World Football Legends Reflect on World Cup Triumphs, Emphasise the Power of Leadership and Teamwork at Dubai Summit
The closing session of the World Sports Summit in Dubai brought together six of the greatest football legends in history, each of whom has lifted the FIFA World Cup with their national teams. This exceptional panel focused on the core values of leadership, determination, and teamwork, exploring the paths that led them to the pinnacle of the sport.
Among the all-star lineup were Didier Deschamps of France, Cafu and Ronaldo from Brazil, Fabio Cannavaro from Italy, and Spain’s Carles Puyol and Andres Iniesta, with proceedings moderated by the Italian icon Alessandro Del Piero. Collectively, these legends have amassed a staggering 810 international appearances, 10 World Cup titles, 10 UEFA Champions League titles, 35 domestic league titles, and five Golden Boot awards—a testament to their excellence and longevity at the highest level.
Throughout the session, the stars agreed that personal values, alongside technical abilities, are foundational for building champions and inspiring the next generation. They highlighted that winning the World Cup was never a destination, but the result of a long journey marked by hard work and sacrifice.
Didier Deschamps reflected on his unique achievement of winning the World Cup both as a player in 1998 and as a coach in 2018. Deschamps stated, “the feeling of lifting the trophy remains the same despite the different roles,” and emphasized that “teamwork is the key to success,” recounting France’s 1998 victory as “a dream come true,” while underscoring the greater “focus and responsibility” required as a coach.
For Cafu, who captained Brazil’s victorious team in 2002, football is a way of life in his country. Cafu remarked that the 2002 Brazilian squad possessed complete confidence, rooted in unity and clear tactics, which set them apart from previous campaigns, particularly the challenges faced in the 1998 final.
Ronaldo shared his personal battle with a career-threatening injury ahead of the 2002 World Cup. He stressed that determination and a strong will enabled him to defy the odds, return to the pitch, and lead Brazil to the title, scoring eight goals in the process—a remarkable feat that remains a special memory for the legendary striker.
Italy’s Fabio Cannavaro, captain of the 2006 squad, discussed how Italy’s triumph was about more than just their famed defensive prowess—it was about having a well-rounded team and a coach who made the difference. Cannavaro highlighted that the 2006 generation “made the most of its final opportunity,” and expressed hope for Italy’s return to future World Cups after a thorough review of Italian football.
Carles Puyol, recalling Spain’s historic 2010 World Cup victory, attributed their success to team spirit and the cooperation between rival club players from Real Madrid and Barcelona, which created perfect chemistry within the squad. Andres Iniesta remembered his tournament-winning goal fondly, calling the 2010 title, “the greatest moment in Spain’s history,” and shared that the emotional legacy of that achievement still resonates deeply after 15 years.
The conversation at the World Sports Summit in Dubai showcased not only the personal journeys and accomplishments of these football legends but also the enduring values that define true greatness on and off the pitch.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
