Embed from Getty Images

After retiring from football in 1977, Pelé concentrated on using his fame to work for causes he believed in, ranging from world peace to international children’s rights and poverty alleviation.

In 1994 Pelé was appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, a role that recognizes people that wield incredible influence to contribute to world peace and security by promoting international collaboration.

Continue reading “Pelè and his historical involvement for world peace, international children rights and poverty alleviation” →

Embed from Getty Images

The origin of this dynamic is vastly driven by historic socioeconomic division. Even the success of Just Fontaine and the national team in the late 1950’s did not upend this prejudice. There remained an overriding sentiment that academia should take precedence over sports interests.

This seems ironic given the fact that both the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championships were created by the French. Like Jules Rimet and the World Cup, the European Championship itself was proposed by a French gentleman by the name of Henri Delaunay in 1927. The tournament began in 1958, three years following Delaunay’s death in 1955. The trophy still bears his name today. 

Continue reading “France’s relationship with sports, specifically football, has always been a bit disjointed as acedemia played their part” →

Embed from Getty Images

Gullit started off as a street footballer in Amsterdam, and by the time he was 16, he had made his debut for HFC Haarlem in the Dutch first division.

The majestic Dutchman dominated in an era defined by great defenders, and he paved the way for an entire generation of world-class offensive players. 

Continue reading “Ruud Gullit was incredibly talented and versatile, often regarded among the best players to have ever played the game.” →