A formal proposal has been submitted to FIFA calling for the creation of an Over-40 World Cup for retired international footballers. The idea, put forward by former Nigerian official Nosike Ogbuenyi, aims to give veteran stars a new global platform.

Ogbuenyi, a former spokesman for Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory Administration, said he submitted the plan through the Nigeria Football Federation secretariat in Abuja. He argues the tournament would allow fans to continue watching celebrated players long after their standard international careers end. "The introduction of the FIFA Over-40 World Cup will make the football-loving world continue to watch the best of all time on the field of play for a longer period," Ogbuenyi said.

Proposed format and stars

The competition would be restricted to players aged between 40 and 65 who have previously represented their countries at senior level. Ogbuenyi suggested it would provide a structured transition for players leaving the physical demands of top-level football.

He listed a host of global icons as potential attractions, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, Andrés Iniesta, and former Nigeria stars Jay-Jay Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu. The proposal was timed following Messi's international retirement earlier this month, which Ogbuenyi described as an auspicious moment to generate discussion.

Motivation and potential benefits

Ogbuenyi stated his motivation was to address how fans often lose track of legends after retirement. He believes the tournament could also promote fitness among former players, keep them in the public eye, and even generate revenue for FIFA through broadcasting and sponsorship.

"I am just writing as a football fan who wants the world to be happier through more football games entertainment," he explained, adding he makes no personal claims on the idea. The proposal remains an idea for consideration, and FIFA has not announced any plans to organise such an event. Brentford's next match is at home to Liverpool on 17 October.

More detail at Blueprint Newspapers