Whilst football-type games have been played around the world for centuries, it wasn’t until the 16th century that the game developed into something approaching the style we now recognize In 1581 a pamphlet was published which not only praised the health benefits of ‘footeball’ but also suggested the use of referees and coaches. It also provided the earliest evidence of organised team football as opposed to the free-for-all ‘mob’ football that had been played up until then.
The world’s first football club to play using association rules was founded in 1857 and 6 years later the English FA was formed. The rules they set down marked the difference between football and rugby. By 1876 American football had its own rules as the differences between English and American football became apparent. With the introduction of professional players the games changed and became more competitive. 1930 saw the first World Cup, held in Uruguay, indicating just how popular English style football had become.
Both types of football have their dedicated followers who pay to watch the game, buy the strips and subscribe to sports channels to keep up to date. The financial impact of this has led to the clubs themselves being worth millions, with Real Madrid being the richest football club in the world. Football has now become a worldwide business, with advertising deals generating enormous revenues. Top players can earn huge amounts of money from sponsorship deals on top of their outrageous club salaries. The highest paid footballer is currently Barcelona’s Lionel Messi, but his millions pale into comparison with the NFL’s top player, who commands a huge $49 million.
Football has certainly come a long way since it was first played around 2000BCE. Whilst the skills of the players have definitely improved, the havoc caused by some of the supporters probably hasn’t changed much since 1314.