Italy’s new sports minister says he will “dedicate” himself to eliminating racism from stadia in the country with “more severe and efficient sanctions”.
The problem of racism in Italian football is being reverberated around the world, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino making clear reference to it at The Best Football Awards gala in Milan last night.
Italy’s new sports minister says he will “dedicate” himself to eliminating racism from stadia in the country with “more severe and efficient sanctions”.
The problem of racism in Italian football is being reverberated around the world, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino making clear reference to it at The Best Football Awards gala in Milan last night.
There have also been changes in the Italian government as Matteo Salvini – known for having played down discrimination in the past – recently vacated his role of Deputy Prime Minister.
“Eliminating racism from society is a long and costly process which we will move forward but I will dedicate myself toward eliminating it from stadiums during my mandate — even at the cost of making unpopular decisions,” Vincenzo Spadafora told El Pais.
“The time has come for everyone to assume responsibility: institutions, politicians, federations and fans.
“Soon I will meet with all of the sports representatives to share with them a significant change, with more severe and efficient sanctions.”
Romelu Lukaku, Franck Kessie and Dalbert have all already been subjected to racial abuse in Serie A matches this season, but to date no punishments have been handed out.