Factor Sales x ELTA Crowned Europa Cup Winners at 2026 IAAF Five-a-Side Tournament

ELTA was proud to take part in the 2026 IAAF Five-a-Side Tournament, held at The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion F.C. As businesses from across the independent automotive aftermarket came together for a day of football, networking, and industry collaboration.

Organised by the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation, the annual tournament has become a popular fixture within the aftermarket calendar. Offering a valuable opportunity for suppliers, factors, and industry professionals to connect away from the day-to-day pressures of business, while reinforcing the strong relationships that continue to drive the sector forward.

This year saw ELTA join forces with Factor Sales to create a combined squad under the banner of Factor Sales x ELTA. Representing ELTA on the pitch were Sales Director Craig O'Neil and Quality Co-ordinator Alex Stirling, alongside the Factor Sales team of Tom Henman, Shevket Halil Shevket, Izzy Shalaan, and Seb de Pedro, with Tim Brotherton taking on the role of team manager.

After a competitive and entertaining day of football, the Factor Sales x ELTA team finished as Europa Cup winners, capping off an excellent tournament performance and demonstrating the same teamwork and determination that underpin successful partnerships throughout the aftermarket.

While the result on the pitch was a proud moment for the team, the event itself represented something even bigger; the continued strength of the independent aftermarket and the importance of businesses working together to support, elevate, and champion the sector.

We believe the aftermarket is strongest when businesses work together, share ideas, and build lasting relationships. Events like the IAAF Five-a-Side Tournament are a great way to bring people together, strengthen industry connections, and celebrate the people behind the sector.

The tournament also highlighted the strong community spirit within the independent aftermarket. From suppliers and distributors to factors and service providers, the day reflected the shared passion, commitment, and collective drive to keep the industry moving forward.

ELTA would also like to congratulate the “LKQ Legends” team, who were crowned overall 2026 tournament champions following an impressive performance throughout the competition.

Reflecting on the event, the day served as another reminder that the aftermarket is about far more than products and services alone. It is built on partnerships, teamwork, and the willingness of businesses to support one another, values that continue to help the independent aftermarket thrive.

We would like to thank the IAAF for organising another excellent tournament and everyone who took part in making the event such a success.

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