FC Barcelona player Ronaldinho had the honour to receive a welcome usually reserved for the leaders of states in the United Nations headquarters in downtown Manhattan yesaterday. Barca superstar Ronaldinho signed an agreement to become the spokesman for the Development for Sport and Peace at the United Nations in New York on Friday to take on a leading role in international diplomacy. The press room was completely full, so journalist had to take place in the aisles to follow the press conference.


The Brazilian forward was met by Secretary General Kofi Annan and was signed up to become an ambassador for the organisation. Ronaldinho, an idol for many young football fans is proud to have commited himself for two years to mobilise young people to help fighting against poverty.
Ronaldinho will put himself completely at the disposal of the UN for a symbolic $ 1 per year.

Additionally, Ronnie will help to reach the targets set by the Millennium Goals campaign. The United Nations (UN) and FC Barcelona had already signed a collaboration agreement in May.


Ronaldinho proves that he is not only committed to football, but also to help for good causes and social matters. The Brazilian international was visibly touched and explained seriously his motivation to take on the challenge:

I am very, very happy and proud to take on this social challenge. Sport is a universal language without barriers. Football has given me a wonderful life and I believe that it is now my mission to give something back and help young people understand that power of sport can help make dreams become reality.

Barcelona caretaker president Sala i Martin expressed his feelings on the appointment of Ronaldinho as an ambassador for the UN. He believes that the appointment of Ronaldinho also proves that Barca is "More than a club". Barça´s former president Joan Laporta had already committed to give 0.7 per cent of FC Barcelona´s gross annual income to the UN charity. Sala i Martin said he was very proud that Ronaldinho is a Barca player and that the player will transmit the values of FC Barcelona around the world. He also believes that now many more people will understand that Barca "is more than a Club".