Sport commands a platform for fans around the world, not only for their entertainment but also as a means to tackle broader social problems such as racism, social exclusion and gender inequality.

In November 2022, EU Ambassador to Vietnam H.E. Georgio Aliberti met Vietnam Television (VTV) sports editor Mr Nguyen Quoc Khanh on the football field, for a quick match and a chat about how football is a sport that shares a core set of values and provides young people with role models.

They talked about the importance of football systems to nurture young players and support the inclusivity of women and girls, and build stronger communities.

‘Football - Your Inspiration’ is the second episode of the series FYI - Chat with EU Ambassador launched by the EU Delegation in Vietnam (EUD), in which a new guest is invited for casual discussion around topics that are front and centre in both the EU and Vietnam.

This episode aired in the backdrop of the FIFA World Cup 2022, where 13 of the teams hailed from the EU. A seasoned commentator on and avid fan of European football matches and teams, Mr Nguyen has his fondest memories of reporting in Europe and shared Ambassador Aliberti’s wishes for the successful future of football in Vietnam.

Sport is an important tool in cultural relations for the EU — and, with football fans across the nation — Vietnam is no exception.

Aspiring sport players and sport professionals in the EU and abroad could benefit from a range of policies and programmes such as Erasmus+, which promotes learning mobility of sport staff, as well as cooperation, quality, inclusion, creativity and innovation.

Stay tuned for further episodes of the FYI series via the EUD’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.