FIFA unveiled plans on Friday to combat racism in football, introducing a "crossed hands" gesture for players to signal incidents of racial abuse to referees. The governing body aims to establish racism as a specific offense in the disciplinary codes of all 211 member associations, with severe penalties, including match forfeitures, for offenders.
This initiative follows extensive consultations with players who have experienced discrimination firsthand, with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior and others speaking out against the racial abuse they endure on the field.
Vinicius Junior, among the high-profile figures advocating for change, has openly addressed the racist insults he faces while playing in LaLiga, expressing how it impacts his passion for the sport.
The 23-year-old Brazilian winger's experiences highlight the urgent need for action against racism in football, echoed by his teammate Jude Bellingham and other players of color who have also suffered similar abuse. Despite calls for stronger measures, skepticism remains about the authorities' commitment to addressing the issue effectively.
FIFA’s multifaceted approach to combat racism includes not only stricter rules and penalties but also advocacy for the criminalization of racism in national legislation and the promotion of anti-racism education in schools and communities.
Additionally, the establishment of a dedicated players' anti-racism panel underscores the organization's commitment to monitoring and advising on the implementation of these initiatives, signaling a concerted effort to tackle discrimination in football comprehensively.
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