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Football
Football was introduced by British workers in Santa Marta and Barranquilla in the late 19th Century. The professional practice of football (soccer) is managed by the Federación Colombiana de Fútbol (Colombian Federation of Football) which has managed the professional level of football soccer in Colombia since its foundation on July 20, 1924. The organization is associated to the FIFA and CONMEBOL since 1936. The Colombia national football team participated in a FIFA World Cup in 1962 followed by others in 1990, 1994 and 1998. Their best display came out in 1990 when they reached the second round.
Most notable Colombian achievement was in the Copa América 2001 edition, which was also hosted in Colombia. The national leagues compete in the Copa Mustang which also participates in international tournaments like Copa Libertadores de América upon winning or finishing in the first places.
Other Sports
Basketball and baseball draw an increasing number of fans. Even golf, tennis and skiing enjoy the patronage of those who can afford them. Automobile racing is another attraction. Bicycle racing culminates each year with the Tour of Colombia (Vuelta de Colombia), covering some 1,200 miles (2,000 km) in 12 days. Perhaps the only indigenous sport is tejo, a game derived from the Chibcha Indians that is similar to quoits.
