World Football Day

World Football Day is celebrated annually on May 25, as proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in May 2024. This observance honors the centenary of the first international football tournament, held during the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, where teams from all regions participated. The day recognizes football’s universal appeal and its role in promoting peace, unity, and development worldwide.

History of World Football Day

The inaugural international football tournament took place on May 25, 1924, during the Paris Olympics, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s history. To commemorate this event’s 100th anniversary, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in May 2024, formally designating May 25 as World Football Day. The resolution, introduced by Libya and co-sponsored by over 160 member states, acknowledges football’s global reach and its capacity to foster social inclusion and cooperation. ¹

The UN’s declaration emphasizes football’s impact beyond the pitch, highlighting its influence in areas such as commerce, diplomacy, and gender equality. The resolution encourages member states to leverage football as a tool for promoting peace, development, and the empowerment of women and girls.

Why is World Football Day important?

World Football Day serves as a reminder of football’s power to unite people across cultures and nations. The sport’s widespread popularity makes it an effective platform for addressing social issues and promoting positive change. By celebrating this day, we acknowledge football’s role in fostering mutual understanding and solidarity among diverse communities.

Additionally, the observance highlights the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities within the sport. It encourages efforts to make football accessible to all, regardless of gender, background, or ability, and to use the game as a means of empowering marginalized groups.

• Celebrates football’s role in uniting diverse communities
• Acknowledges the sport’s influence beyond entertainment
• Promotes inclusivity and equal opportunities in football
• Encourages the use of football for social development
• Highlights the sport’s contribution to global peace efforts

How to Celebrate World Football Day

Celebrating World Football Day can be as simple as watching a match with friends or as involved as organizing a local tournament. Communities can host football clinics, friendly games, or discussions on the sport’s impact on society. Sharing stories and experiences related to football on social media using the hashtag #WorldFootballDay can also help spread awareness.

Educational institutions might incorporate lessons on football’s history and its role in promoting social cohesion. Non-profit organizations can use the day to launch initiatives aimed at increasing access to the sport for underrepresented groups.

• Watch or play a football match with your community
• Organize a local tournament or skills clinic
• Share personal football stories on social media
• Host discussions on football’s societal impact
• Support initiatives that promote inclusivity in the sport

World Football Day Dates Table

1. https://www.un.org/en/observances/football-day[↩]