Fifa World Cup 2014

2014 FIFA World Cup – A Global Football Celebration

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is hosting the 20th FIFA World Cup from 12 June to 13 July 2014 in Brazil. This month-long spectacle, celebrated once every four years, brings together the finest footballing nations in a thrilling contest of skill, endurance, and passion. The World Cup remains one of the most anticipated sporting events across the globe.

About FIFA

Founded in May 1904 in Paris, FIFA began with seven founding members: France, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain (represented by Madrid FC), Sweden and Switzerland. Today, it is governed under Swiss law and headquartered in Zurich.

With 209 member associations, FIFA is committed to the continued development of football worldwide. Its organizational structure consists of:

• Congress – the legislative body
• Executive Committee – the executive authority
• General Secretariat – the administrative arm
• Committees – supporting and advisory groups

More than 310 staff members from over 35 countries work towards fulfilling FIFA’s goal of constant improvement of the sport.

The World Cup Legacy

FIFA has been responsible for organizing the World Cup every four years. The inaugural tournament took place in Uruguay in 1930, inspired by Jules Rimet’s vision of bringing together the world’s strongest national teams. The competition was held thrice in the 1930s—Uruguay, Italy, and France—before a 12-year suspension during World War II.

The World Cup resumed in 1950, hosted again by Brazil, and since then has visited 15 different countries across all continents, growing in prestige and popularity to become the world’s premier footballing event.

2014 World Cup, Brazil – Football With a Purpose

The 2014 FIFA World Cup stands out not only as a sporting event but also as a platform to promote environmental awareness. In keeping with FIFA’s mission—“Develop the game, touch the world, build a better future”—Brazil has emphasized ecology and sustainability.

The official mascot, Fuleco, combines the words “futebol” and “ecologia”, symbolizing both the spirit of the sport and a commitment to protecting the environment.

This edition features 32 teams, grouped into eight groups (A to H), each containing four teams. The tournament progresses through:

• Group Stage
• Round of 16
• Quarter-Finals
• Semi-Finals
• Final on 13 July 2014

India Post Commemorative Stamps

To celebrate the opening of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, India Post is releasing a set of four stamps and a miniature sheet showcasing dynamic moments of football action along with the mascot Fuleco. These stamps serve as a vibrant tribute to football enthusiasts across India and the world, marking the grandeur of this global event.