Football freestyling has created a world of it’s own off of it’s bigger cousin’s spinoff. During the 80’s and 90’s many South American players, like Maradona, were scrutinized for their skillful tricks with the ball, deemed useless by football pundits of the time. Fast forward to the 90’s and with the introduction of Ronaldinho into the European league spectrum, skillful moves with the ball became more accepted. With the Nike Joga Bonito campaign, tricks became the in thing.

 

Freestyling has allowed people to express themselves outside of 11-a side football and show their unique take on the game. Thousands of people worldwide have launched full time careers as freestylers through appearances, video gigs and sponsorships. Are you a skilled player looking to make a future in the world of freestyle football? Here’s your chance.

 

Starting May 18th, Red Bull will be hosting the online football freestyle competition. Taking place across all five continents, anyone with an arsenal of football tricks to flaunt can show their skills by submitting a video clip of them freestyling. This is an opportune time to participate given the global situation. All you need is a ball. 

 

Since 2008, the competition has sought out the most talented and creative freestylers in the world. This year, the competition is more inclusive than ever before. After the first round, 200 men and 60 women globally will be selected to go to the next round, putting their skills to the test to make it through all five rounds to the finals. Challenges after the first round will add more elements of creativity to the event, including trick execution and musicality.

 

Some of the most prolific footballers of all time are there to decide the winner from each gender; including Roberto Carlos, Gary Neville, Fabio Cannavaro, Edgar Davis, Luis “Nani” Almeida and Pavel Pardo. 

 

Here are the requirements to participate:

 

Must be 16 years or older

Videos must be no longer than 45 seconds, with the freestyle section lasting 30 seconds

The video must be unedited and be in a horizontal format 

Music is not allowed 

 

You can submit your entry on the Red Bull Street Style website or download the application.