Racism in Football — Spot It, Stop It, Report It
Racism still shows up at stadiums, on social media and in dressing rooms. It can be shouted from the crowd, spat at a player, or sent as hateful messages online. That makes the game unsafe for players and fans and damages the sport we love. This page gives clear, practical steps you can take right away — whether you’re a fan, a player, a coach or a club official.
What racism looks like and why quick action matters
Racist abuse isn’t always obvious. It can be slurs and chants, monkey noises, gestures, or targeted messages on Twitter, Instagram and WhatsApp. Sometimes it’s exclusionary behaviour — a player left out because of their race or a fan being ignored when reporting abuse. Acting fast matters: evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and the person targeted suffers longer. Simple acts of reporting and support change the outcome for the victim and set a clear tone that abuse won’t be tolerated.
If you see or experience racism, protect safety first. Move away from danger, get to stewards or club security, and ask for help. If the insult is online, screenshot everything — date, time, username, and the full thread if possible. That record is crucial when clubs, police or platforms investigate.
How to report racism — practical steps for everyone
1) At the match: find a steward or security staff immediately and explain exactly what happened. Ask for an incident number or written note. Ask the club for CCTV review if needed.
2) With your club or team: email or call the club’s safeguarding or fan liaison officer. Tell them the facts, attach evidence and ask what sanctions or follow-up they will take.
3) To the league or national FA: use their online forms to file a complaint. Most leagues have fast-track processes for discriminatory behaviour and can apply bans or fines.
4) On social media: use the platform’s report tools and keep screenshots. Platforms can remove accounts and content, but remove apps or block accounts only after saving evidence if you want it for investigations.
5) Legal and welfare support: if the abuse is severe or threatening, contact the police. Victims should also get support from player unions, local anti-racism groups, or mental health services. You don’t have to handle it alone.
Clubs and leagues must do more than punish. They should train staff and fans, use clear stadium bans, improve stewarding and review CCTV quickly. Fans can help by calling out abuse, supporting targeted fans, and refusing to stand for chants. When everyone acts, racism loses its place in football.
If you want templates for reporting, or tips for collecting evidence, check the club page or the national FA site. The game is for everyone — and we all have a role in keeping it that way.
Arne Slot Condemns Racist Abuse Against Antoine Semenyo During Liverpool vs Bournemouth Clash
Arne Slot, Liverpool's head coach, has slammed the racist abuse aimed at Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo during their Premier League match at Anfield. The disturbing incident, which saw Semenyo continue playing at a high level and score twice despite the abuse, has reignited urgent conversations about football’s struggle against discrimination and the need for tougher anti-racism action.
