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I think it is a very simple answer for this one.

Football doesn't need loads of equipment, all you need is a ball and to make some goals or posts. This means it is open to the poor communities as well. They are not restricted by having to buy things in order to play. Young children can play barefoot and dream of being a star.

The sport is so commercialized and is on Television in every country. Thee is a  big marketing budget which FIFA handle and it reaches all corners of the globe. When the world cup is played it is the most viewed sport in the world attracting huge audiences.


Football (not American)/Soccer is #1 sport because, football is actually one of the simple games around, even though there are a long list of rules and regulations. The game is available on almost every platform like TV, Internet streams, or even radio. The immense popularity of the game means that a football fan is often a few clicks from catching the game that would be taking place on the other side of the globe. At the same time, they can also drop in to watch a local game between local teams. A fan can take the interest in the sport even further by taking to the game – even in the local streets – with a few friends.

Football happens to be an intense and action packed game. The results are mostly decided within 90 minutes. The excitement value is further increased by the presence of top quality players. Apart from being a great spectacle to watch, football also presents the opportunity to earn money by betting on different markets regarding each game. Betting on football is incredibly popular in several parts of the world that some fans even regard this to be more exciting than the game itself. The popularity of the sport results in the availability of several sites providing tips on betting. 

Football has become part of the culture with fans often seen crying if their team loses an important match. Football evolved as a game for the local community. The game is extremely cost-effective compared to some of the sports, This cost effectiveness is a huge reason for its popularity.

It's the number one sport in the world because you need nearly nothing to start playing it, practicing it, and becoming really good at it. And once you are really good at it, you have a chance to be discovered by a big team, and start earning a lot of money. 

Basicaly, it is an accessible way out of poverty for many people, all over the world. Even the poorest people can start playing it, with an empty sodacan, or even a rock. You don't need no expensive gear, no expensive to keep animals, no access to specific places...