May 20th 2024.
In recent months, there have been numerous incidents of high-profile players speaking out about the racist abuse they have faced from fans. In response, FIFA took a stand on May 16, urging all 211 national federations to adopt strict penalties for racism and establish a universal gesture to communicate when such behavior occurs on the field or in the stands.
According to ESPN, FIFA President Gianni Infantino promised to present a proposal after consulting with Brazilian superstar Vinicius Junior, who has faced racist taunts from fans while playing for Real Madrid in Spain. In a letter addressed to member federations, FIFA called for unity in addressing the issue of racism in football. The letter also proposed the creation of a panel of players to monitor and advise on the implementation of these actions worldwide.
While FIFA's gesture has been generally well-received, there are some who believe it lacks specificity. As reported by The Athletic, Tony Burnett, the CEO of anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out, wrote a letter criticizing the proposals for lacking direction and not addressing ongoing concerns. "FIFA's intentions to take a stand against racism seem genuine, but they lack detail and fail to address the ongoing issues," Burnett wrote.
He continued, "Kick It Out is surprised that the three-step protocol will continue, as it has failed to protect players for years. Instead of introducing new hand gestures, FIFA should focus on empowering players and their management to leave the pitch when they feel it's necessary. Referees also need better education on handling racist incidents."
Burnett's letter concluded, "While players can offer valuable insights into the effects of racism, it is unfair to ask them to come up with solutions to tackle this issue. It is the responsibility of those in charge of the game to protect players and be transparent about their actions."
It is worth noting that Infantino disbanded the FIFA Anti-Racism Task Force in 2016, claiming it had fulfilled its temporary mission before the 2018 World Cup in Russia. This decision is likely to remain a point of contention for some.
In 2022, a study revealed that 55% of players participating in the Euro 2020 and AFCON finals had been subjected to racist abuse. Black players who missed penalties in a finals match between England and Italy were particularly targeted.
Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham spoke to CNN on April 22, expressing his desire for more severe punishments for those who direct racist abuse at players. Bellingham, who has been vocal about the issue throughout his career, spoke on behalf of his teammate, but also questioned whether FIFA executives truly care about the racist abuse experienced by Black players in the sport.
"I do believe there should be more extreme consequences," Bellingham told CNN in April. "I think that's the best way to prevent it from happening in the future. It would also be beneficial to have players involved in the decision-making process. We are the ones who have to endure the abuse, not the people in charge of the game. If they genuinely want to understand what is fair or if they are confused, they can speak to players all over Spain and the world. I encourage them to do so."
Bellingham concluded, "Regardless of race, we can all work together to put an end to this disgusting behavior. It should not be happening. I am curious to see how those in charge involve players in the process of preventing racism in the future."
This issue is just one of many that FIFA has faced in recent years, including corruption allegations surrounding the World Cup. The organization has promised to release a report on these allegations, but it remains to be seen when that will happen.
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