For some footballers, the roar of the crowd wasn’t enough — they wanted to change the game beyond the pitch. From scoring goals to making laws, several football stars have traded jerseys for suits, moving from stadiums to state houses.
While fans remember them for iconic goals and unforgettable moments, these players found new ways to serve — leading, reforming, and sometimes shaking up the political scene.
Here’s a look at football icons who turned their fame into political force.
1. Andriy Shevchenko
Ukraine’s Andriy Shevchenko, once a Ballon d’Or-winning striker for AC Milan and Chelsea, switched from football to politics after retirement in 2012. Joining the Ukraine Forward Party, he proved that leadership and passion go far beyond the pitch.
2. George Weah
Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner, George Weah, rose from Monrovia’s streets to become Liberia’s President in 2018. His journey from football hero to head of state remains one of the most inspiring stories in sports and politics.
3. Romário
Brazil’s Romário, who led his nation to World Cup victory in 1994, entered politics in 2014 as a senator. Known for fighting corruption and defending disability rights, he continues to score points for social justice.
4. Lilian Thuram
France’s World Cup winner Lilian Thuram didn’t run for office but became a leading voice against racism through his foundation. His advocacy proves that political change can happen off the field too.
5. Hakan Şükür
Turkey’s top scorer, Hakan Şükür, became a lawmaker in 2011 under the AK Party, but political tensions and links to a controversial cleric forced him into exile. His rise and fall show the risks of mixing fame and politics.
6. Sol Campbell
England’s Sol Campbell took his leadership off the pitch, joining the Conservative Party and running for London Mayor in 2015. Though unsuccessful, he remains vocal on national issues like housing and race.
7. Cuauhtémoc Blanco
Mexico’s Cuauhtémoc Blanco brought his bold energy from football to politics. After becoming mayor of Cuernavaca in 2015, he rose to governor of Morelos in 2018, still adored for his fearless style.
8. Kakha Kaladze
Former AC Milan defender Kakha Kaladze made a smooth shift into Georgian politics. Joining the ruling party in 2012, he became Tbilisi’s Mayor in 2017, turning teamwork and discipline into leadership.
9. Pelé
The legendary Pelé didn’t stop at football fame. As Brazil’s Sports Minister, he introduced the “Pelé Law” to curb corruption in sports. His lifelong push for youth and education made him a true global statesman.
10. Zico
Brazil’s Zico, known for his midfield magic, ran for FIFA President in 2015 after years in football administration. Though he didn’t win, his dedication to sports reform shows his passion never left the game.
