Former Liberian President and football legend George Manneh Weah has called for a FIFA World Cup free from racism, urging the global football community to continue promoting unity, respect, and human dignity through the sport.
Speaking at a FIFA event at its Arena in New York, Weah, who serves as chairman of FIFA’s Players Panel, praised efforts aimed at eliminating racism from football and creating a more inclusive environment for players and supporters worldwide.
“We have an obligation to do this not just for ourselves, but for the sake of humanity,” Weah said, emphasizing the responsibility of football stakeholders to combat discrimination at all levels of the game.
The only African player to win both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards said football remains a powerful tool for bringing people together regardless of race, nationality, or background. Reflecting on his playing career, Weah acknowledged that despite his remarkable success with top European clubs, he never had the opportunity to play in a FIFA World Cup because Liberia failed to qualify during his era.
“Sometimes you don’t have it all,” he said. “You must do what you can and encourage others to lead.” Weah noted that his commitment to representing Liberia throughout his career was a decision rooted in loyalty to his country, even though it meant missing football’s biggest stage.
The football icon also addressed the international career of his son, Timothy Weah, who is expected to represent the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament will be Timothy’s second World Cup appearance after featuring for the U.S. Men’s National Team at Qatar 2022.
George Weah urged critics to respect his son’s decision to play for the United States rather than Liberia, stressing that athletes must be allowed to make personal choices regarding their international futures.
Timothy Weah has repeatedly expressed pride in both his Liberian heritage and American upbringing and has become a key member of the U.S. national team.
Weah’s remarks come as FIFA intensifies its anti-racism campaign ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His message highlighted the belief that football’s greatest impact extends beyond competition and into the promotion of equality, respect, and unity around the world.
