FIFA
Federation Internationale de Football Association, is the governing body of world soccer. Based in Zurich, it was founded in 1904 and is still in charge of the game.
What is the purpose of FIFA in Soccer?
The main purpose of FIFA is to bring the world of soccer together as one and to make it available to all cultures and lifestyles. The hosting of international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup has helped them connect the world of soccer globally.
As an organization FIFA doesn’t have any power to change the rules of soccer however they are responsible for making sure all FIFA tournaments and associations follow and understand the laws of the game.
What nations are associated with FIFA?
In 1904 the original founding nations were soccer teams from the associations of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
FIFA has now grown to include national soccer associations from all parts of the world. These are:
- AFC – The Asian Football Confederation.
- CAF – Confederation of African Football.
- CONCACAF – Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Football Association.
- CONMEBOL – Confederation of South American Football.
- OFC – Oceania Football Confederation.
- UEFA – Union of European Football Associations.
There are now 211 recognized national associations from the list above.