RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The International Football Federation (FIFA) has brought together leading names in world soccer in a video to honor health professionals and all those who are in some way contributing to the fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic; the sport’s governing body describes them as “heroes of humanity”.
The social campaign features 50 players in their homes in a standing ovation for the people involved in the fight against Covid-19. Among the Brazilians are Cafu, Kaká, Marta, Pelé, Roberto Carlos, and Ronaldo Fenômeno.
To FIFA, soccer king Pelé talked about the role of these professionals. “I am proud to show my support to all the people who are working tirelessly to defend our way of life against the coronavirus. It is an invisible enemy that has attacked our lives, but thanks to the courage and dedication of health professionals around the world, we will have a chance”.
The only Brazilian woman who was part of the video, Marta, also expressed her gratitude to the organization. “We wanted to send a message that shows that soccer is united and supports the doctors, nurses and other key workers who are helping all of us through the coronavirus at this difficult time”.
“Similarly, the coronavirus will not leave without a fight and each one of us must also respect the rules set by each national health authority. Together and united, we will win”.
The campaign featured world-renowned athletes and former athletes: Holger Badstuber, David Beckham, Bhaichung Bhutia, Lucy Bronze, Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Casillas, Deyna Castellanos, Giorgio Chiellini, Charlyn Corral, El Hadji Diouf, Youri Djorkaeff, Han Duan, Magdalena Eriksson, Samuel Eto’o, Pernille Harder, Javier Hernández, Luis Hernández, Harry Kane, Carli Lloyd, Harry Maguire, Diego Maradona, Vivianne Miedema, Ajara Nchout, Owen, Özil, Norma Palafox, Pavel Pardo, Park Ji-Sung, Piqué, Alexia Putellas, Sergio Ramos, Nicole Reigner, Wendie Renard, James Rodríguez, Schweinsteiger, Virginia Torrecilla, Yaya Touré, Marco van Basten, Daniëlle van de Donk, Ivan Vicelich, Arturo Vidal, Javier Zanetti, and Zidane.