FIFA has intensified its efforts to combat racism in sports by unveiling the composition of its Players’ Voice Panel.
The panel comprises 16 distinguished individuals from both men’s and women’s football, all of whom are committed to eradicating racism from the game.
This panel is expected to promote the Global Stand Against Racism by offering personal experiences and leadership to combat racial discrimination in football. It oversees and guides anti-racism programs aligned with the Global Stand Against Racism initiative, spearheads educational efforts at various levels of the game, and acts as a think tank for innovative ideas.
The panel advocates for cultural transformation and the consistent application of anti-racism policies throughout the football community, aiming to create a meaningful and sustainable impact both on the field and beyond.
Established under pillar 5 of FIFA’s Global Stand Against Racism – which was unanimously adopted by the 211 FIFA Member Associations at the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, on 17 May last year – the Players’ Voice Panel line-up is as follows: 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].
WHAT FIFA PRESIDENT INFANTINO SAID ABOUT THE PLAYERS’ VOICE PANEL
“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.”
He added that racism and discrimination were not simply wrong, but were crimes. “All incidents of racism, whether in stadiums or online, must be fully punished both by football and across society.”
The panel members will play a vital role in educating various groups, including participants in FIFA youth tournaments, about racism. Emphasising the impact that such discrimination has on players, other individuals, and the sport of football itself, the panel will provide support and practical guidance on how to collaborate in combating these issues, which are considered criminal acts in many nations.
“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.”
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