Considered one of the most important soccer players in Chilean history, Iván “Bam Bam” Zamorano built a career that transcended borders, marked by his goal-scoring ability and his tenacity on the field. During more than a decade playing abroad, he established himself not only as a figure in world soccer but also as a representative of Chilean identity on the international stage.
A legend at clubs like Real Madrid and Inter Milan, the top scorer in the Spanish league during the 1994–95 season, an Olympic medalist at the 2000 Sydney Games, and a member of the FIFA 100, his career reflects a sporting legacy that is intertwined with a strong sense of belonging. In this interview, Zamorano discusses what it means to take Chile to the highest level, the values that—in his view—define Chileans, and the way the country leaves its mark beyond its borders.
As a legend of La Roja and Real Madrid, what did it mean to you to represent Chile at the highest level of world soccer?
It was a source of immense pride and an honor to represent Chile in the world’s most prestigious countries and clubs. I had the opportunity to carry my flag onto every field, which allowed me to put our country in the spotlight on numerous occasions. I always felt like an ambassador abroad, and I am deeply proud to have achieved something so wonderful.
You were a beloved figure on every team you played for. What Chilean values do you think you embodied, both on and off the field?
I believe what defines us most is that we are hardworking people who rise to the challenge in the face of adversity; we are warriors and children of suffering. That identity allowed me, on teams like Inter Milan or Real Madrid, to find a way forward no matter the difficulty. I always looked for the positive, striving to improve and make a name for myself. If anything sets us apart, it’s that “Mapuche blood”—being warriors to achieve our goals. I demonstrated that above all on the field, while off the field I always tried to give my best.
Based on your experience, what role can athletes play as ambassadors for the country's image?
As public figures, we play a crucial role. We must be aware that we represent not only ourselves, but an entire country. When I arrived in Europe and made a name for myself, people often associated Chile with Pinochet or the Andes. But when you excel in sports, that association shifts to “Chile, Zamorano,” and that is a source of great pride.
We have a public duty and a tremendous responsibility: we never cease to be Chileans. Although I spent 15 years abroad and was technically a foreigner, I was always Chilean at heart. One always strives to represent that identity with a great sense of responsibility toward one’s fellow countrymen.
You lived outside Chile for many years because of your career. What aspects of our country do you think people abroad find most surprising or appreciate the most?
There are many things that stand out here. Living in Europe or the United States, I notice that people really appreciate the respect that exists in Chile. One example people always mention to me is how cars automatically stop at crosswalks.
They also highlight Santiago’s cleanliness, the friendliness of the people, and our cuisine, which is highly appreciated once you get to know it. Above all, everyone raves about our magnificent Andes Mountains. We have a unique cultural and geographical diversity: desert in the north and glaciers in the south.
People really appreciate that variety of climates. Chile is a beautiful country, Santiago is a very modern city, and anyone who has the chance to visit us is enchanted.
Chile, Identity, and Belonging
What did you miss most about Chile when you were abroad?
I’m a person who’s very close to my family. During my time as a soccer player, I brought my mother along with me, so I didn’t miss home-cooked meals like casserole or beans as much. What I do miss is the love, the affection, and that lovely tradition of getting together on the weekend around a barbecue to chat and enjoy ourselves. Those experiences sometimes get lost a bit when you’re abroad. What I miss most is the warmth of home and family.
What does Chile mean to you? How would you encourage someone who doesn't know the country to explore it?
I am deeply proud to be Chilean. Chile is my homeland. It means the world to me because it’s where my parents and grandparents were born; I have very deep roots there, and I love it more than anything. And of course, as I often say, Colo-Colo is Chile too! But without a doubt, I love my country with all my heart.
Chile offers spectacular places to visit, incredible food, and, above all, is a very welcoming country. As the song goes: “And you’ll see how much they love a friend in Chile when they’re a stranger.” That perfectly sums up who we are. I invite you all to discover and enjoy this warm and welcoming country.
