Shamrock Rovers Captain and Cabo Verde International Pico Lopes is to receive a civic welcome home for his “remarkable achievements in football” by Dublin City Council.
The event is to take place on Saturday, July 25th at 2pm at Eamonn Ceannt Park, Lourdes Celtic FC and will celebrate what the Council said is Lopes’ “remarkable achievements in football, including his role in helping Cabo Verde reach the FIFA World Cup, while recognising the important contribution of Lourdes Celtic FC and the local community to his development”.
In a statement, the council added that from “grassroots football in Dublin to captaining one of Ireland’s most successful clubs and representing his country on the international stage,” the footballer is “an inspiring example of what can be achieved through talent, dedication and community support”.
The civic reception will honour his achievements and highlight the vital role local clubs such as Lourdes Celtic play in nurturing young talent and strengthening communities across Dublin.
Lopes explained that he is “looking forward to returning to Lourdes Celtic” and thanked everyone at the club and in the community for their support, “both throughout my career and during Cabo Verde’s World Cup journey.”
The 34-year-old from Crumlin, Dublin continued: “Lourdes Celtic gave me my start in football and will always hold a special place in my heart.
“It means a lot to celebrate these achievements at a grassroots club, because clubs like Lourdes Celtic are the heartbeat of football in Dublin. I would like to thank everyone involved in making this special occasion possible.”
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daryl Barron, added that the council is “proud” to welcome Pico Lopes back to the community where his football journey began.
“His achievements for both Shamrock Rovers and Cabo Verde have made him a source of pride for Dublin and an inspiration to young people across the city.
“This event is also an opportunity to recognise the important work of Lourdes Celtic FC in supporting and developing local sporting talent,” noted the Lord Mayor.
