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Children with an Alive & Kicking ball

Tag: Libreville

Gabon Disaster

It was right here, at this very airport in Libreville, in April 1993, that a rickety, old Russian military plane was about to take off. It was carrying the Zambian National team to their vital World Cup qualifier in Dakar, Senegal.

The players on that plane made up the greatest Zambian team ever assembled — the pride of a nation. They were dreaming of Zambia’s first World Cup qualification.

The plane, which many had said was unfit for use, had refueled for the second time in Gabon. As it took off, there was an ear-shattering explosion. Every one on board perished.

Zambia mourned first, then later accused Gabon. Gabon denied any responsibility. A long-lasting diplomatic feud began.

And here am I, sitting on the self-same runway in the only seat in the cargo hold of another rickety, old Russian military plane — which is preparing for take-off. I’m more than slighly nervous as I listen to the noisy engines and I feel my body vibrate with the rest of the plane. To compound my fears, it appears that smoking is permitted on this flight.

The Ball in the Russian cargo plane's cockpitThe Ball in the Russian cargo plane

I take a moment to refect upon what might have been for that Zambian team — and to pray that, unlike those poor footballing souls, I live to kick The Ball another day.

The Ball 2018 left England on 25th March 2018 and travelled to the World Cup in Russia.

The Ball 2014 kicked off from England on 9th Jan 2014 and headed to the World Cup in Brazil.

The Ball 2010 left England on 24th Jan 2010 headed to the Opening Ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The Ball 2006 travelled from London to the Opening Ceremony in Munich, Germany.

The Ball 2002 was carried 7000 miles across Europe and Asia to the World Cup finals in Korea & Japan.