EFL extends partnership with PUMA and Football Manager

The English Football League (EFL) is pleased to announce partnership extensions with global sports brand PUMA and world’s leading football management simulation title, Football Manager.

The dual partnership extensions demonstrate the EFL’s commitment to partners in its portfolios, with both brands continuing long association with the League, its clubs, and its competitions, including the Sky Bet Championship, League One, League Two, Carabao Cup and EFL Trophy.

PUMA

After signing on as the Official Match Ball partner of the EFL since the beginning of 2021/22, PUMA’s three-year extension will see the global brand produce the official match ball for all EFL competitions through to the end of the 2026/27 season.

PUMA has delivered 10,000 FIFA-approved International-standard match balls each season to the EFL and EFL clubs. This season’s PUMA Orbita ball design includes an 8-panel ball configuration, a reduction from last season's 12-panel design. These larger panels provide a better connection with the ball, enhancing players' touch and control.

These include the re-introduction of the high-vis fluorescent yellow balls used in EFL matches and competitions between November and the end of February, as well as Play-Off specific footballs to be used in all EFL Play-Off Semi-Final and Final matches.

While PUMA have grown their portfolio of global football properties in recent years, including Serie A and La Liga, the brand has entered into a number of UK focused partnerships and work with ten EFL Clubs spread across all three divisions.

FOOTBALL MANAGER

The one-year extension between the EFL and Sports Interactive, developers of the Football Manager game, ensures that all EFL clubs and competitions will continue to appear as fully licensed entities in Sports Interactive’s next release, Football Manager 2024.

After first partnering back with SEGA – of which Sports Interactive are a subsidiary of – back in 2004, EFL has granted Football Manager Official Licensee status since 2014.

Since extending for a six-year term, the EFL and Football Manager have enjoyed numerous joint campaigns including the EFL Football Manager Cup during the COVID-19 lockdown, the #FromSofaToStadium campaign to celebrate the return of fans to football post-lockdown, and the FM23 EFL Trophy Challenge.

Last season’s FM23 Challenge spanned two months and culminated with FMFC member and Bolton Wanderers fan Ian Fraser winning the opportunity of a lifetime to present the EFL Trophy to captain Ricardo Santos at Wembley in April.

EFL Chief Commercial Officer, Ben Wright said: “We have sought to partner with brands where we can develop and cultivate our partnerships and create deeper, more impactful connections with fans, customers, and communities.

“PUMA are one of the world’s leading brands and have a distinct visibility not only on competition match days, but also support some of our EFL and EFL Club’s programs and initiatives through apparel and footballs.

“Our partnership with Football Manager has also exemplifies our commercial portfolio objectives. The numbers of people playing Football Manager and engaging with EFL clubs is testament to the ever-growing popularity of the EFL.

“We thank both PUMA and Sports Interactive for the ongoing relationship and helping to continue engaging fans for this season and beyond.”

General Manager of UK&I at PUMA, Bas van den Bemt said: “Continuing our partnership with the EFL symbolizes PUMA's dedication to the heart and spirit of football in the UK. Since 2021, we've been honoured to be the Official Match Ball partner for the EFL, and this extension is a testament to the strong bond we’ve cultivated with the League, its clubs, and most importantly, the fans.

“Here’s to more shared moments, goals, and memories in the seasons to come.”

Studio Director at Sports Interactive, Miles Jacobson said: “We are delighted to announce the renewal of our partnership with the EFL.

“The League’s clubs are among the most popular with our players; in FM23, more than 40 million games were played with EFL clubs across 1.5 million unique careers. After three terrific Play-Off finals back in May, we’re looking forward to the start of the season and continuing our partnership with the EFL.”

WADA launches first phase of 2027 World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards Update Process

Today, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) launches the first phase of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code & International Standards Update Process (2027 Code & IS Update Process) for which the Agency is soliciting your feedback by 22 December 2023*.  

Background 

The World Anti-Doping Code (Code) is the core document that harmonizes anti-doping policies, rules and regulations within sport organizations and among public authorities around the world. It works in conjunction with eight International Standards which aim to foster consistency among Anti-Doping Organizations in various areas.   

