United Nations Proclaims May 25 as World Football Day

Author:

Anastasia Petkov

|Published: May 9th, 2024

Soccer enthusiasts worldwide will now have an annual celebration dedicated to the world's most beloved sport – May 25.

In a historic move, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution on Tuesday, designating May 25 as World Football Day.

This decision commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first-ever international soccer tournament, held during the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, where all regions were represented.

The resolution, a testament to the universal appeal of soccer, was co-sponsored by over 160 countries.

Its adoption was met with enthusiastic support, symbolized by a ceremonial gavel by General Assembly President Dennis Francis and applause from the diplomats present.

Taher El-Sonni, Libya's U.N. Ambassador and the resolution's introducer, highlighted soccer's global prominence, referring to it as "the number one game played and followed around the globe."

However, he emphasized that soccer transcends mere entertainment, serving as a universal language fostering unity and understanding across diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Acknowledging soccer's multifaceted impact, the resolution underscores its role in commerce, peacebuilding, diplomacy, and its contributions to gender equality and social inclusion.

It pays tribute to FIFA, soccer's international governing body, and emphasizes the crucial role of regional and national federations in promoting the sport.

Moreover, the resolution urges countries to harness the power of soccer and other sports to advance peace, development, and the empowerment of women and girls.

It calls for the adoption of policies and programs to promote sports and physical activities at both national and international levels.

The resolution invites nations, U.N. bodies, international organizations, academia, civil society, and the private sector to observe World Football Day on May 25.

It encourages activities aimed at promoting soccer's benefits for all, including educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns.