Liberia — Football

Football is the most popular sport in Liberia and holds a special place in the nation's identity, largely thanks to George Weah, the only African player to win the FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or. The LFA First Division features 15 clubs across 1 competitions.

Despite the challenges of civil war and economic hardship, Football has remained a constant source of pride and unity. The Lone Star, as the national team is known, continue to compete in African qualifying campaigns.

Football was introduced to Liberia in the 1930s and quickly became the country's most beloved sport. The Liberia Football Association was established in 1936 and joined FIFA in 1962.

George Weah's extraordinary career at AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, culminating in the 1995 Ballon d'Or, put Liberian football on the world map. Weah later became President of Liberia in 2018, demonstrating the deep connection between football and national life.

The Liberia Football Association (LFA) governs football in the country. Founded in 1936, it is a member of CAF and FIFA. The LFA manages the domestic league, national teams, and development programmes.

The Liberian football pyramid has two main tiers, with the Premier League at the top. The league has undergone several restructurings, particularly following the civil wars that disrupted competition for extended periods.

LISCR FC and Mighty Barrolle are among the most prominent clubs in Liberian football. Mighty Barrolle, founded in 1940, is one of the country's oldest and most supported clubs. Invincible Eleven and LPRC Oilers are also historically significant.

Liberia has participated in the Africa Cup of Nations on multiple occasions, with George Weah leading the team during their strongest period in the 1990s. The country has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup despite several close attempts during Weah's playing career.