The first Code was approved in January 2003, during the Second World Conference on Doping in Sport in Copenhagen. At that time, WADA committed to ensuring that the Code would be a living document subject to periodic review and that the process would be a collaborative and transparent exercise intended to further update and strengthen these documents to ensure their continued effectiveness for use and implementation.  

In keeping with that commitment, the Code and International Standards have undergone subsequent review processes which resulted in the 2009, 2015, and 2021 Codes and International Standards.  

2027 Code & IS Update Process  

On 9 May 2023, WADA’s Executive Committee endorsed the approach, timetable, and drafting teams for the 2027 Code & IS Update Process, which will involve the simultaneous review and update of the Code and International Standards.  

This is a two-year, multi-phase process, which is respectively summarized in the 2027 Code & IS Update Process – Timelines & Key Phases document and corresponding webinar presentation and is also outlined below: 

• Consideration of stakeholders’ feedback on the Code and International Standards; 

• Circulation of drafts of proposed amendments to the Code and International Standards;  

• Final versions of the Code and International Standards being presented for consideration and approval at the sixth World Conference on Doping in Sport, to be held in November 2025 in Busan, Republic of Korea; and 

• Updated 2027 Code and International Standards, entering into effect on 1 January 2027. 

The following key points should be noted:  

• Not all International Standards will require the same degree of review. For example, the International Standard for Code Compliance by Signatories (ISCCS) has recently undergone a consultation process and an updated version will come into force in 2024. Consequently, it is expected that this International Standard will not require the same breadth of update. 

• A standalone International Standard for Intelligence and Investigations will be developed and come into force, and the current International Standard for Testing and Investigations will revert to a Standard dedicated solely to testing requirements. 

• The List of Prohibited Substances and Methods, which is also an International Standard, will be updated separately as part of its distinct annual stakeholder consultation process. 

• The relevant documentation provided over the course of the process will be in English; however, finalized French versions of the updated 2027 Code and International Standards will be made available following their approval.  

2027 Code & IS Update Drafting Team Working Groups 

Nine different drafting teams – one for the Code and each International Standard – have been formally constituted as Working Groups in accordance with WADA’s Governance Regulations and will be responsible for reviewing feedback from WADA stakeholders, providing expert advice and recommendations, and drafting proposed amendments to updated versions of the Code and International Standards.  

The drafting teams are composed of internal members from WADA management and external experts from various Code Signatories and stakeholder organizations that have been appointed based on their relevant experience and knowledge in anti-doping and their areas of expertise. 

To submit feedback 

Stakeholders are invited to provide their feedback via WADAConnect, the Agency’s online consultation platform. In order to be considered for inclusion in the first drafts of the amended Code and International Standards to be published in May 2024, stakeholders must provide their feedback by: 

• *15 November 2023 for the International Standard for Education; and 

• 22 December 2023 for the Code and all other International Standards.  

Feedback is being requested on certain key concepts that have been identified as requiring consideration for update and have been organized into different ‘Concept Papers’ on WADAConnect. Stakeholders may also provide feedback on areas outside of these concepts. 

For more information related to WADAConnect, please refer to the user guide.  

In the interest of transparency, and because this is a public consultation, WADA will publish all comments received on its website at the end of the Stakeholder Engagement Phase. Stakeholder credentials, such as username, organization, and organization type, will be posted along with the comments unless WADA is otherwise notified by email at the address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

While the drafting teams will carefully consider and review all comments, it cannot be guaranteed that they will individually address different stakeholders’ comments or that a given suggestion will be included in amended and updated versions of the Code and International Standards. 

Bristol Rovers' Andrew Mangan Sanctioned Following Breach Of FA Rule E3.1

A Bristol Rovers first team coach, Andrew Mangan, has been fined £1,200, reprimanded and warned as to his future conduct by an independent Regulatory Commission for a breach of FA Rule E3.1 that happened at their EFL League One match against Plymouth Argyle on Saturday 22 October 2022.  

The FA alleged that his language and/or behaviour towards a Plymouth Argyle staff member during half time of this match was abusive and/or insulting contrary to FA Rule E3.1. The FA further alleged that his actions also constitute an “aggravated breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as they included reference, whether express or implied, to sexual orientation.

