Lionel Messi becomes Unicef goodwill ambassador
15 March 2010
Argentinean footballer
Lionel Messi has been named a global goodwill ambassador for
children's charity Unicef.
The sportsman, who was named FIFA world player of the year in
2009, took on the role last week (12 March), joining the likes of
Orlando Bloom, Danny Glover and Sir Roger Moore as a supporter of
the non-profit.
FC Barcelona, Messi's current club, has featured the Unicef logo
on its shirt since 2006 to promote it support for the cause of
children's rights and protection.
He commented: "Football has given me a lot of joy and
opportunities and I feel grateful to Unicef for this chance to give
support to children."
Joan Laporta, FC Barcelona president, added that the club is
proud of the player for his "sensitivity to the plight of
children".
Messi will begin his work for the charity by making a trip to
Argentina, where the Leo Messi Foundation offers support for
children trying to access healthcare and education.
Unicef UK raised £42.9 million for the charity's work with
children worldwide in 2008.
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