FIFA has established a 16-member Players’ Voice Panel to combat racism in football, appointing former Ballon d’Or winner George Weah as its honorary captain. This panel includes football legends from 14 countries, such as Didier Drogba, Formiga, and Briana Scurry, representing both men’s and women’s football. Their mission involves advising on anti-racism strategies, participating in educational initiatives, and contributing to reforms aimed at promoting inclusivity in the sport.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the panel’s importance in driving education and fostering a cultural shift in football, insisting that racism and discrimination are crimes deserving significant consequences both within and outside the sport. He stated that all incidents of racism, whether in stadiums or online, should be thoroughly punished.
This initiative aligns with FIFA’s Global Stand Against Racism, adopted by all 211 FIFA Member Associations at the 74th FIFA Congress in May 2024. The initiative is built on five pillars: rules and sanctions, on-field actions, criminal charges, education, and players’ voices. The panel is designed to monitor and advise on these anti-racism efforts while serving as a think tank for innovative ideas.
Weah emphasized football’s potential as a unifying force, asserting its role in fostering unity and humanity. The formation of the panel is especially timely, following recent racial abuse incidents, such as the case of Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo during a Premier League match. FIFA condemned these occurrences and remains committed to safeguarding player respect and protection. The Players’ Voice Panel aims to harness the experiences of former players to instigate meaningful changes in football’s approach to racism, striving for a more inclusive sport.
Leave a comment