News in 2006

30th January 2006

Players to sign contract against racism

All footballers in Europe could be contractually banned from acting or speaking in a racist way, under plans that will be unveiled at Uefa's conference on racism in football this week. Fifpro, the global association of players' unions, will propose that all clubs in Uefa's 52 member countries should insert a standard clause in all players' contracts committing them not to display racism.

Any player caught racially abusing an opponent or referee would then face sanctions such as a fine or even a dismissal for repeated offences. Tony Higgins, the chief executive of the Scottish Professional Footballers' Association, who heads Fifpro's anti-racist unit, will outline the plans at the Uefa event in Barcelona. 'The idea is to commit all players through their employment contract to act in a non-racist manner, the way they already have to stay fit and healthy and refrain from dangerous sports,' said Higgins.

Uefa could make the introduction of such a clause a requirement for any side wanting to take part in their competitions through their existing club licensing scheme, explained Higgins.

Source: Show Racism the Red Card