FIFA step up fight against racism
The 14-member panel will power the Global Stand Against Racism, monitor and advise on anti-racism strategies, participate in educational initiatives and provide input for reforms.
File photo
By Charles Mutebi
Journalists @New Vision
As the fight for FIFA World Cup qualification continues, the battle against racism has taken on a new dimension with the creation of the FIFA Players' Voice Panel.
The 14-member panel will power the Global Stand Against Racism, monitor and advise on anti-racism strategies, participate in educational initiatives and provide input for reforms.
Comprised of representatives from 14 Member Associations and six confederations, the panel features a star-studded lineup of football legends including honorary captain George Weah (Liberia), Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo), Mercy Akide (Nigeria), Iván Córdoba (Colombia), Didier Drogba (Côte d’Ivoire), Khalilou Fadiga (Senegal), Formiga (Brazil), Jessica Houara (France), Maia Jackman (New Zealand), Sun Jihai (China PR), Blaise Matuidi (France), Aya Miyama (Japan), Lotta Schelin (Sweden), Briana Scurry (United States), Mikaël Silvestre (France) and Juan Pablo Sorín (Argentina).
“The Players’ Voice Panel is the result of the unanimous vote by all 211 FIFA Member Associations who, through the Global Stand Against Racism, have made clear that the world is united against the scourge of racism in our game. As part of this, and for the first time ever, we will have players at the heart of the movement required to make this change a reality,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“We are very fortunate to have such impassioned and prominent individuals, each of whom brings their own unique and individual experiences.
“These 16 panel members will support education at all levels of the game and promote new ideas for lasting change. They will further push for a shift in football culture, making sure measures to counter racism are not just talked about, but actioned, both on and off the pitch.”
Weah observed: “Football brings unity and development. It also enhances humanity,” said honorary captain George Weah. “I will always exert all efforts, as I have done in the past and continue to do, to promote the sport because football is life. I am honoured to serve in this role.”