FIFA has unveiled a brand new “crossed arms” gesture to fight racism throughout soccer matches.
“Following its unanimous approval at the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 17, 2024, the global crossed arms gesture to signal racist abuse will become part of football protocol when implemented at the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup Colombia 2024,” FIFA stated in a press release on Friday.
The world soccer governing physique stated that the “No Racism” gesture, which can empower gamers, referees, and staff officers, can be “implemented as part of the existing three-step procedure” on the event set to start on Saturday.
“By crossing their hands at the wrists, players will be able to signal directly to the referee that they are being targeted by racist abuse, prompting the referee to start the three-step procedure. With the first step, the match will be stopped. If the abuse continues, the match will be suspended, with the players and match officials exiting the field of play. If the incident does not cease, the match will be abandoned in the third step,” FIFA added.
As a part of its zero-tolerance coverage in opposition to discrimination, FIFA stated the “No Racism” gesture can be utilized in any respect FIFA competitions.
“Fighting racism is something we all need to stand up and do together,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated.
“Implementing the ‘No Racism’ gesture at the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup 2024 in Colombia is a key first step to empowering players worldwide. Now enshrined in the three-step procedure, we look forward to seeing this rolled out globally to maximum effect,” Infantino stated, including that every one 211 FIFA members unanimously supported it on the FIFA Congress.
Infantino thanked FIFA members for his or her “determination and efforts” within the battle in opposition to racism in soccer.
“We must all work with governments and police authorities to bring consequences for those who threaten to ruin our sport with racism. Now we are taking resolute and unequivocal action,” he added.
FIFA has been combating racial abuse and discrimination in soccer for years. It beforehand launched the “No Discrimination” marketing campaign on the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar to lift consciousness, educate folks, and take motion in opposition to all types of discrimination within the recreation.
As a part of this marketing campaign, “powerful and unequivocal messages” have been displayed on stadium large screens and promoting boards close to the pitch.
Source: www.dailysabah.com