The global celebration follows a high-energy event hosted by the UN General Assembly on May 19. Co-organized by Bahrain, Libya, and Tajikistan—with support from Austria, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, and Rwanda—the gathering featured UN leaders and special guest FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

The international day marks a significant milestone. May 25, represents the 100^th anniversary of the first international football tournament in history to feature representation from all regions, which took place during the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

To honor this legacy, the General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/78/281 on May 7, 2024, officially proclaiming May 25 as World Football Day.

In the official text UN issued, the General Assembly acknowledges that "the global reach of football and its impact in various spheres, including commerce, peace and diplomacy, and recognizing that football creates a space for cooperation."

Beyond recreation, football operates as a universal language that exceeds national, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries.

The UN resolution recognizes "the fundamental role" of Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), alongside regional and national soccer federations, in promoting the game as a tool for development.

The UN emphasizes that the sport serves as a vital platform for advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, both on and off the field. By breaking down barriers between diverse communities, it fosters space for tolerance, respect, and mutual understanding.

The UN encourages all member states, international organizations, academia, civil society, and the private sector to align with national priorities "and to disseminate the advantages of football for all, including through educational and public awareness-raising activities."