Zero tolerance for racism at EURO

The football family and anti-racism campaigners have joined forces at the start of UEFA EURO 2008™ to deliver a strong message - racist conduct, discrimination and intolerance will have no place at the tournament, or in the future.

Three-week programme
A key gathering in Basel brought together representatives of UEFA and the FARE (Football Against Racism in Europe) network for a reception featuring former footballers, administrators and non-government organisations to signal the beginning of a three-week anti-discrimination programme at UEFA EURO 2008™. The Unite Against Racism programme, run by the Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) network with UEFA's backing, as well as with the support of the professional players' union FIFPro, will include an advertising spot broadcast at every game - Different Languages, One Goal: No To Racism - pitch-side boards and activities with fans, culminating in high-profile activities on the field at the semi-finals in Basel and Vienna on 25 and 26 June.

Football and society
"It is probably not a very flattering sign for football or society as a whole that we are gathered here a few hours before the start of UEFA EURO 2008™ to kick off the Unite Against Racism campaign," said UEFA vice-president Şenes Erzik. "I think we all agree that, in an ideal world, we should be able to do so without such campaigns. But, given the circumstances, I believe it is a positive thing that representatives of the football family and other members of society have come together to unite against racism at the very beginning of this tournament. Racism and discrimination is a complex issue with many different forms and different targets. Discrimination is expressed against people for various reasons - skin colour, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender, religion and more. It is not simply a black and white issue.

Serious problem
"UEFA has been working closely with Football Against Racism in Europe - the FARE network - for many years now," Mr Erzik continued. "Together with the rest of the football family, and with other members of society, from the worlds of politics and media, you have all helped to build increased awareness of racism and discrimination in society and in football. Racism is now acknowledged as a serious problem. Everybody now knows that it is not accepted by the mainstream of civilised society or by the mainstream of football - racism is wrong."

Problem exists
"We cannot close our eyes to the problem that verbal and physical violence exists in the world and in football," said Swiss federal council EURO delegate Benedikt Weibel. "We love this game, and we must fight against [racism and discrimination]. I am happy that the [FARE/UEFA] network exists." Austria's National Council president Barbara Prammer added: "UEFA is an example in the fight against racism. I am pleased that UEFA has undertaken serious and competent work for many years [in this area]."

Wide message
"The EURO tournament is a global entity," said Piara Powar, director of FARE UK members Kick It Out. "It is a huge opportunity for us to send out a widespread message against racism and discrimination. FARE's movement now involves 38 countries and the progress is there to be seen. Hopefully we will have a peaceful tournament in the spirit of the game."