Arthur Drewry (1891-1961) was a British football administrator who served as the president of FIFA from 1955 until his death in 1961. During his tenure, Drewry oversaw the growth and modernization of international football and was instrumental in the establishment of the European Champions Cup.
Drewry was born in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, in 1891. After serving in the British Army during World War I, he became involved in football administration, serving as the chairman of the Lincolnshire Football Association and the president of the English Football League.
In 1953, Drewry was elected to the executive committee of FIFA and quickly rose through the ranks to become vice president in 1954. The following year, he was elected as the fifth president of FIFA, succeeding Rodolphe Seeldrayers.
One of Drewry’s most significant achievements was the establishment of the European Champions Cup in 1955. The tournament, which brought together the top club teams from across Europe, quickly became one of the most prestigious and lucrative competitions in the world of football. Drewry was also a strong advocate for the inclusion of professional players in international football, helping to remove the amateur requirement for players in international competitions.
Drewry’s presidency was not without controversy, however. He faced criticism for his handling of the 1960 Olympic football tournament, which was marred by political tensions and disputes over the eligibility of players. He was also accused of being too lenient on the South African Football Association, which was facing international condemnation for its policy of apartheid.
Despite these challenges, Drewry remained a highly respected and influential figure in the world of football until his death in 1961. He was widely praised for his vision and leadership, and his legacy lives on through the many institutions and competitions that he helped to establish.
In conclusion, Arthur Drewry was a key figure in the development of international football during the mid-20th century. As president of FIFA, he oversaw the establishment of the European Champions Cup and helped to modernize the sport by advocating for the inclusion of professional players in international competitions. Although he faced some controversy during his presidency, Drewry is remembered as a respected and influential leader who made a lasting impact on the world of football.