Nelson Mandela’s Greatest Football Moments and Quotes

According to the world’s soccer governing body, FIFA, Mandela was instrumental in securing the 2010 World Cup for South Africa. His joy was palpable when South Africa’s bid triumphed over Egypt and Morocco.

MANDELA’S WORDS WHEN SA WAS AWARDED THE 2010 FIFA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

“When we were on Robben Island, the only access to the World Cup was through the radio. Football was the only fun for prisoners,” Mandela said, according to FIFA.com.

“I feel like a 15 year old young man.

“I want to thank you for your courage and support against racism at a time when many were hesitant. Thank you for making Africa a cornerstone of FIFA’s activities.

“Sport has the power to inspire and unite people. In Africa, football is very popular and holds a special place in people’s hearts. That is why it is so important that the 2010 World Cup will be held on the African continent for the first time. We feel privileged and humbled that South Africa has been given this unique honour to be the African host country.

“Who could doubt that sport is a crucial window for the dissemination of fair play and justice? After all, fair play is a value that is essential to sport.”

MANDELA MEETING SIR ALEX FERGUSON

Mandela warmly welcomed Manchester United on their first tour of South Africa in 1993.

Ferguson, then manager of the Red Devils, said: “(The meeting) lasted 20 minutes but for me it lasted a lifetime, it was fantastic,” he told The Sun.

“The remarkable thing about Nelson Mandela was his complete lack of bitterness about his 27-year imprisonment.”

MANDELA’S SPECIAL BOND WITH PELE

In 1971, Pelé was reportedly denied entry upon arrival at Johannesburg airport by South African authorities enforcing apartheid policies. The incident led to him vowing not to return to South Africa until Nelson Mandela was released from prison.

After 1994, they met and developed a strong relationship.

When Mandela died, Pele said: “my friend and my idol.”

“He was my companion in the fight for the people’s cause and for world peace,” Pelé added. “Let’s continue his work. He was one of the most influential people in my life.”

MEETING WITH OTHER FOOTBALL ICONS

Football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Samuel Eto’o were all very happy when they met Nelson Mandela.

FOOTBALL CLUBS PAY TRIBUTE TO NELSON MANDELA