Is FIFA doing enough to combat racism in soccer?

Following his sides’ recent Europa League matches, striker Michy Batshuayi tweeted that he was shocked to be the recipient of racist remarks from fans in 2018. He stated that FIFA need to work harder to eliminate this aspect from the game.

Racist and sexist ideologies have been present in sports for generations. However in this day and age, with so much talent all over the globe from all different walks of life, there is no room for this anymore. Teams have already begun to work to combat the problem. Players often wear “Say No To Racism” shirts during warm ups, and teams will announce before matches that fans must behave and respect the players or they will be thrown out. Some players have taken it upon themselves to fight and ask questions regarding racism too, be it Batshuayi utilizing social media, or Dani Alves eating a banana that had been thrown at him whilst preparing a corner kick, as a humorous gesture to racists in the crowd. Players have had enough, and FIFA owes it to the players to help eliminate this tragic item from the beautiful game. 

So how could they do it? Firstly, it is important to realize that it would be impossible to change the ideologies of every fan who holds prejudiced beliefs. Despite this, things can be done to help reduce the needless use of language to put players down. One way that could work well would be working hard to train and promote black coaches and black executives. This not only would show that FIFA, as an organization, holds this issue to a high regard, but also would empower other minorities to rise up and become talented at their job too. By doing this, the world would have more people of color in positions of influence, meaning that they could not only enact change regarding racism, but also could show fans that anyone, no matter race, religion, gender, or social background, can become a superstar with hard work and dedication. It is clear that this is already working well in eliminating another form of prejudice. A great example would be the work of Sian Massey, the female referee in the Premier League who has featured in many high profile games as a linesman. It is now time to take a similar approach to minorities, in an attempt to create a level field for all. Similarly, leagues and clubs must continue to fight racism and derogatory behavior at domestic level, as small organizations must also do to eliminate it at grassroots level. As soccer is such an expensive sport to play at club level, often players who cannot afford to play for a team, often whom are minorities and frankly more talented players than those on the team, are looked down upon and mocked. This becomes a longer term problem, as often players will become disheartened, perhaps even quitting the game altogether, not allowing the world to appreciate their talent, and abandoning their dreams. This is unaccepatable, and FIFA needs to do more to help everyone, from all walks of life, have opportunities to excel, as well as punishing those those who exploit and knock down young players who cannot afford to play. By doing this, the likelihood of the problem of prejudice and racism progressing into higher places is diminished.

It will take a long time to truly eradicate racism and any kind of prejudice from the game of soccer. However, it is clear that FIFA is not doing enough. If progress cannot be seen from year to year, new plans must be implanted so that changes can occur more easily. FIFA surely knows this. Hopefully within a few more years, the vile language used towards players will be almost gone, and the game can be enjoyed by every single player and fan, without having to worry about politics, gender, or race. 

Note: This is part one of a two part series regarding the elimination of prejudice in soccer. Keep an eye out for part two, regarding the women’s game, later this week!