Your first look at Gary Lineker’s new book – 50 Times Football Changed the World

The book

“For centuries, football has brought so much joy to so many, including myself, and I’m very pleased to be able to share these moments of joy with young football fans in this book. It’s been terrific fun looking back at such a wide-ranging collection of seismic soccer moments. Who knows, a certain tale from 2015/16 may get a mention…” – Gary Lineker

The non-fiction title is a collection championing 50 of Gary’s favourite, eye-opening, awe-inspiring and unforgettable football stories that have changed the game – and sometimes the world – forever. From times when ‘the beautiful game’ has united people against all the odds; to pioneering players that have used their massive platforms for good; and young footballers from non-league teams across the world who teach us important lessons about inclusion, compassion, and sportsmanship.

Throughout the book, Gary will be presenting ‘Game-Changer Awards’ to people whose actions both on and off the pitch shook the world.

The hardback gift book will feature black and white illustrations by Erica Salcedo. 

There will also be a limited number of signed copies available from Waterstones!

Pre-order now!

Order your copy now from the following retailers:

UK: Waterstones (Signed Hardback) | Waterstones | WH Smith (Signed Hardback) | WH Smith | Blackwells | Amazon

The authors

Gary Lineker OBE is a broadcaster and a former professional footballer. He holds England's record for goals in Men’s FIFA World Cup tournaments, with 10 scored. He has presented the flagship BBC football programme Match of the Day since the late 1990s.

Ivor Baddiel is a scriptwriter and author. He regularly writes for some of the biggest shows on British television including The BAFTAs, The X Factor and The National Television Awards. Ivor is also the co-creator of new ITV show Romeo and Duet, and the author of nineteen books for both children and adults.

The illustrator

Erica Salcedo illustrates from her peaceful hometown of Cuenca (Spain). She completed her fine arts degree at the UCLM (University of Castilla la Mancha) and then decided to continue her education, doing a Master’s degree in Graphic Design and Illustration at the UPV (Polytechnic University of Valencia). Since she graduated, she’s enjoyed working on many fun projects with top publishers across the world including the Kid Normal series by Greg James and Chris Smith, The Incredible Record Smashers by Jenny Pearson, Big Dreams, Little People: Georgia O’Keeffe by Isabel Sanchez Vegara.

50 Times Football Changed the World will be released on 13 October 2022.