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UEFA - The Union of European Football Associations, is the European Football Confederation. UEFA was founded on June 15, 1954, during the World Cup games in Switzerland. Representatives of 30 National Associations, which sought to strengthen the European position in football around the world, were involved in the foundation of UEFA.
The first competition established by UEFA was the European Champion Clubs Cup, later to be re-named the UEFA Champions League. In 1960, UEFA decided to run competitions for national teams as well, with the introduction of the Nations' Cup (now the European Football Championship). Among the other club competitions are the UEFA Cup and the Intertoto Cup. The milestone for the strengthening of UEFA's position in the football world, were achievements of the charismatic football club "Real Madrid" in the late 50's and the beginning of the 60's.
UEFA now also runs competitions for women and for youth teams at various age-levels, as well for Futsal (indoor football). In addition, UEFA arranges symposiums and seminars on football issues.
Israel was accepted as a member of UEFA in 1994.
Today 52 countries are members of UEFA. UEFA nowadays, is expanding its activities to social areas as well, such as the fight against racism or help for disabled footballers.
Under its President, Mr. Lennart Johansson, who was elected in 1990, UEFA has become the most important continental football organization in the world.
The Israel Football Association