Andrew Mangan denied the charge against him and requested a personal hearing. The independent Regulatory Commission found the FA Rule E3.1 breach to be proven, but not the “aggravated breach” defined in FA Rule E3.2, and imposed these sanctions. 

EFL and Kellogg's sign five-year deal

The EFL and EFL Trust are pleased to welcome one of the UK’s most popular cereal brands, Kellogg’s, as an Official Partner.  

With football and cereal part of daily life for millions of people across England and Wales, the EFL and the EFL Trust’s network of Club Community Organisations will come together with multinational food manufacturing company Kellogg’s to positively impact the 72 communities where EFL clubs are located.

Behind the popular favourites of millions of households in the UK, such as Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies and Coco Pops, Kellogg’s will also have presence across all the EFL’s three divisions and five Wembley finals, as well as working with the EFL’s charitable arm through to the end of the 2027/28 season.

Ben Wright, Chief Commercial Officer of the EFL, said: “The EFL is excited to be joining forces with a trusted global brand in Kellogg’s and we look forward to the impact that this partnership will deliver over the coming years, with the backing of a household name.

“With growing attendances, bigger audiences and an enhanced sponsorship portfolio, the EFL’s popularity is clear. Eighty per cent of the population live within 15 miles of an EFL Club and millions of fans come through the turnstiles every month, meaning the League has the ability to forge strong connections with families on a nationwide scale.”

Cathy Abraham, Chief Executive Officer of the EFL Trust, said: “Between the EFL Trust’s vision and Kellogg’s ambition around the roles we play in our communities, we are perfectly aligned to create a significant and positive impact. Together, we will be a force for good and we will create positive moments for our communities for years to come.”

Chris Silcock, Kellogg’s UK Managing Director, said: “It’s been our great privilege to be part of British life for more than one hundred years, so it’s only right we should be joining up with another iconic institution like the EFL. Both Kellogg’s and the EFL are brands at the heart of communities up and down the country and this is the start of a great partnership.”

Melbourne Knights sanctioned for Australia Cup Quarter Final fan behaviour

Football Australia has today sanctioned Melbourne Knights FC (the Club) under the National Code of Conduct and Ethics (the Code).

The determination relates to conduct that occurred at or in relation to the Club’s Australia Cup 2023 Quarter Final against Heidelberg United FC on Thursday, 14 September 2023 (the Match).

The Club were issued with a show cause notice and provided an opportunity to respond with respect to both the alleged infringements and, if applicable, the appropriate sanction.

Based on the material available, including, but not limited to, a range of relevant matters, including the Club’s submissions, reports from various stakeholders, the nature and seriousness of the matter, the need to deter such conduct in the future and the interests of Football Australia, the Australia Cup, and the football community more broadly.

After considering these matters, the Club has been issued with a $5,000 fine, with 50% of this fine suspended for the next three (3) iterations of the Australia Cup and will be triggered in the event that it is determined that the Club has breached the Code, with such a breach including at least conduct any of the following, being any conduct related to flares or incendiary devices, damage to property in relation to a match or the competition, or throwing of projectiles onto the field of play.

The Club has been advised that Football Australia is continuing investigations into several further matters that were identified in the initial show cause notice. Football Australia has reserved its rights in respect of these matters pending the outcome of such investigation.

In accordance with the Code the Club has seven (7) business days from the date of receipt of the determination notice notify Football Australia of its intention to appeal the sanction.

Public Statement on Assessment of Out-of-Time Appeal by Allan “Rejin” Petersen

Introduction

The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) remains resolute in its mission to maintain fairness, integrity, and transparency within the esports industry. In alignment with our commitment, we have meticulously reviewed an out-of-time appeal submitted by Allan “Rejin” Petersen in May 2023, concerning a sanction originally imposed in 2020. The substance of the appeal was related to the post-facto Valve RMR sanction imposed by Valve independently and in response to ESIC’s original sanction. Importantly, the result of ESIC’s review does not modify the ESIC-imposed sanction but significantly affects the post-facto Valve RMR sanction.

