Seven-time Paralympic gold medallist Marcel Hug and a group from his training camp spent an unforgettable afternoon at the FIFA Museum in Zurich.

The action started out at The Rainbow, our colourful arrangement of national-team shirts from all 211 FIFA Member Associations – and, like the guests themselves, a shining symbol of diversity. Next up came an exclusive tour. Hug and Co delighted in taking a deep dive into football history, including “a lot of background information that I didn’t know about”, as the Paralympian put it. As always, one of the highlights was the FIFA World Cup™ Gallery, home to the trophies of all of FIFA’s competitions.

Hug, who was born with a spinal cord defect, has won numerous European and world races (including marathons) and set multiple records. Yet the Paralympics remains the pinnacle. Unsurprisingly, therefore, he picked out his “really emotional” first Games appearance at Athens 2004 and his maiden gold medals at Rio 2016 (“my biggest dream come true”) as his most special memories.

Just like the Games for para-athletes, FIFA tournaments provide the ultimate stage for footballers. The man nicknamed Silver Bullet explained that he follows World Cups keenly – especially when Switzerland are playing. In this regard, Hug underscored how sport can transcend boundaries and bring people together. “There are so many good examples of championing inclusion. Sport is a huge force for change,” said the star, while pointing to the need for more progress.

The 39-year-old is aware of his status as a role model, but stressed that, “It’s important for me to be able to just be myself and not feel that I have to behave a particular way.” Yet he is making a difference through both his example and the annual Silver Bullet Camp. Co-founded a decade ago with his long-time coach and mentor Paul Odermatt, it draws on the pair’s extensive experience. It will provide an avenue for Hug to remain heavily involved in sport even once he stops competing.

Held at the Swiss Paraplegic Centre in the town of Nottwil, near Lucerne, the “camp for champs” is open both to budding athletes and total beginners. It is aimed at promoting access to (para)sport at all levels, developing a sense of community and helping to produce the next generation of Marcel Hugs. Besides daily training sessions, it includes social activities and outings – including this highly enjoyable visit to the FIFA Museum.