Last Monday (October 10) Michael Sheen was announced as a new Homeless World Cup Champion along with Cristina Rodlo, Hero Fiennes Tiffin and Honey Thaljieh. The tournament will return in 2023 and they will be supporting the Foundation across the next 12 months.
Mel Young, Founder and President of the Homeless World Cup, said:
“The Homeless World Cup brings a sense of purpose to people who may feel like they’ve lost theirs and helps inspire them to change their lives. Today’s exciting announcement is the first of many as we aim to confirm the host country and city for the tournament very soon.
“We are delighted to announce the signing of four global superstars with a love of the beautiful game who have joined our Squad to further support us with our vision for a world without homelessness.
“Cristina, Hero, Honey and Michael are fanatical about making a difference and supporting the work we do across the year, opening up discussions about this global issue. We are delighted to have them on board as we gear up for a busy and exciting 12-months with the return of our tournament and the continued good work we are doing with our global 70+ Homeless World Cup Member Countries.”
Michael said:
“The Homeless World Cup in Cardiff, 2019, was one of the proudest and most humbling experiences I’ve witnessed and been a part of for a very long time. I want that feeling back and I couldn’t be happier to have joined the Homeless World Cup as a Champion.
“I want to give back to the players and the tournament. I want to see and hear all the inspiring stories that this wonderful event creates. I can’t believe we haven’t had another tournament since 2019, I’m excited to see what the next year has in store for the Homeless World Cup and everyone involved.”
He also did a Q&A in which he explains he’s become a HWC Champion and talks about his love of football and ending homelessness:
When did your love of football begin?
On the street, in the park, playtimes at school. Every waking hour, every possible chance. Then in kit with proper boots. Name in the paper. Wanting to be Keegan. Wanting to be Toshack. Match Of The Day. The Big Match. Panini stickers. Until it was too dark to see the ball. 10 more minutes…
Why are you becoming a Homeless World Cup Champion?
The Homeless World Cup provides an incredible platform for those players who have faced so much in their lives, they get to demonstrate not only their skill and passion for the beautiful game but also tell their story. They show the public that there is so much more to homelessness. I want to be a part of something truly inspiring that makes a real difference to people’s lives – and that’s what the Homeless World Cup does.
How do we end homelessness?
Firstly we have to decide if we’re just managing it or actually trying to solve it. Also by understanding it’s more than getting people into buildings. There has to be proper support available. And to look at what was achieved during the pandemic and ask why there can’t be the same sense of urgency and motivation at any other time.
If you could wake up with the skills of any footballer, past or present, whose skills would you adopt?
After Kevin Keegan, Glen Hoddle became my football hero. Those awe-inspiring long passes! And of course who wouldn’t want to play with the passion of Gareth Bale with a Welsh jersey on his chest. So a mixture of all of them please.
Tell us something people might not know about you.
I have met Pele!