EURO unites against racism
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Article summary
A reception featuring former players signals the start of a three-week UEFA/FARE anti-discrimination programme.
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UEFA support
The Unite Against Racism programme, run by the Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) network with UEFA's backing, will include an advertising spot broadcast at every game, 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.
Support pledged
Players involved in the tournament have already pledged their support. Spain and Real Madrid CF goalkeeper Iker Casillas said: "I hope we use this summer's festival of football to say 'no' to racism and 'yes' to harmony and respect." France midfielder Patrick Vieira also spoke in favour of the scheme. "The differing backgrounds and religions that are present in football make it such an exciting and diverse sport. Racism has no home here," said the FC Internazionale Milano man.
Player panel
The reception will feature a panel consisting of Austria's Sebastien Martinez, former Chelsea FC and Celtic FC defender Paul Elliott, Ghana coach and former 1. FC Köln and FC Metz player Anthony Baffoe, and ex-Switzerland defender Ramon Vega who represented Grasshopper-Club and Tottenham Hotspur FC among others.
Unequivocal message
UEFA vice-president Senes Erzik will address guests before the premier of the advertising spot, Different Languages, One Goal: No To Racism, which will be shown at every UEFA EURO 2008™ game. Piara Powar, director of FARE UK members Kick It Out, said: "This summer's Unite Against Racism campaign will send out an unequivocal message during a global sporting event with a reach of over eight billion TV viewers. While the battle for equality in sport will be by no means over after this summer, the partnership with UEFA is among the most dynamic in the field of sport and social issues."