When most people picture a professional footballer arriving at training, the image that comes to mind is usually a luxury car pulling up to the gates. For Real Betis defender Hector Bellerin, however, the reality is very different.
The 30-year-old often chooses to ride his bike or use public transport to reach the club’s base in Seville, a decision that reflects his deep commitment to sustainability.
“It would be easier to take a cab. I know I’m privileged, but it’s more of a statement. We need greener cities, with fewer cars,” Bellerin explains.
Wenger’s influence
Bellerin’s outlook was shaped during his years at Arsenal, where he arrived at just 16. He credits former manager Arsene Wenger for encouraging a holistic lifestyle that extended beyond football.
“With sustainability comes empathy and compassion,” Bellerin says. “Wenger was someone who embodied that and inspired me to think differently.”
Beyond the pitch
Away from football, Bellerin uses his platform to encourage climate action and conscious consumption. From becoming vegan to buying second-hand clothes, he has built his lifestyle around reducing waste and questioning consumer habits.
He also stresses the importance of using one’s voice: “Every time someone puts a microphone next to you, there’s a chance to talk about issues. With power comes responsibility.”
A perfect fit at Betis
Joining Betis felt natural to Bellerin, not only because of family ties but also because of the club’s sustainability projects. Betis has introduced initiatives like stadium seats made from discarded fishing nets and eco-friendly shirts made from recycled materials
Bellerin also became a shareholder in Forest Green Rovers, another club known for its environmental focus.
The bigger picture
Despite his efforts, Bellerin acknowledges the contradictions within football. The sport involves enormous amounts of travel and expansion, which clash with sustainability goals.
“I’m not going to stop doing what I love,” he says, “but I can raise my voice about the things that could be done better.”
He believes change will only come if players unite, pointing to women’s football as an example of collective strength. “If footballers had the courage to protest against certain things, the world would be a completely different place,” he adds.
Recognition and responsibility
At the end of a recent interview, Bellerin was surprised with the BBC Green Sport Award, a recognition of his long-term advocacy for sustainability. “I really appreciate it because it means all the effort behind the scenes has been seen and appreciated,” he said.
Conclusion
Hector Bellerin may stand out for his speed and skill on the pitch, but it is his commitment to a greener lifestyle that truly sets him apart.
By cycling to work, promoting eco-friendly choices, and using his platform for change, he shows that footballers can be more than athletes—they can be leaders for a sustainable future.