.
"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."
Arsenal went on a tour to the Far East last summer which they may do again next year.
"We are looking at a number of options. The calendar is complex, but we hope to be able to confirm our plans soon," Gazidis said.
