FOOTBALL -NOT ONLY A GAME 

This splendid exhibition reminds us in many ways about the true nature of this beautiful game.  

There are not many communal experiences left in modern societies. Football can from time to time unite citizens of one nation or bring together people from different race, colour and religion. 

What is done on local level as volunteer social activity concludes in national or professional teams playing in front of huge global audiences. 

Football is an essential part of a European identity. The game was invented here and it is now more than ever our pride and deligth. That is why we, the Friends of Football in the European parliament, care so much about it.   

We would like football, as any other sport, to have a genuine partnership also with the European Union. 

We call on the Commission to recognise the special nature of football so that our game should not be run by politicians, businessmen or judges but under all circumstances maintain its unique social importance.  

(OPENING REMARKS OF Mr. Lasse Lehtinen at Musee du Cinquantenaire, June 5th, 2007)