The UN establishes May 25 as World Football Day

Soccer fans from all over the world will now have a day to celebrate the most popular sport on the planet year after year.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming May 25 as World Football Day.

The day commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first international tournament in history with representation from all regions of the planet, which took place on May 25, 1924, during the Paris Olympic Games, according to the resolution.

The 193 members of the General Assembly adopted the resolution by consensus with the hammering of President Dennis Francis, to the applause of the diplomats present in the room. The proposal was co-sponsored by more than 160 countries.

Libya’s ambassador to the UN, Taher El-Sonni, who presented the resolution, told the assembly: “Football, or as some call it, soccer, is the most played and followed sport in the world.”

But he stressed that the discipline is more than a simple game that is played among all ages in streets, towns and yards, for fun or for competitive purposes.

Because of its “unparalleled position” in the world of sports, El-Sonni continued, “soccer serves as a universal language spoken around the world, breaking down national, cultural and socioeconomic barriers.”

He added that it has become a “vital platform” to promote gender equality and social inclusion, “a common ground where individuals of different origins converge, promoting understanding, tolerance, respect and solidarity.”

It also recognizes the “fundamental role” of international football governing body FIFA, and the important role of national and regional federations, as well as relevant associations, in promoting the sport.

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

On May 25, the resolution “invites” all countries, UN agencies, international organizations, academic institutions, civil society and the private sector to celebrate World Football Day.