Figo announces charity plans

Real Madrid star Luis Figo has announced plans to set up a sports foundation to help underprivileged children in his native Portugal.

Figo, who is one of the highest paid footballers in the world, is hoping to give something back to the country where he was born by nurturing children's interest in sport.

The player said: "In the first phase, the foundation must take stock of the kids' necessities because the primary objective is to give a chance to those who have never had any kind of opportunities."

The Real Madrid star met with the prime minister, Antonio Guterres, yesterday, in order to present the plans for this non-governmental project.

Both the player and government, however, would not disclose their financial strategy, but it is rumoured that the foundation will get some form of tax relief.

Figo was quick to add that it would be a non-profit making organisation: "This will be a non-governmental, non-profit-making venture."

According to Figo, Guterres is very enthusiastic about the idea that could become a reality as early as December.

Football will be at the heart of the project, but the organisers are hoping to encourage children to take part in a variety of sports.

The foundation's first centre will be in Lisbon and if it is successful they hope to build centre's across Portugal and Spain, where Figo has spent most of his playing career.