The offers the opportunity for talented players from across the globe to share the same spotlight. As the world comes together to celebrate a common love for football, there is an opportunity to reflect on important moments in life and in sport and hear from loved ones.
FIFA is bringing these moments to the forefront through its series 'Letters that Unite."
In the lead up to first game at the FIFA World Cup™, Gervane Kastaneer received an emotional birthday letter from his father.
"Dad, you know I am not someone who talks a lot, but you are my everything," Kastaneer said, addressing his father directly, after reading his letter. "We've made it. Not just me, but you as well. And that's it. Thank you very much, Dad."
In 2017, Kastaneer was poised to move from ADO Den Haag to Mainz. His career was trending upward and he seemed ready to fulfil his evident promise. In a match against PEC Zwolle he took a ball to the eye, which caused long-term vision problems and led to a spell on the sidelines.
"People only saw an eye injury, but we knew the reality behind it," wrote Kastaneer's father. "The pain, the uncertainty, the fear, the tears, the endless drives to Germany. Week after week, just to be with you. Because we felt that you needed us. Because family stays close precisely when life suddenly turns dark."
The Curaçao star overcame those troubling times thanks to support from his family and his faith in God, and is now set to debut at the World Cup just days after turning 30. "Together we cried, together we laughed. But giving up was never an option," wrote the forward's father. "Now you are going to the 2026 World Cup with our island, Curaçao. Who would have ever thought that?"
In North America, Kastaneer will be playing for his nation and to continue making his father proud. Watch the video above to see his full reaction to this moving letter.
Sources: FIFA Official
