Rio Ferdinand Joins Alibaba.com’s CoCreate Pitch as Judge

The competition, part of Alibaba.com’s inaugural CoCreate Europe event, will bring together 30 of the most promising entrepreneurs from across the continent to pitch their product innovations. With a prize pool of $400,000, the competition aims to accelerate product development and support the next generation of SMEs. 

CoCreate Europe, Alibaba.com’s first flagship b2b event in Europe, offers a dynamic platform for entrepreneurs to connect and grow. It will provide exclusive access to Alibaba.com’s cutting-edge tools and supplier network, with its AI-powered sourcing tools AI Mode and Accio automating the entire sourcing process, and its supply chain connecting buyers with 200,000 suppliers across 76 categories and over 2 billion products. The event will feature keynotes and panels on topics ranging from how to cut business costs and build resilient supply chains, to harness AI for growth, scale beyond borders and tap into the trends set to shape 2026 and beyond. In addition, there will be a plethora of networking opportunities for sellers, connecting them with sourcing professionals, suppliers, investors, SME influencers, and many more.  

Rio Ferdinand is a former England international and one of football’s most decorated defenders, with six Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League. Today, as President of New Era Ingenious and a global content creator, Rio channels his competitive spirit into business and media innovation. With ventures spanning property, lifestyle, tech and sport, he continues to redefine the modern athlete, transforming on-pitch excellence into entrepreneurial impact across multiple industries. 

Rio Ferdinand says: “On the pitch I learnt the value of ambition, fresh ideas and determination, and those same qualities have guided me in building a successful business career. As a judge at CoCreate Pitch, I’m looking forward to sharing those experiences and supporting the next generation of innovative product-based start-ups in Europe.”  

Kuo Zhang, President, Alibaba.com, adds: “We’re delighted to welcome Rio as a judge to CoCreate Pitch at the inaugural CoCreate Europe conference in London in November. We look forward to welcoming SMEs from across the continent to join us in person at the event and are excited to bring this unique sourcing ecosystem conference to Europe for the first time.” 

Benjamin Deblicker, SVP Sales SPORTFIVE, concludes: “Alibaba.com wanted to partner with a figure who resonates with both the public and the business community. Rio Ferdinand embodies ambition, credibility, and success, values that align perfectly with CoCreate. We are thrilled to have supported Alibaba.com in making this strategic choice.“ 

Chris Gankerseer, SVP of Commercial, New Era Ingenious, commented: “Alibaba’s spirit of innovation, entrepreneurship and global connection aligns perfectly with Rio’s journey from athlete to creator and business leader. Both believe in empowering the next generation to think bigger, break boundaries and create lasting impact through creativity and technology.” 

Tickets for CoCreate Europe are available now at https://www.alibabacocreate.com/. Attendees can choose from General, Premium or VIP admission, each offering full access to sessions, networking opportunities and exclusive event experiences.