Mario Balotelli

1.         Why is this person important?

Mario Balotelli is a professional Italian soccer player who currently plays as a striker for the soccer club AC Milan and the national Italian team. He has previously played for Inter Milan and Manchester City, winning the Italian league championship three times and has won the English league championship once. He also lead the Italian national team to a second place finish in the 2012 UEFA European Championship.  His stand against racism in soccer has been revolutionary earning him a spot on the cover of the renowned sports magazine Sports Illustrated. He is one of the most iconic soccer players in the world and a huge part of Italian sports.  

2.         Why did you choose this person? How does her/his life relate to you?

I chose Mario Balotelli because he is one if not the most influential figures in sports. I also love soccer and see him as one of the faces of the sport. His stance against racism greatly relates to me as it an issue that I also find very controversial. He is an inspiration to me on and off the field.  

3.         If she/he had never existed, would the world be different from how we know it now? Why?

If Balotelli had never existed the world of sports would be much different. The soccer clubs of Inter Milan and Manchester City would not have won those championships they did with Balotelli as he was a key component on the teams, often scoring many goals and providing assists to lead the teams to victory. Also, his stance on racism has been so influential that if not for him, racism in soccer would still be moderately, though not excessively, tolerated. He was the first to take drastic measures to end it, something that has helped shape sports today.    

4.         If you could meet that person, what would you ask her/him?

If I could meet Balotelli I would ask him of where he finds the courage to do what he does. He has walked off the field and refused to play when he hears racist chants, even if they’re directed at the opposing team. I would like to know how he is able to put his playing career at risk in order to stand up for what he believes in, something always revered but never easy to do.

5.         Do you think the fact this person was Italian played a role in his/her achievement?

I do believe Balotelli being Italian has influenced. If not for him being Italian, soccer may not have been as much of a presence in his life as it usually is in Italians living in Italy as soccer is the biggest sport there; therefore, he wouldn't have been able to make his presence known in the world. Also, the fact that he is Italian has also played a role in his stance against racism as he is able to fight any racism directed towards Italians or any other race.