Provocation or a systemic problem of society: how to remove racism from soccer In recent years, the topic of racism in soccer has become particularly acute. Insults against dark-skinned players at stadiums are becoming not only a problem of specific matches, but also a challenge for the entire soccer community.
What is the nature of these incidents? Are they provocations or do they reflect an underlying problem? Evgeny Rodionov, head of the Spartak Junior Khimki school, and Stanislav Yemanov, soccer observer, helped RuNews24.ru to understand this question.
Racism in the stands is often a provocation
“Of course, it's all provocation on the part of the fans. We are fixated on racism, I have my own children's school, and I tell my kids that whoever calls you names during the game, your business is not to listen to what you are told. Score goals and win games. And I, as your coach, will defend you,” Rodionov explained
In his opinion, it is important not to give in to provocations, and the coaching staff must protect the players from such attacks. But how realistic is that when racist insults are used?
Stanislav Yemanov spoke about a recent incident that took place at a Premier League match:
“In the last round in Voronezh, Zenit met with Fakel. In the second half, one of Zenit's players, Brazilian Wendel, was sent off because of an obscene gesture towards the stands. The team said that the stands provoked the player with racist insults”.
The incident attracted the attention of the control and disciplinary commission of the Russian Football Union. Despite this, the disqualification was upheld and Wendel will miss the next match. In this case, racism may have been used as a tool of pressure, but the problem lies deeper - not only in the provocations, but also in the ability of the soccer community to resist them.
The Fan ID system, introduced to control fans and ensure their identification, will not always be able to stop aggression and racism. Although its original purpose was to prevent incidents, the problem has proved more complex.
“The introduction of Fan ID was probably meant to keep spectators and players away from aggression. However, incidents of racism still occur. Fan sectors in the stands of stadiums are still empty, stadiums gradually began to fill up with families of spectators. But, unfortunately, this has not solved the problem of racism,” said Yemanov.
The fight against racism should include not only control measures, but also educational programs for fans. Active participation of clubs, leagues and international organizations is necessary. A joint approach, including both immediate measures and long-term education programs, will create a safer and more respectful atmosphere in stadiums.
Ultimately, if racism in soccer is to become a thing of the past, it requires the combined efforts of all those involved - from the soccer authorities to the fans. This is the only way to create an environment in which soccer can once again become a source of joy and inspiration for all.
Author: Наталья Чудесатова
