At the Champions League final there is likely to be evidence of faith, with players making the sign of the cross and other religious gestures. But does belief really boost sporting performance?
All eyes will be on Lionel Messi, the world's greatest footballer, when he walks out with Barcelona in the Champions League final. If you watch carefully, you may see him crossing himself as he strides onto the pitch.
On the opposing side, Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has been known to pray on the pitch.
Messi and Hernandez are not the only footballers to reveal their beliefs during the pursuit of their sport. Real Madrid star Kaka has often talked about his faith, praying on the pitch and thanking God for his rapid recovery from a broken back.
Other sportsmen, from Muhammad Ali to Jonathan Edwards, the triple jumper, have also spoken about the power of faith. They believe in different theologies, but all would assert they have benefited from their convictions. As Ali put it in the build-up to his clash with George Foreman in 1974:
Well said Macca. I am a Humanist, so don't believe in any God(s), but I guess for those who NEED a God in their life to make them believe they are better people, then fair enough. I don't concur with some statements above about people who have to believe in a God are idiots.....they need that crutch to get through their life. Fortunately, I don't.
People can do what they long as long as they don't impose it on me. Religious extremists whateever their persuasion are trouble. PEople who hide behind religion (like paedo priests) are even worse. For the vast majority if that's how they find peace or their release then good luck to them. I prefer football as my chosen religion but each to their own.
Believe in god or not, its doesnt matter as long as it gets you throuigh the day. My mum believes in god, i dont but it gets her through hard times so it is good to have faith. You have idiots who use it as a weapon to start wars but that isnt religion in my book, its just idtio zealots with no opinion of their own.
I was raised by Catholic Nuns. Anyone who knows me will know my views on religion. (read my autobiography). However, I DO respect other peoples beliefs whatever religion they may be, just as long as they don't try to preach their beliefs and try to convert me. They will get a SERIOUS knuckle sandwich!