Abuja:Former Spokesman of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Nosike Ogbuenyi, has called on FIFA to introduce an Over-40 World Cup for retired football stars.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ogbuenyi submitted a proposal for the competition to FIFA via the Nigeria Football Federation secretariat. He believes the tournament would allow football fans worldwide to continue enjoying the skills of legendary players beyond their active careers.
Ogbuenyi highlighted that many talented Nigerian footballers, like Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu, become less visible after retiring. He suggested the competition should accommodate players aged 40 to 65 and offer benefits to footballers, fans, and the game.
He further stated the tournament would promote fitness among retired players, keep legends in the public eye, and provide additional income sources. It would also enable former professionals to mentor younger players and contribute to football development.
Ogbuenyi proposed that only players who represented their countries at the senior international level and have retired from senior international football should be eligible. He emphasized the financial viability for FIFA, with potential revenue from broadcasting rights and corporate partnerships.
He explained that Lionel Messi’s reported retirement was an opportune moment to draw attention to the proposal, first conceived after Okocha’s retirement. Ogbuenyi expressed hope that FIFA would consider the proposal as a valuable innovation for the sport.