FIFA has announced a new rule which states that players will be invited to make victim statements disciplinary hearings.
Stricter handling of discrimination allegations is a key theme of the redrafted FIFA disciplinary code which takes effect next week.
“Topics like racism and discrimination have been updated, putting FIFA at the forefront of the fight against this appalling attack on the fundamental human rights of individuals,” soccer’s world body said on Thursday in a statement.
The minimum ban for players or officials rises from five to10 games, and victims can soon be heard in person by FIFA judging panels.
‘FIFA will not let down victims of racist abuse,’ FIFA said, adding they ‘may be invited by the respective judicial body to make an oral or written victim impact statement.’
‘For a first offence, playing a match with a limited number of spectators and a fine of at least 20,000 Swiss francs ($20,000) shall be imposed on the association or club concerned,’ FIFA said.
In recent seasons, FIFA and European soccer body UEFA have closed cases of alleged racist abuse for lack of evidence beyond testimony of the players involved.
