People’s Puskas Returns: Veo Spotlights the Grassroots Game Again
Magnus Holt
Veo is on a mission to find “the best goal you never saw” and invites the football community to spotlight unforgettable goals that often go unnoticed, far from the spotlights.
Football belongs to everyone, and incredible goals and moments aren’t limited to the world’s biggest arenas. With the Peoples’ Puskas 2024 campaign and award, Veo is once again championing the players on all levels who put their hearts into every game – and occasionally score goals worthy of the world’s spotlight.
Over 7 million goals have been recorded with Veo in 2024. Nobody has seen them all, but they’ve all been seen by some. And in Veo, we’ve seen enough to know that the grassroots game has produced goals that deserve a place in any highlight reel. That’s why Veo is inviting the global football community to nominate their favorite goals scored by anyone, anywhere, in the 2024 calendar year.
Since its inception in 2022, the People’s Puskas has been countering the idea that beautiful goals are only scored by the elite. The campaign has impressed football enthusiasts worldwide by highlighting grassroots goals and earned recognition from media outlets like ESPN and SPORTbible.
Each year, Veo has elevated the campaign; in 2023, tens of thousands participated by voting and cheering for the 23 nominated goalscorers.
Eighteen-year-old Mason Evans from Ynyshir Albions FC, Wales, won the 2023 edition of People's Puskas with a remarkable volley. Evans captured the hearts of football fans worldwide, impressing over 12 million people on social media platforms and earning recognition from football legends like Robin van Persie and Billy Wingrove. As the winner, he experienced the impact firsthand:
“When I scored that goal in September, I knew it would blow up immediately. I expected a couple of thousand views but ended up with over 12 million and even got a retweet by van Persie himself and recognition from Billy Wingrove,” says Mason Evens.
Now, in its third edition, People’s Puskas returns with more nominations and an even wider global reach. Starting in December, players and clubs can submit their most beautiful goals caught with Veo from the calendar year, and the winner will be found by the people in March.
“At Veo, we're passionate about football. Seeing our technology empower young players and coaches at the grassroots level is truly inspiring. It's about nurturing the love of the game and helping everyone reach their full potential. We believe that grassroots football is the foundation of the sport. By awarding the best amateur goals, we’re playing our small part in the future of football,” says Rob Scotland, Head of Brand and Communications at Veo.
This year, Danish activewear brand 7 Days Active has joined the People’s Puskas to help spotlight grassroots talent. Veo shares 7 Days Active’s mission to inspire people to be more active. The partnership will introduce a limited-edition People’s Puskas merchandise line, giving unseen footballers a platform to shine on and off the pitch.
Learn more and submit your goal at www.peoplespuskas.com