The United Nations General Assembly recently passed a resolution declaring May 25 as World Football Day. This day commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament that took place during the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, where teams from all regions participated. The resolution, introduced by Libya’s permanent representative to the UN, Taher M. El-Sonni, was backed by over 160 countries in the 193-member General Assembly.
El-Sonni emphasized the widespread popularity of football, also known as soccer, as the world’s most widely played and followed sport. He highlighted its universal appeal, being enjoyed by people of all ages in various settings for both recreation and competition. The sport transcends national, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries, serving as a common language that unites people worldwide.
Dennis Francis, the president of the General Assembly, expressed his approval of the resolution, noting that football, like other sports, promotes values such as camaraderie, teamwork, fair play, and tolerance. He acknowledged the role of sports, including football, in fostering peace and solidarity across the globe. This recognition of football’s significance highlights the positive impact sports can have on society.