Overview of the Appeal

Mr. Petersen was initially assigned 8 demerit points as a result of ESIC’s investigation into his involvement and incorrect response to the CSGO coach bug. This decision was reached after a comprehensive investigation, and the demerit points assigned to Mr. Petersen were subsequently and independently recognized by Valve and translated into a secondary Valve RMR sanction banning Mr. Petersen from Valve Majors for life.

While the original sanction by ESIC remains unaltered our adherence to the principles of natural justice and equitable treatment prompted the acceptance of the appeal, even though it was submitted almost three years after the initial sanction was imposed. The ESIC Independent Appeal Panel and the ESIC Commissioner have conducted an exhaustive review of the case, considering new evidence presented by Mr. Petersen.

Mr. Petersen has successfully substantiated that the extent of the bug exploitation was not as initially calculated. Acknowledging this new evidence and in pursuit of equity and fairness, the demerit points assigned to Mr. Petersen have been recalculated and reduced from 8 to 5.

Implications of Appeal Result

It is important to note that this recalibration does not modify the ESIC-imposed sanction (meaning ESIC in this statement is not modifying its initial sanction) but significantly affects the post-facto Valve RMR sanction. The revised demerit points alleviate the lifetime ban from Valve Majors, imposing a restriction from 5 Majors instead. Following this period, Mr. Petersen will regain eligibility to coach in subsequent Majors.

Importantly, ESIC has communicated the result of the appeal to Valve and has received notice that the result of the appeal has been accepted by Valve.

Acknowledgements

ESIC extends its appreciation to Valve for facilitating open and collaborative communications on this matter and for reviewing and accepting the appeal.

ESIC also acknowledges Mr. Petersen for his cooperation and transparency throughout the investigation process. His prompt admission and invaluable contribution, notably being one of the first coaches to disclose the existence of the bug, were instrumental in facilitating our inquiry.

ESIC is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the core values of the esports industry and will continue to implement rigorous measures to ensure fairness and integrity. Our resolve to uphold the highest standards of integrity within the esports industry remains steadfast.

EFL Statement: Mr Yongge Dai

Reading FC’s owner, Mr Yongge Dai, has been charged with misconduct after failing to comply with the order of an independent Disciplinary Commission which required him to deposit an amount equal to 125% of the Club’s forecast monthly wage bill in a designated account by 12 September.

The League considers these further proceedings against him personally are necessary given the repeated failings in meeting the Club’s funding requirements which have only a detrimental impact on the Club and its wider stakeholders.

This matter will now be considered by an independent Disciplinary Commission in accordance with EFL Regulations. 

Sanction - Triathlon

On September 15, 2023 the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Lausanne, Switzerland) set aside the decision rendered by the World Triathlon on September 12, 2022 which made the athlete Riasova Valentina ineligible for a period of 6 months for the violation under art. 2.1 and art. 2.2 of the World Triathlon Anti-Doping Rules.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport upheld the appeal of RUSADA and rendered the decision which made the Athlete ineligible for a period of 2 years, namely between September 15, 2023 and March 14, 2025, with credit for the served period of ineligibility, namely between September 12, 2022 and March 11, 2023.

FIFA publishes Football Tribunal Report 2022/2023

FIFA has today published the second edition of the Football Tribunal Report, which covers the period from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023.

The report provides a comprehensive overview of the Football Tribunal’s activities as well as those of the FIFA Players’ Status Department, which is part of the FIFA Legal & Compliance Division and acts as a secretariat to the Football Tribunal. During the period in question, the department received a record number of 18,353 cases, applications and enquiries, compared to 14,540 in the 2021/2022 period, with 2022/2023 representing a new all-time high for the Players’ Status Department.

The Football Tribunal, which is composed of three chambers: the Players’ Status Chamber, the Dispute Resolution Chamber and the Agents Chamber, was implemented on 1 October 2021 to consolidate the existing FIFA decision-making bodies into a single umbrella body.

As Emilio Garcia Silvero, FIFA Chief Legal and Compliance officer has iterated: “FIFA will continue to modernise its regulatory framework and dispute resolution system in line with its vision for 2020-2023 in order to further facilitate and streamline all proceedings before the decision making and judicial bodies, while maintaining the highest level of quality, transparency and traceability for all football stakeholders.”

