Top 10 Oldest Club In The World Still In Existence
Football, the world's preeminent and universally adored sport, transcends boundaries and cultures, uniting fans globally. With an industry worth billions and a fan base spanning every continent, football's allure lies not only in its current stature but also in its rich historical tapestry. This article delves into the annals of time to unearth the origins of football through an exploration of the top 10 oldest football clubs.
Dating back to 1857, the genesis of organized football is credited to Nathaniel Creswick and William Prest, who laid the groundwork with the creation of the Sheffield Rules. Sheffield FC, born from this pioneering spirit, is acknowledged by The FA and FIFA as the oldest football club, wielding a profound influence on the evolution of the game. As we navigate through time, we encounter clubs like Cambridge University AFC, Lima CFC, and Cray Wanderers, each contributing a unique chapter to football's expansive narrative.
Beyond the borders of England, this exploration extends to Hallam FC, the possessor of the world's oldest active football ground, and Notts County, a club entrenched in a rivalry with Nottingham Forest. Stoke City FC, Royal Engineers Association FC, Civil Service FC, and Wrexham FC round out this esteemed list, each with its distinct historical footprint. Join us on a journey through time as we unravel the roots of these football institutions, where passion and legacy converge on the field of play.
Oldest Club In The World Still In Existence
- Sheffield FC (1857)
- Cambridge University AFC (1857)
- Lima CFC (1859)
- Cray Wanderers (1860)
- Hallam FC (1860)
- Notts County (1862)
- Stoke City FC (1863)
- Royal Engineers Association FC (1863)
- Civil Service FC (1863)
- Wrexham FC (1864)
1. Sheffield FC (1857)
Sheffield Football Club, established in 1857 by Nathaniel Creswick and William Prest, holds the distinction of being recognized by both The FA and FIFA as the oldest football club globally. Pioneering the creation of the Sheffield Rules in the same year, this club's regulations marked the inception of official rules for football, influencing even The FA's laws.
Although Sheffield FC joined The FA in 1863, it retained its distinct rules until 1878. Notably, Sheffield FC and neighboring Hallam engage in a friendly match, possibly the world's oldest football fixture. In 2004, the club received the FIFA Order of Merit, a feat only previously achieved by Real Madrid, and was later inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2007.
2. Cambridge University AFC (1857)
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Founded between 1856-1857, as stated on the Cambridge University AFC website, the club's claim to antiquity relies on a copy of the Cambridge Rules titled 'The Laws of University Football Club' from 1856. If validated, this assertion could position Cambridge University AFC as possibly the oldest football club. The city of Cambridge has played a pivotal role in football history, with university footballers drafting the 'Cambridge Rules' in 1846, laying the groundwork for the modern game.
3. Lima CFC (1859)
Founded in 1859 by English immigrants, the Lima Cricket and Football Club stands as the oldest football club in both Peru and America. Located in the capital of Peru, it currently participates in the local league of San Isidro District. Operating as a multi-sports club for 156 years, Lima CFC boasts two national titles from over a century ago (1912 and 1914) in the Peruvian Primera Division. The club's inaugural recorded match took place on August 7, 1892. Notably, Lima CFC clinched three Liga Distral de San Isidro titles in 2007, 2008, and 2012, serving as a continual source of inspiration.
4. Cray Wanderers (1860)
Established between 1858 and 1860, Cray Wanderers Football Club is a semi-professional team rooted in London. Originating in St. Cray village, where workers engaged in casual football during their leisure hours, the club now competes in the Isthmian League Division One. With a 5,000-capacity home ground at Bromley's Hayes Lane, Cray Wanderers has woven a historical tapestry dating back to its humble beginnings in the mid-19th century.
5. Hallam FC (1860)
Established in 1860, Hallam FC holds a unique distinction with its home, Sandygate Road, recognized as the oldest active football ground globally, boasting a remarkable 211-year legacy. The club is credited with winning the inaugural Youdan Cup in 1867, considered the world's first cup competition. Although the trophy went missing for several years until its rediscovery in 1997, its historical significance remains. Hallam FC, founded in 1860, actively competes in the Northern Counties East League Division One within the English football system.
6. Notts County (1862)
Formed in 1862, Notts County FC calls Meadow Lane in Nottingham, built in 1910, its home. With a longstanding rivalry with Nottingham Forest, located adjacent to their ground, the 153-year-old club earned its last title in 2009-10 after securing a promotion. Currently participating in the National League, the fifth tier of the English football league system, Notts County continues to contribute to the rich football history.
7. Stoke City FC (1863)
Established in 1863, Stoke City FC holds the distinction of being the oldest football club in the Premier League. Currently competing in the EFL Championship, the club underwent a name change to Stoke City in 1925 following the transformation of Stoke-on-Trent into a city. From its humble beginnings as an amateur team in the local area to becoming a prominent member of the prestigious Premier League, Stoke City FC has traversed a remarkable journey.
8. Royal Engineers Association FC (1863)
Founded in 1863, the Royal Engineers Association FC represents the esteemed Royal Engineers of the British Army. With a storied history dating back 152 years, the club experienced its pinnacle in the 1870s. Notably, they secured victory in the FA Cup in 1875 and reached four of the first seven finals in the competition. Presently, the Royal Engineers Association FC is an integral part of the Army Football Association, contributing to the enduring legacy of military football.
9. Civil Service FC (1863)
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Established in 1863 in London, Civil Service FC holds the distinction of being the last surviving club among the original 11 that founded the English Football Association. With a rich historical legacy contributing to the growth of football in England, the club has actively participated in various competitions throughout its 152-year history. Currently, Civil Service FC is a proud member of the Amateur Football Association in England.
10. Wrexham FC (1864)
Wrexham FC, founded in 1864, stands as the oldest football club in Wales and holds the distinction of being the first club outside of England on this list. Despite its Welsh origin, the club became a member of England's Football League in 1921. Today, Wrexham FC is an active participant in the fifth-tier National League in England, further extending its historical presence in the realm of football.
In conclusion, these venerable football clubs, woven into the fabric of time, stand as living monuments to the enduring spirit of the beautiful game. From Sheffield FC, the trailblazer, to Wrexham FC, representing Wales on this historic list, each club reflects the evolution of football across continents. The journey encompasses triumphs, name changes, and contributions to the growth of the sport. As these clubs continue to play and inspire, their stories intertwine with the broader narrative of football's global legacy. Their longevity not only mirrors the resilience of the sport but also reaffirms its ability to captivate hearts and forge enduring connections across generations.
