FIFA has unveiled the Players’ Voice Panel, a 16-member team of football legends tasked with driving the Global Stand Against Racism and pushing for lasting cultural change in the game.
The panel, representing 14 member associations and six confederations, will shape anti-racism policies, educate players and fans, advise on reforms and use their personal experiences to promote unity.
Among the members are honorary captain George Weah (Liberia), Didier Drogba (Côte d’Ivoire), Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo), Mercy Akide (Nigeria), Blaise Matuidi (France), Formiga (Brazil), Jessica Houara (France), Iván Córdoba (Colombia), Aya Miyama (Japan), Lotta Schelin (Sweden), Briana Scurry (USA), Juan Pablo Sorín (Argentina), Mikaël Silvestre (France), Maia Jackman (New Zealand), Sun Jihai (China PR) and Khalilou Fadiga (Senegal).
The initiative is part of Pillar 5 of FIFA’s Global Stand Against Racism, adopted by all 211 member associations during last year’s FIFA Congress in Bangkok, which focuses on elevating players’ voices.
“For the first time, players are at the heart of the fight against racism,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“These 16 members will drive education, propose solutions, and ensure anti-racism measures are not just discussed but enforced.”
The panel will monitor FIFA’s ongoing initiatives, guide anti-discrimination strategies, and champion the No Racism campaign through storytelling and advocacy.
They’ll also participate in educational programs for players, especially in youth tournaments, while raising awareness about stronger disciplinary measures.
FIFA has updated its Disciplinary Code, increasing maximum fines for racist conduct to CHF 5 million and making the three-step anti-discrimination procedure including the No Racism Gesture, mandatory for all member associations.
Additionally, FIFA’s Social Media Protection Service, introduced at the 2022 World Cup, has analysed over 33 million posts and compiled 100 evidence packs to assist national authorities in tackling online abuse.
Honorary captain George Weah, Liberia’s president and Ballon d’Or winner, stressed football’s power to unite:
“Football brings unity and development. I will continue to fight for a game free of racism because football is life,” Weah said.
Through its five pillars, rules and sanctions, action on the field, criminal charges, education, and players’ voices, FIFA aims to build a safer, more inclusive football culture.
The Players’ Voice Panel will be at the forefront, ensuring the fight against racism creates a lasting impact both on and off the pitch.