In this context, since 1 May 2023, all proceedings before the Football Tribunal outside the FIFA Transfer Matching system are exclusively initiated and conducted through the FIFA Legal Portal which was launched a year earlier. The portal is a modern online platform that enables football stakeholders and legal representatives to lodge a claim and follow the relevant proceedings before the Football Tribunal in a fully digital, user-friendly environment.

The Football Tribunal Report 2022/2023 is available here and at www.fifa.com/legal.

Official Statement | RFEF Commitment

The RFEF wishes to convey to the members of the National Team the public commitment made by the new leadership of the institution that governs football in Spain.

The objective is to clearly articulate, without internal or external interpretations, the strategic pillars in this new stage of the Federation that both football and society demand.

The Federation itself is aware of the need for structural changes, as already announced by the President of the Interim Commission, Pedro Rocha, and has begun to materialize them in recent times.

This conviction has led to difficult decisions in recent days that will continue to be made, as there is a firm belief that renewal is necessary.

In this regard, it is absolutely essential, to carry out these changes, to clarify each of the behaviors and actions that may have occurred and, therefore, act with professionalism and justice, determining the relevant responsibilities in each case.

It is evident that the Federation, society, and the players themselves are aligned with the same objective: the renewal and the beginning of a new phase where football is the main beneficiary of this entire process.

Hence, players are urged to join this change led by the Federation, understanding that the ongoing transformations must be robust and fair.

We guarantee a safe environment for the players and advocate for a climate of mutual trust so that we can work together and ensure that women's football continues to progress much stronger.

We must begin to proudly display the star that the players have achieved with so much effort.

AFC forges new exclusive commercial partnership with Asia Football Group

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is pleased to announce the Asia Football Group (AFG) as its new exclusive commercial partner for the 2023-2028 term with immediate effect in a strategic decision to further solidify and enhance the Confederation’s financial sustainability. 

The Dubai-registered AFG have been selected as the dedicated partner for the AFC to achieve its ambitions and drive the sport's growing commercial success across the world, with the partnership enabling the Confederation to secure its financial future and set the stage for the continued growth and development of football in Asia.

The new commercial arrangement with AFG has been put in place after the evaluation and consideration of proposals from potential partners, with the AFC Executive Committee concluding that AFG’s expertise and vision not only align with the AFC’s wider objectives, but also ensure the continuity of service during this period to the AFC, its commercial partners and football stakeholders.

AFG are an integrated sports marketing agency highly experienced in delivering the full spectrum of services and achieving various business outputs, reinforcing the assurance of a smooth transition from the AFC’s previous commercial partners.

The new commercial deal enables the AFC to continue its investment into its Member Associations and Regional Associations, deliver all its popular competitions, grow its fanbase, and cultivate a flourishing football community across the Continent.

The AFC looks forward to a fruitful collaboration with AFG in the confidence that the partnership will take the game to new heights, continuing the Asian football success story.

Joint Statement: A National Inquiry into Abuse in Sport must be Top Priority for the Government of Canada to Protect Canadian Children and Athletes

For over 18 months, Canadian athletes, advocates, scholars, and allies have been calling for the Government of Canada to initiate a national inquiry into the toxic culture of abuse that, as we have sadly come to learn, exists across all levels of Canadian sport.

It was the thousands of athlete voices that began this call but as evidence has mounted during the months of hearings before the Canadian Heritage Committee and the Standing Committee on the Status of Women, the call for an inquiry has been joined by the Canadian Olympic Committee, Own the Podium, the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, the Canadian Human Rights Commission, Canadian Women and Sport, the Coaching Association of Canada, Scholars Against Abuse in Canadian Sport, and high profile USA advocates Judge Rosemarie Aquilina and Rachael Denhollander.

With Parliament resuming this month and the appointment of a new Sports Minister in the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, we reinforce that a national inquiry must be a priority to protect Canadian children and athletes. The calls for this inquiry will not diminish. The need will only continue to grow and without a robust solution, the problems will continue to fester.

We cannot waste any more time. We must act to end child abuse and human rights violations occurring in Canadian sport. A national inquiry must happen without further delay. 

