Prominent figures in global men’s and women’s football have embraced informal ambassadorial roles to promote sustainability, gender equality, inclusivity, and human rights. Announced on Monday, the new cohort includes league and cup-winning manager Carlo Ancelotti, Women’s Super League and Serie A champion Eni Aluko, Inter Milan legend Javier Zanetti, and exiled Afghan Women’s National Team player Khalida Popal.
Football: The World’s Most Popular and Accessible Sport
The scale of football makes it a unique communication platform, reaching people across diverse geographies, generations, and communities. At the launch of the ‘Football for the Goals’ (FFTG) initiative in 2022, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed stated, “The United Nations recognizes the powerful voice of football within the global community and its role in raising awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the game’s popularity.” Mohammed added, “Football is not only the world’s most popular sport, but it is also the most accessible.”
Celebrating World Football Day
The FFTG Champions were revealed on World Football Day, celebrated annually on May 25. This date was chosen to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament held in Paris at the 1924 Summer Olympics, which saw representation from all regions. The UN General Assembly, in a resolution adopted in May 2024, established World Football Day, acknowledging football’s global reach and impact on peace and diplomacy, and recognizing its ability to create space for cooperation. Football’s worldwide popularity and accessibility make it a powerful platform for public relations on a wide range of issues, from climate action, health, and education to inclusivity and gender equality. The FFTG Champions program embodies this spirit.
