The World Cup is the greatest football extravaganza in the world. The governing body, the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was founded in Paris on 21 May 1904. Football is today a popular game throughout the world.

The World Cup trophy is made of gold and is known as Jules Rimet Cup after Jules Rimet, honorary president of FIFA from 1921 to 1954. The Federation inaugurated the world congress of 1928 and it was decided to have a world championship every four years.

The first World Cup was held in Uruguay in 1930 when Uruguay won the trophy. Three wins have been achieved by Brazil in 1958, 1962 and 1970 and by Italy in 1934, 1938 and 1982. Brazil uniquely have taken part in all 13 final tournaments.

The World Cup 1990 taking place in Italy from 8 June to 8 July 1990 is the 14th in the series since it was started in 1930. In all 24 countries are taking II part, and some of the most well known teams are participating in the tournament.

The UAE Football team is also participating in the World Cup 1990, the very first time, having qualified for Asia in the tournaments held in Singapore. The UAE Football Association joined FIFA only 18 years ago, and has succeeded in gaining a place on the Football International map. It is a great honour for i the UAE that its team, considered the youngest in the world, is participating in world class football. It will give the country s players valuable experience.