In France or Europe, is soccer called football?

Jul, 12 2023

The Intrigue of Soccer and Football

In the world of sports, soccer and football are two terms that often cause confusion. While in America, football refers to a completely different sport involving touchdowns and field goals, in many parts of the world, football is the term used to describe what Americans call soccer. This distinction often leads to the question, is soccer called football in France or Europe?

Understanding the Terms: Soccer and Football

Before we dive into the specifics of how soccer is referred to in France and Europe, it's important to understand the terminology. Soccer, as it's known in America, is a sport played by two teams of eleven players with a spherical ball. It is played on a rectangular field with a goal at each end. The objective is to score by getting the ball into the opposing goal.

Football: A Global Perspective

The term football, however, has a more global application. In most parts of the world, football is the term used to describe the game of soccer. This is because the sport is played primarily with the feet and the ball, hence the term 'football'. In fact, the International Federation of Football Association (FIFA), the sport's global governing body, uses the term football in its name.

Football in Europe

In Europe, the term football is widely used to refer to the sport known as soccer in America. This is due to the long history and tradition of the sport in Europe, where it is one of the most popular sports. In countries like Spain, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom, you'll hear the term football used exclusively to refer to this sport.

France and the Term Football

So, what about France? In France, the term football is also the common term used to refer to the sport. The French national football team, known as 'Les Bleus', is a testament to this. They compete in international competitions under the banner of football, not soccer.

Why the Difference in Terminology?

The difference in terminology between soccer and football can be traced back to historical and cultural differences between America and the rest of the world. In America, the term football was already used to refer to a different sport, which led to soccer being used as the term for the sport known globally as football.

The Global Influence of Football

Despite the difference in terminology, the global influence of football (or soccer) is undeniable. It is the most popular sport in the world, and it has a significant cultural impact in many countries, including France and other European nations. From the World Cup to local leagues, the sport brings people together in a shared passion for the game.

Conclusion: Soccer or Football?

To conclude, whether you call it soccer or football largely depends on where in the world you are. In France and the rest of Europe, the sport is referred to as football. However, no matter what you call it, the sport remains a beloved and celebrated part of culture and society around the world.

Football: A Universal Language

Ultimately, whether you call it soccer or football, the game remains the same. It's a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together. So, whether you're in France cheering for 'Les Bleus', in Spain supporting 'La Roja', or in America rooting for the 'USMNT', remember that we're all fans of the same beautiful game.