FIFA launches 16-member racism task force led by George Weah
FIFA has unveiled a heavyweight panel of former football stars to tackle racism in the sport, appointing Liberian legend George Weah as honorary captain. The newly formed “Players’ Voice Panel” comprises 16 ex-professionals from six continents, all tasked with shaping policies and driving real action against discrimination on and off the pitch.
All-star line-up spans eras and positions
The task force brings together global icons who represent an array of backgrounds and experiences. Alongside Weah, the panel includes:
- Didier Drogba – the Ivorians’ talisman and Chelsea great who famously used his platform to foster peace in his home country.
- Emmanuel Adebayor – the Togolese striker with Premier League pedigree at Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham.
- Mickaël Silvestre – the smooth-footed French defender who starred for Manchester United.
- Sun Jihai – the trailblazing Chinese full-back who broke new ground in the Premier League with Manchester City.
- Khalilou Fadiga – the Senegalese midfield dynamo remembered for his flair at Inter Milan.
- Blaise Matuidi – the combative French midfielder, World Cup winner in 2018.
- Iván Córdoba – Colombia’s rock-solid centre-back and Inter Milan stalwart.
- Juan Pablo Sorín – the versatile Argentine defender-midfielder known for his leadership.
- Mercy Akide – the Nigerian forward credited with pioneering women’s football in Africa.
- Aya Miyama – Japan’s midfield maestro and captain of the 2011 Women’s World Cup-winning team.
- Lotta Schelin – Sweden’s prolific striker and one of Europe’s most decorated women footballers.
- Briana Scurry – the pioneering US goalkeeper who backstopped the Women’s National Team to multiple titles.
Weah’s journey from Ballon d’Or to heads of state
At 58, George Weah remains the only African recipient of the Ballon d’Or, having dazzled clubs such as AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City. After retiring, he transitioned into politics, becoming Liberia’s president for two consecutive terms. His dual success on the pitch and in public service makes him a powerful voice against discrimination.
“Football brings unity and development. It also enhances humanity,” said Weah upon accepting the role. “I will always exert all efforts to promote the sport because football is life. I am honoured to serve in this role.”
Infantino: “Racism is a crime, not just wrong”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stressed the panel’s mission goes beyond raising awareness. “These 16 panel members will support education at all levels of the game and promote new ideas for lasting change,” he declared. “They will ensure measures to counter racism are actioned, both on and off the pitch. Let’s be clear: racism and discrimination are crimes. All incidents must be fully punished by football and across society.”
Adebayor’s participation faces visa challenge
However, the inclusion of Emmanuel Adebayor brings an ironic twist. As a Togolese national, Adebayor may struggle to attend the next FIFA World Cup in the United States due to travel restrictions on citizens of certain countries, including Togo. While players and coaching staff from these nations are exempt from bans for tournament duties, patriotic fans may find themselves unable to travel.
This visa snag underlines broader challenges in aligning global sports initiatives with geopolitical realities. As FIFA prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup across the US, Canada and Mexico, It remains to be seen how authorities will navigate such discrepancies.
Shaping a zero-tolerance culture
The new racism task force forms part of FIFA’s wider strategy, “Wilson Vision 2025,” targeting deeper cultural shifts. Panelists will advise on:
- Enhanced anti-racism training for players, coaches and referees.
- Stricter sanctions and transparent investigations for reported incidents.
- Grassroots programmes to foster diversity and inclusion in youth academies.
- Digital campaigns to combat online abuse and hate speech.
By harnessing the voices of former stars who broke barriers themselves, FIFA aims to cultivate a zero-tolerance culture where equality and respect are non-negotiable pillars of the beautiful game.