Luis Díaz’ roots: from humble beginnings to global stardom

Our Colombian winger Luis Díaz was a key player in our double victory, and now aims to shine at the World Cup too. Where did his journey to the top of the world begin?

Text by Viktor Coco

Our Colombian winger Luis Díaz was a key player in our double victory, and now aims to shine at the World Cup too. Where did his journey to the top of the world begin?

In the tropical steppe of north-eastern Colombia, a perfectly manicured, lush green artificial turf pitch lies in the middle of the wasteland. Right now, 50 boys and girls are training. They’re all wearing good football boots, and there are plenty of balls and plastic cones. Welcome to the football academy operated by Fundación Luis Díaz, a charity foundation set up by our winger in his home country. In his home town of Barrancas, Luis Díaz has rolled out a green carpet.

“Playing on bare earth isn’t the same as playing on an artificial pitch that meets FIFA standards,” says 31-year-old Josher Brito Díaz, perhaps thinking back to the days when he used to dribble across the football pitches of Barrancas with his famous cousin Luis Fernando. Josher now runs the foundation, which employs not only football coaches but also a social worker. “All our children learn here what they can contribute to the community. Through football, we can improve community life,” says Josher.

Continue reading: https://fcbayern.com/en/news/2026/06/luiz-diaz-roots-the-story-of-lucho-from-barrancas

Picture of Jair Coll

Jair Coll

Jaír F. Coll (B. 1997) is a Colombian documentary photographer who explores belonging and resilience in marginalized communities. He is based in the city of Cali, but has covered news and stories for international media and foreign aid agencies.

More Stories

Audubon: Meet the Metalhead Turned Anthropologist Who Plays Ancient Instruments Inspired by Birds

Audubon: Biologists Are Racing to Protect These Elusive Shorebirds

Guerrilla ELN open to Colombia talks, ready for offensive.