- by croatiaweek
- April 15, 2026
- in
Former Croatian footballer Davor Šuker has been named among the candidates for induction into the International Football Hall of Fame in Mexico, an institution recognising some of the greatest figures in the sport.
The Hall of Fame, officially known as the Salón de la Fama del Fútbol Internacional, is based in the city of Pachuca. Opened in 2011, the interactive museum celebrates global football legends and operates with the backing of FIFA, giving it international credibility.
Often referred to as the cradle of Mexican football, Pachuca is home to the project led by Grupo Pachuca, a major sports organisation employing around 3,000 people. The group owns several football clubs in Mexico and holds a majority stake in Spain’s Real Oviedo.
Since its inception, the Hall of Fame has inducted dozens of players and coaches from across the globe, including legendary names such as Pelé, Diego Maradona, Johan Cruyff and Zinedine Zidane. The institution also recognises contributors to Mexican football, as well as figures from the women’s game.
Šuker, who famously finished as top scorer at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, is among 15 former players shortlisted this year. Voting is conducted by an international panel of over 140 journalists from 35 countries, who must select six names before the deadline of 17 April.
Davor Šuker (Photo credit: Ludovic Péron/CC BY-SA 3.0)
The Croatian icon faces strong competition from a host of global stars, including Thierry Henry, Alessandro Del Piero, Bebeto, Xabi Alonso and Claudio Caniggia.
Although the Mexican-based Hall of Fame is less widely known in Europe, its FIFA recognition and growing international jury have strengthened its standing in recent years.
If selected, Šuker would join an elite group of football greats honoured for their lasting impact on the global game.
The final results are expected following the conclusion of the voting process later this month.