Click here or see below to watch the video for those advocating for an inquiry.

FIS Release Cross-Country Code of Conduct

The FIS Code of Conduct of Skiers and Snowboarders has become international adopted for the safety of skier and snowboarders on the pistes. However not all rules can be applied to all FIS disciplines. As such, FIS has now released a Cross-Country specific Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct is as follows:

1. Respect for others:

Cross-country skiers must ski in such a manner that they do not endanger or prejudice others.

2. Respects for signs:

Trail marking signs must be adhered to at all times.

3. Choice of tracks:

On cross-country trails with multiple tracks, skiers must stick to the right hand track unless overtaking. It is also imperative that skating skiers remain on the skating tracks and do not cross into the classic tracks.

4. Overtaking:

A skier ahead is not obliged to give way to an overtaking skier. However, when possible the slower skier should allow faster skiers to overtake. When being overtaken, the slower skier should move to the right.

5. Encounter:

Cross-country skiers meeting while skiing in opposite directions shall keep to the right. Climbing skiers should give way to descending skiers.

6. Poles:

Cross-country skiers shall make the utmost effort to keep their poles close to the body whenever near other skiers.

7. Control of Speed:

Cross-country skiers, especially when descending, must always ski at a speed in which they can stop safely. All skiers should also keep a safe distance from the skiers ahead.

8. Keep the trail clear:

Skiers who stops must leave the track. In case of a fall, skiers should leave the track as quickly as possible.

9. Accidents:

In case of an accident, all persons should provide assistance.

10. Identification:

All witnesses to an accident, whether responsible or not, must remain at the scene of the accident and provide their identification.

In addition to undergoing a formal approval process, FIS has taken the step to translate the Cross-County Code of Conduct into 11 languages. These include German, French, Italian, Polish, Finnish, Norwegian amongst many others. The Cross-Country Code of Conduct is open to all. The English text can be downloaded here and translations can be requested via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

UEFA and ECA sign landmark agreement to bolster European football's future

UEFA and the European Club Association (ECA) have today signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that extends their cooperation until 2030. Building on a relationship which now spans over fifteen years, the new MoU will elevate their partnership to bolster long-term stability and sustainable growth in European club football.

At the heart of this agreement lies a full commitment to strengthen the core principles of the European football pyramid championed by fans across Europe. This includes the central role of UEFA as the European governing body and the open system of promotion and relegation that ultimately culminates in qualification for an open model of European competitions.

The revamped agreement aligns the cooperative efforts of both organisations with the evolving landscape of the men's and women’s international match calendar and the forthcoming structural changes to men's UEFA club competitions, effective from the 2024/25 season that will bring more opportunities for more clubs, but also for players and supporters alike, while keeping the pyramid open and democratic.

A central element of this agreement is the shared priority to nurture European club football at every level. This will manifest through a new revenue distribution model for the 2024-2027 cycle, boasting an unprecedented increase of solidarity payments that will benefit clubs in domestic league competitions.

The share reserved in the new cycle to clubs not participating in the league phase of UEFA competitions will increase to a total of 10%: besides the 3% reserved for clubs eliminated in the qualifying rounds, the share for clubs which have not participated at all will grow to 7%, (up from the current 4%), securing €440m per season – being €1.32bn over the cycle – in what is the sole redistribution scheme for clubs at a pan-European level. The new distribution system for participating clubs will give greater focus to participation (from 25% to 27,5% will be shared equally) and performance (from 30% to 37,5%), while the existing two pillars of market pool and coefficient will be merged and reduced (from 45% to 35%). Full details of the new system will be disclosed as soon as the technical work has concluded.

The MoU also captures the evolution of UEFA Club Competitions SA – the joint venture between UEFA and the ECA – to further drive the commercial development of UEFA’s club competitions.

The new agreement also mirrors the remarkable strides taken in the development of women’s football. UEFA and the ECA are united in their drive to enhance competitions, fostering the growth of the next generation of talented female players, and establishing the bedrock for a resilient and sustainable women's football ecosystem and business model.

Finally, the renewed MoU continues to prioritise critical issues such as environmental, social and corporate governance as well as financial sustainability to secure the overall well-being of European football.

UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said: "This new MoU builds upon the solid foundation of cooperation between UEFA and the ECA to enhance the open and values-based European football pyramid celebrated by fans worldwide. It will bring continuity, stability and healthy growth that will benefit every corner of Europe. I would like to thank the ECA Executive Board and its Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi for their efforts in making this renewed agreement become a reality. Our cooperation will strengthen European football, and we look forward to it resulting in the further development and success of the game."

ECA Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi said: “This renewed Memorandum of Understanding between ECA and UEFA until 2030 is fantastic news for all European clubs, and for everyone concerned with the stability and prosperity of European club football. The MoU formalises agreements between UEFA and ECA on a wide range of governance, representation, regulatory, financial and sporting matters and establishes solid foundations for the continued development of European club football.

“As the ECA family continues to rapidly multiply in size, representing clubs of all sizes in all corners of Europe, we very much look forward to our continued constructive, collaborative and trusted relationship with UEFA, ECA’s most important partner.”

This latest MoU reaffirms UEFA's steadfast commitment to democratic governance, building upon its earlier decision to incorporate the perspectives of players (via FIFPRO Europe) and fans (via Football Supporters Europe) alongside those of leagues and clubs in its decision-making process. This approach is aimed at nurturing an even more inclusive, resilient, and transparent governance framework for European football.

Millwall's Head Of Youth Recruitment, Barry Dunn, Suspended For Eight Weeks

Millwall's head of youth recruitment, Barry Dunn, has been suspended from all football and football related activity for eight weeks with immediate effect, fined £525, ordered to attend a mandatory face-to-face education programme and has received a reprimand and warning as to his future conduct, for a breach of misconduct in relation to social media activity. 

It was alleged that he interacted with a social media post that is insulting and/or indecent and/or improper contrary to FA Rule E3.1. 

It was further alleged this activity constitutes an 'aggravated breach', which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as the post included a reference - whether express or implied - to religion or belief.

Barry Dunn admitted the charge and his sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent Regulatory Commission following a personal hearing.

Approval of IWF Strategic Plan and further improvement of governance reform among key decisions expected in Riyadh

The IWF is set to take a number of key decisions during the upcoming Congress and Executive Board meeting in Riyadh as it pushes ahead with reforming the organisation and establishing a clear plan for a stronger future.

The meetings will take place on the occasion of the IWF World Championships, which will feature around 700 athletes from 120 nations, including all 20 current world champions, as athletes compete for Paris 2024 Olympic qualification.

During the IWF Congress on September 12, National Federations will vote to approve the IWF Strategic Plan 2024-2032 which was developed following the broadest-ever consultation in the sport’s history. The plan provides a roadmap for weightlifting’s global development as the IWF looks to shape a new future as a clean, athlete-centred, and well-governed modern sport.

The Congress will also vote on proposed amendments to the IWF Constitution to provide better understanding and clarity, ensuring the document serves its purpose as an effective tool of governance.

Ahead of the Congress, the IWF Executive Board will approve the implementation process of the Athlete Gender Identity Policy which has been in force since August 1 and aims to promote inclusion while also respecting the integrity of competitions. The EB will also approve the Terms of Reference for the IWF Safety and Integrity Officer which was recently created by the IWF to enhance athlete safeguarding.

Speaking ahead of the key meetings, IWF President Mohammed Jalood said:

“Riyadh will be a momentous occasion for the IWF both on and off the field of play. Over 14 days of elite competition we will celebrate the world’s very best athletes as they compete for world titles and all-important Paris 2024 qualification. And away from the competition our Congress and Executive Board will take important decisions to safeguard our athletes and deliver the strongest possible future for our sport.

“The collaborative Strategic Plan 2024-2032 is critical in providing a clear framework for weightlifting and ensuring clean athletes and good governance are at the heart of our work. The implementation plan of the Athlete Gender Identity Policy and terms of IWF Safety and Integrity Officer also demonstrates our commitment to our athletes and ensuring they have an inclusive, safe, and fair environment to compete in.”

Brazil’s National Basketball League extends official data & integrity partnership with Genius Sports

Brazil’s National Basketball League (“LNB”) and Genius Sports have struck a long-term extension of their exclusive official data and integrity partnership ahead of the new season, starting on October 21.

