FIFA cracks down on racism
In the last months, FIFA implemented a particular set of rules. Handballs, goal kicks, free kicks and dead balls had changes in addition to what new FIFA legal director Emilio Garcia Silvero did for the game.
The FIFA 2019 Disciplinary Code will allow referees to suspend the match in the event of racism. They will have the authority to rule a loss if necessary. For example, if a wave of fans is screaming racial slurs at a player or players from the other side, the referee can stop the game and determine that the squad whose supporters committed the offense loses the game.
FIFA wants to ensure that no fundamental human rights are violated, providing a better atmosphere for the people involved in the game. And in case a player, club or fans break Article 13.2 of the Disciplinary Code, the consequences are enormous.
Article 13.2 states: “Any person who threatens the dignity or integrity of a country, a person or a group of people by using derogatory, discriminatory or humiliating words or actions (by any means)” will be suspended 10 matches. And it expands from players to clubs. There will be economic sanctions, limited attendance or closed-door matches, a written declaration of the victim and possible declaration of a defeat during a game.
There was an intense need to address racism in football; it was a delicate problem that rose dramatically. Humiliating scenes occurred last season in Italy, especially with players like Moise Kean and Kalidou Koulibaly. FIFA finally heard the long history of denouncing racist chants and slurs. Garcia Silvero implemented a drastic and much needed action to protect the players and the game. And it needed to be strong and convincing. It took 15 years to adapt the Disciplinary Code, but finally the new rulebook will contain such an asserted authority for the benefit of the game.
Follow Luis on Twitter: @LFulloa.
Support Soc Takes on Patreon for access to exclusive content and supporter benefits. Click here to become a patron today.
