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Only the men's side of the football at the Olympic Games is restricted to U-23 players
The 2024 Olympic Games are rapidly approaching, and athletes are finalising their preparations for Paris.
Among the most intriguing sports at this year's event will be the men's football tournament, where new champions will be crowned after Brazil, gold medal winners at each of the last two Olympics, failed to qualify.
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Unlike the women's football tournament, the men's event will feature U-23 squads, with each team allowed only three slots for overaged players. But where does the need for this unique age restriction come from?
Why men's Olympic football is an U-23 tournament
The primary reason for the U-23 format in men's Olympic football is to avoid competition with the FIFA World Cup. Since its inception, the World Cup has been the dominant men's international football competition, and FIFA aims to ensure that it remains uncontested in this top spot.
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By restricting the age of participants in the Olympics, the tournament remains distinct and does not overshadow the World Cup.
Additionally, clubs often do not permit their players to participate in both the Euros or Copa America and the Olympics, as was the case with France’s Kylian Mbappe, who had to miss the Olympics, while Barcelona and Spain’s Pau Cubarsi skipped the Euros.
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The Olympics are not included in FIFA's international calendar, which designates specific windows throughout the season when clubs must release players for national team duty. This calendar covers major competitions and qualifiers, but not the Olympics, ultimately allowing clubs to decide the fate of players looking to compete.
History of football at the Olympic Games
The history of Olympic football also contributes to its current format. In the 1930s, football was not included in the 1932 Olympics, and when it returned in 1936, it was an amateur competition. By the time Olympic football transitioned back to a professional event, FIFA had already established the World Cup as the premier international football competition.
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During the 1980s, European and South American teams faced restrictions on fielding professionals who had participated in the World Cup, while other countries could bring their best players. This imbalance led to the establishment of the U-23 rule in 1992, creating a more level playing field and preserving the World Cup's status.
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Although the age restriction means that some of the world's biggest stars will not be competing, the U-23 rule allows the Olympics to maintain its uniqueness while still showcasing emerging talent.
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