By Tyler R. Morrissey
From football to Futbol and “The Beautiful Game,” soccer is a global sport that goes by many different names and monikers. Every four years the best soccer teams from a handful of nations gather for a competition to determine who reigns supreme in one of the world’s most popular sports. As 32 teams compete for the 2018 World Cup in Moscow, Russia, we decided to take a look at some fabulous properties from some of the counties that are favored to bring home international bragging rights.
Spain
Camp de Mar, Spain
The winners of the 2010 World Cup are looking to bring home the glory once again in 2018. Spain is also home to some jaw dropping luxury residences, such as this secluded property in the hills in Camp de Mar. With stunning sea views, a mountain backdrop and fields of fruit trees and aromatic plants, this property is just a 20 minute drive to Palma and 30 minutes to the local international airport. The property with a south/southwest orientation is comprised of three different houses with a total of 10 en-suite bedrooms between them.
For more info: Mallorca Sotheby’s International Realty, palma@mallorcasir.com
Argentina
Melo 1000, Vicente Lopez, Buenos Aires
After a heartbreaking loss in extra time to Germany in the last World Cup Final, Argentina will be seeking retribution in Moscow this summer. Located in the heart of Argentina in its capital city is this commanding six-bedroom home. The nearly 10,000 square foot property can be accessed from the street through stairs that ascend the ravine or with the elevator that connects all the levels of the residence. The classic doorway with a semicircular arch gives way to the entrance hall with a marble floor and blue stucco walls. On this floor the main dining room has an excellent view of the park, as well as pastel colored walls and a marble fireplace.
For more information: Ginevra Sotheby’s International Realty, +54 11-5354-8000
Brazil
Belvedere House, Rio de Janeiro
Brazil hosted the World Cup in 2014 in Rio de Janeiro and the South American squad is a perennial favorite every four years. Not far from the stadium that hosted those matches is this magnificent mansion that’s masterfully modernized and equipped. The property combines sophistication, comfort, warmth and spectacular views of the sea, islands and mountains to create a wholly unique experience. Highlights include a home theater, an office, as well as an integrated bar and barbecue. The outdoor area features a captivating terrace with 180-degree views, Jacuzzi, pool with a waterfall, a gym and a sauna.
For more information: Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty, +55 11-3061-0000
Germany
60325 Hassen, Frankfurt
Despite their stunning first round upset loss to Mexico last Saturday, the defending World Cup champs are still one of the favorites to repeat as champions this year. In the heart of Germany is this stunning 10-bedroom villa on over two acres of land. Nestled in a beautiful park that features mature trees and lovely flower beds, the villa is a magnificent building that was built in 1870 and thoroughly renovated from the ground up between 1999 and 2003. It’s located right on the bank of the Rhine River and offers its occupants over 10,000 square feet of the highest quality living space with a one-of-a-kind stately flair.
For more information: Peters & Peters Sotheby’s International Realty, +49-175-24-22-998
England
St. Edmund’s Terrace, St. John’s Wood, NW8, London
England has one of the oldest national soccer teams in the world, but they haven’t brought home a World Cup title since 1966. Nonetheless they will be a team to keep an eye on this year. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for this stunning, four-bedroom penthouse apartment in London. Positioned within a luxury development and accessed via one of two private passenger elevators, the property benefits from an amazing wrap-around balcony offering breathtaking views across Regent’s Park and the London city skyline. Inside, this apartment has an abundance of natural light flowing through each of the four bedrooms, while the open floor plan invites family members or guests to unwind and enjoy the views.
For more information: United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty, +44 (0)20-7495-9580