George Weah became the first African former professional footballer to serve as a head of state upon his inauguration as the 25th President of Liberia in 2018. Holding the office until 2024, he brought a global profile to the executive branch, marking a significant transition from a high-profile international sporting career to the complexities of national governance.
Early Career and European Success
Born in 1966 in Monrovia, Weah began his path in association football at the local club Young Survivors before transitioning to professional play in Cameroon with Tonnerre Yaoundé. In 1988, he moved to France to join Monaco under the guidance of manager Arsène Wenger. His career included prominent spells at Paris Saint-Germain, where he won the 1994 Division 1 title, and AC Milan, where he secured two Serie A victories. In 1995, he attained global recognition by winning the Ballon d'Or and being named FIFA World Player of the Year. He concluded his athletic tenure in 2003 after stints in England and a final period with Al Jazira.
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Following his retirement from professional athletics, Weah entered Liberian politics, forming the Congress for Democratic Change. His initial efforts to secure executive office were unsuccessful, with losses in the 2005 presidential race and the 2011 vice-presidential election. He eventually gained legislative experience by serving as a Senator for Montserrado County between 2015 and 2018. His political education includes studies at DeVry University, providing a foundation for his subsequent victory in the 2017 presidential election, which preceded his single term in office ending in 2024.
Public Representation
Throughout his life, Weah has operated as a figure of dual citizenship, holding both Liberian and French nationality. Beyond his formal elected roles, he engaged in international humanitarian efforts as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. His public impact is marked by the distinct trajectory of moving from the sport of football—where he was honored with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award—to the challenges of managing a nation.
Fast facts
- Born: 1966, Monrovia, Liberia
- President of Liberia: 2018–2024
- Senator of Liberia: 2015–2018
- Citizenship: Liberia and France
- Education: DeVry University
- Major Athletic Award: Ballon d'Or
- Language skills: English and French
Questions readers ask
Did George Weah serve as a legislator before becoming president?
Yes, he served as a Member of the Senate of Liberia for Montserrado County from 2015 until his presidential inauguration in 2018.
What is the educational background of George Weah?
He pursued education at DeVry University.
Achievements
- Ballon d'Or
- Educated at DeVry University
- Worked as association football player and politician
