Max Alain Gradel is an iconic figure in Ivorian football and two-time Africa Cup of Nations champion (2015, 2024) - is now stepping onto a new field: sustainable development. Born in Abidjan, the former national team winger and forward earned over 100 international caps and brought his trademark speed, agility, and leadership to clubs including Leeds United, Saint-Étienne, and Toulouse FC. Off the pitch, Max leads the Fondation Max Gradel, a charity dedicated to covering urgent medical costs for children.

Now, as a newly named FAO Champion, he’s lending his voice to promote the agri-food sector, with a special focus on aquaculture and the blue economy in Côte d’Ivoire. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the unwavering support of Ivorians and Africans,” Max says. “Now it’s my turn to give back—by helping grow a vital sector for our future: aquaculture.” Gradel is already using his influence to inspire young people, women, and policymakers to invest in local fish production—an industry ripe with potential for jobs and income. Most recently, he fronted a video campaign for the Selab Fisheries and Aquaculture Expo, supported by FAO’s FISH4ACP programme, highlighting innovation and opportunity in Côte d’Ivoire’s growing blue economy.