On May 26, the world of football will come together for the inaugural World Football Giving Day, a shared moment of giving back. This groundbreaking initiative is supported by over 100 organizations worldwide, including prominent figures such as Jurgen Klopp, Juan Mata, and Vivianne Miedema, as well as partners like adidas and Right to Dream.
The idea behind this movement is to bring people together, transcending global divisions, and to encourage participation and donations, especially in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Powered by Common Goal, an initiative launched by Mata in 2017 where football figures pledge to donate one percent of their salaries, World Football Giving Day aims to build on the spirit of collective action and social impact. Common Goal's CEO, Mary Connor, emphasizes the power of football to shape the world positively, particularly for young people and communities.
With millions of dollars in aid being reduced and nearly half of non-profits facing unstable funding, Connor stresses the need for action, not just from players, but from everyone who loves the game. World Football Giving Day is about providing a moment for billions of people to come together and make a difference.
Connor, a former professional athlete, understands the unifying power of football, having experienced it firsthand in various countries. She highlights the potential of football to challenge assumptions, address social issues like teen pregnancy and gender-based violence, and inspire positive change. As the world feels more divided than ever, Connor believes that football can remind us of our shared humanity.
This summer, with the launch of World Football Giving Day, marks a pivotal moment, aiming to become an annual tradition that mobilizes resources and unifies the global football community. To take action, visit the World Football Giving Day website to donate to registered non-profits or find ways to give back locally or globally.