Celebrating the world’s most popular sport, May 25 is now officially recognized as World Football Day by the United Nations General Assembly. This special day commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament that took place on May 25, 1924, during the summer Olympic Games in Paris. With representation from all regions, this historic event marked a significant moment in the world of sports.
Referred to as soccer in the United States, football is more than just a game played for fun and in competitions. According to Libya’s U.N. Ambassador Taher El-Sonni, football is considered the number one game played and followed worldwide. It serves as a universal language that transcends national, cultural, and socioeconomic barriers, making it a powerful tool for social inclusion and unity.
Recognized for its unparalleled position in the world of sports, football has become a pivotal platform for championing gender equality, promoting social inclusion, and fostering mutual understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds. The game provides a common ground where people converge, promoting tolerance, respect, and solidarity.
The recent resolution adopted by the 193-member General Assembly highlights the fundamental role of football’s international governing body, FIFA, as well as regional and national football federations and relevant associations. These organizations play a crucial role in promoting and supporting the game of football on a global scale.
The resolution encourages all countries to support football and other sports as tools for promoting peace, development, and the empowerment of women and girls. It calls for the adoption of policies and programs to promote football and physical activities as a means of fostering cooperation and unity among nations.
On World Football Day, nations are invited to come together to celebrate the unifying power of the beautiful game. As football continues to create spaces for cooperation and understanding, it remains a symbol of hope and unity for people around the world. Let us embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and celebrate the universal language of football that brings us all together.