World Football Day 2024, Date, History and Significance

In 2024, the world marks the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament involving teams from all regions, held on May 25, 1924, during the Summer Olympic Games in Paris. To honour this milestone, the United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution A/RES/78/281 on May 7, 2024, proclaiming May 25 as World Football Day.

The Resolution and Its Significance

The resolution recognizes “the global reach of football and its impact in various spheres, including commerce, peace, and diplomacy.” It highlights how football creates a space for cooperation and acknowledges the fundamental role of Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and regional and national soccer federations in promoting the game.

The resolution encourages all countries to support football and other sports as tools to promote peace, development, and the empowerment of women and girls. It also urges the adoption of policies and programs to promote football and physical activities.

Global Observance of World Football Day

World Football Day invites all member states, organizations of the UN system, international organizations, academia, civil society, and the private sector to observe the day in line with national priorities. The aim is to disseminate the advantages of football through educational and public awareness-raising activities.

Why May 25th?

May 25th was chosen to commemorate the centenary of the first-ever international football tournament during the 1924 Paris Summer Olympics. This historic event marked a significant milestone in football history, making it the perfect date to celebrate the sport’s global appeal.

The UN Resolution Adoption

The resolution was enthusiastically embraced by the 193-member General Assembly, with over 160 countries co-sponsoring it. Libya’s UN Ambassador, Taher El-Sonni, introduced the resolution, emphasizing football’s role as a universal language that bridges divides of nationality, culture, and socio-economic status. El-Sonni highlighted football’s significance in promoting gender equality, social inclusion, unity, tolerance, and mutual respect.