Foosball Origins

Foosball, also known as table soccer, traces its roots to late 19th-century Europe. While the exact origin is debated, several key developments shaped the game's early history:

• 1890s: Patents for table soccer games emerged in Spain, Germany, and France. [Source]
• 1921: Harold Searles Thornton from the UK patented a game called "Apparatus for playing a game of table football," inspired by a box of matches. [Source]
• 1930s: French engineer Lucien Rosengart developed a version called "babyfoot" to entertain his grandchildren during winter months. [Source]
• 1937: Spanish inventor Alejandro Finisterre patented "futbolín," aiming to aid in the rehabilitation of war-injured children. [Source]

An antique foosball table from the early 20th century, showcasing the game's origins.

Foosball's Arrival in the United States

In the 1950s, American military personnel stationed in Europe brought foosball back to the U.S. The game gained popularity in bars and recreational venues, leading to a surge in interest during the 1970s. [Source]

The Rise of Tornado Tables

In 1970, Bob Furr and Bob Hayes introduced the first American-made foosball table, known as the Tornado. Manufactured in Dallas, Texas, Tornado tables quickly became the standard for competitive play in the U.S. [Source]

By 1986, Tornado tables were used in the World Championships and became the official table for major U.S. tournaments. [Source]

A modern Tornado foosball table used in official U.S. tournaments.

Modern Foosball

Today, foosball is recognized globally, with the International Table Soccer Federation (ITSF) established in 2002 to promote the sport and organize international competitions. [Source]

Tornado remains a leading manufacturer, with its tables used in official tournaments and recreational settings across the United States. [Source]