About ISFHS – International Sport Federation History and Statistics

The IFFHS (International Federation of Football History & Statistics) was founded on 27 March 1984 in Leipzig, Germany, by its founding president, Alfredo Pöge. Since its inception, the IFFHS has established itself as a global authority in the field of history, statistics and awards relating exclusively to football.

Thanks to a rigorous and independent methodology, the IFFHS has built up unique international recognition over the decades. Sports journalists, historians, experts and statisticians from many countries have joined the organisation to participate in a common mission: to preserve the memory of the sport, highlight achievements and recognise the great figures of world football with objectivity, integrity and respect.

Building on this experience and international credibility, the ISFHS was established to extend this vision to all sporting disciplines.
The ISFHS’s objective is, therefore, to replicate, adapt and develop the IFFHS’s founding model across the entire global sporting landscape whilst upholding the same values of neutrality, historical preservation, recognition of sporting merit and statistical rigour.

But the ISFHS is not limited to the history and sporting achievements of the sport. The Federation also promotes an educational, cultural and humanistic vision of sport, firmly believing that sport is a universal language capable of conveying positive values, bringing people together and inspiring new generations.

Today, more than 120 countries are represented within the Federation’s international network.

Preserving the history of world sport

The ISFHS’s primary objective is to preserve and pass on the history of world sport across all disciplines.

The Federation collects, archives and promotes texts, statistics, images, records and outstanding performances from national and international competitions across all continents, from the dawn of modern sport in the 19th century to the present day.

Through this mission, the ISFHS aims to build a universal memory of sport, accessible to enthusiasts, the media, researchers and future generations.

Recognising sporting excellence

The Federation’s second objective is to establish annual international and continental rankings based on transparent and objective statistical criteria.

These rankings cover, in particular:

  • teams,
  • athletes,
  • coaches,
  • referees,
  • as well as leading figures in world sport.

The best in each category receive international awards inspired by the model developed by the IFFHS over several decades, now recognised worldwide for its credibility, integrity and the respect it commands among those involved in sport.

A human and inclusive vision of sport

Beyond its historical and statistical remit, the ISFHS also aims to develop educational and community-focused initiatives for younger generations.

The Federation believes that sport should not only celebrate achievements and records but also serve as a driving force for knowledge-sharing, education, inclusion and hope.

This vision is embodied in particular through the development of international projects aimed at children and the promotion of the universal values of sport: respect, fair play, sharing, pushing oneself to the limit and unity between cultures.

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