On May 25th, soccer fans worldwide will come together to celebrate the beloved sport’s 100th anniversary. This significant date commemorates the first international soccer tournament in history, held on May 25, 1924, during the Olympic Games in Paris. The United Nations General Assembly has recognized this milestone by adopting a resolution, with over 160 countries co-sponsoring the initiative.
Soccer is more than just a popular pastime; it’s a universal language that transcends national, cultural, and socio-economic barriers. Libya’s U.N. Ambassador, Taher El-Sonni, emphasized this point while highlighting the essential role played by FIFA and regional and national soccer federations in advancing the sport. He called soccer “the number one game played and followed around the world.”
The resolution acknowledges FIFA’s crucial role in promoting gender equality, social inclusion, mutual understanding, tolerance, respect, and solidarity through the game of soccer. On World Football Day observed annually on May 25th, nations, U.N. bodies, international organizations, academia, civil society and private sector are encouraged to promote these benefits through educational and awareness-raising activities that align with national priorities.
This initiative aims to foster a sense of unity and cooperation within the global soccer community while highlighting its positive impact on individuals from diverse backgrounds. It serves as a reminder that despite our differences in culture or socio-economic statuses we can all come together to celebrate something as simple yet meaningful as soccer on this special day.
