The Good Footballers: Hector Bellerín
Why the Spanish footballer who became a cult icon deserves our attention
It's time to introduce another one of the football players spreading The Good Football news. Meet Hector Bellerín.
The good profile
Born in Barcelona, Hector Bellerín plays as a right-back/wing-back for Real Betis Balompié, having previously played for FC Barcelona, Arsenal, and Sporting CP.
Hector has three FA Cups, two FA Community Shields, and one Copa del Rey on his CV, but his accomplishments extend way beyond the victories and titles on the pitch.
The good evidence
Bellerín's commitment and vocal support to the causes he cares about have made him known not only for being a footballer in some of the biggest European clubs but also for his leadership and values.
Since 2017, Hector has been vegan. As a high-performance athlete, his diet choice is even more relevant for the conversation around a more sustainable food industry and habits.
While at Arsenal and through a partnership with One Tree Planted, Bellerín planted over 58k trees in the Amazon - 3k for every Arsenal win.
He is the second-largest shareholder of Forest Green Rover, the greenest football club in the world.
“Football gives you a platform. How you use that platform has a super big effect on society, sometimes unconsciously. It's not just being a good example for the new generations, it's using your platform for things you care about.” Hector Bellerín
🌟 Extra evidence 🌟
Hector Bellerín did not stay quiet about the Rubiales scandal following the Women’s World Cup. Through social media, he brought attention to the absurdity and seriousness of the episode: “Football is a social tool to advance and progress. Sexism should have no place in this system."
He's one of the most stylish footballers out there and prioritizes sustainability when shopping for clothes, too.
The Mundial guys say Hector is a very nice and kind fella.
The good effect
Hector Bellerín has been nominated one of the “Men of the Year” by GQ in 2022, appeared on multiple magazine covers and podcasts, co-designed a sustainable clothing collection with H&M, was named creative director of Volta (EA Sports' FIFA 21 video game's street football mode) and designed their retro kits, released a docu-series portraying his ACL recovery, and more.
Through his activism, communication, and unique style, Bellerín expresses his personality well and has built a consistent and distinctive personal brand, opening a range of opportunities and reaching new audience segments.
The synergy between his and his current club's brand is also remarkable. Real Betis’s sustainability-focused efforts allow him to stay consistent with his brand, put his values into practice ‘in-house’, and connect even more with the fans. The club benefits from it, too, by being associated with his solid, cult, and purpose-led brand.
This video announcing his return early this year is the best proof (check the comment session too and see it for yourself).
Hector Bellerín is a great case of personal brand excellency in execution, consistency and, most importantly, authenticity. People can tell that his values are genuine and his actions validate what he is communicating - with and without words.
I'm excited to see what else he will bring in the future, including the fine retro fits. 🔥
THE GOOD LINKS
🌟 Aitana Bonmatí on the BBC 100 Women list 2023, and Jenni Hermoso on the Financial Times's 25 Most Influential Women of 2023 list.
🎖️ This award won by Angel City's 10% sponsorship model, in which 10% of every sponsorship dollar goes is directed to community programs.
🥺 This iconic moment when we got to see the Ted Lasso dance once again.
🥰 This 100-year-old Lionesses fan's reaction when getting her first jersey.
👕 These Football Beyond Borders tees which not only look super cool but support an amazing initiative. A perfect Good holiday gift!