As the trusted partner to over 200 basketball leagues and federations globally, Genius Sports will provide FIBA LiveStats across all LNB competitions, capturing and distributing official, play-by-play statistics to power in-stadia scoreboards, league and team social media channels and other fan-facing digital platforms. This official live game data feed is integral to all LNB live broadcasts and is also distributed to sportsbooks worldwide to power real-time betting markets. 

“This key strategic business partnership between Genius Sports and the National Basketball League (LNB) helps us achieve a range of commercial goals. Both companies have an innovative DNA and Genius Sports' technological solutions enable the LNB’s live game data to be used by our technical teams and enjoyed by our fans with speed and accuracy. Likewise, Genius guarantees the secure distribution of information to those who like to have fun betting on basketball games”, says Rodrigo Franco Montoro, president of the National Basketball League.

Crucially, Genius Sports will also continue to safeguard the LNB from the threats of match-fixing and betting-related corruption. Since 2016, Genius Sports has provided LNB with educational services and its 24/7 bet monitoring system which analyses global betting odds movements on Brazilian basketball and provides specialist technology to detect suspicious betting activity. In March 2023, LNB became the first league to join the Associação Brasileira de Defesa da Integridade do Esporte’s (“ABRADIE”), the primary Brazilian integrity coalition founded by Genius Sports alongside Entain, Rei do Pitaco, and Bichara e Motta Advogados

“As one of the largest basketball leagues in Latin America, we’re delighted to extend our partnership with LNB,” said Guilherme Buso, Senior Account Executive at Genius Sports. “Whilst continuing to help the LNB fight betting-related corruption head on, our technology will equip all LNB competitions with fast, accurate and official data to power their interactions with fans, broadcasters and sportsbooks on a global scale.”

AFC Development Committee reinforces tailormade support for MAs and RAs

The ever-expanding impact of the AFC Enhance Programme in bringing to life the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s Mission of providing dedicated services to maximise the potential of its members continued its strong momentum today after the AFC Development Committee for the 2023 to 2027 term approved several proposals at its first meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Led by Chairperson Yasser H. Almisehal, the Committee received a comprehensive update on the AFC Enhance Programme Regulations and approved the applications from the Qatar Football Association, the Lebanese Football Association, The Football Association of Thailand, Tajikistan Football Federation, Lao Football Federation, The Football Association of Hong Kong, China Limited as well as the AFC Enhance Programme – Extra-Time proposal from The Kyrgyz Football Union.

No Excuse For Sideline Abuse

Whether you’re involved in sport at the elite level or watching a team of enthusiastic five-year-olds bouncing, passing or kicking a ball in the grassroots environment, it’s possible you might have seen poor sideline behaviour in sport at some stage.

Although the vast majority of spectators cheer and support their kids and teams with joy and passion, there are growing instances where verbal and online abuse is directed at players, referees, coaches, support staff, other spectators and even volunteers.

It has an impact not only on the mental health of individuals but on the people around them and is being seen as a continuing threat to the integrity of sport in Australia and overseas.

In September 2022, we published a story in Sport Integrity Matters magazine about “The Ugly Side of Sport” after speaking to a referee, coach, club volunteer, player and journalist to get their perspectives on the toll sideline abuse is taking.

Reflecting on his own career Ben Williams, a retired A-League, Asian Football Confederation and FIFA World Cup referee, said: “Unfortunately many young referees don’t get to experience these phenomenal moments because they’ve left their career early due to abuse.”

“In my career I encountered death threats directed at my wife and my children, which meant they no longer felt safe in their own home. There is definitely no place for this in sport.”

A community sports club president, Neil Harlock, cited a scourge of abuse in his sport which not only impacted the mental health of players but flowed through to club volunteers, the referee base and spectators.

“To hear threats and slurs from the crowd firstly renders as disbelief among the team, clear shock and emotion can be seen, which then affects performances,” he said about the abuse directed at his National Premier League first grade men’s team.

“It then manifests as insecurity as this is essentially their workplace for the time they are on and around the field.

“At the grassroots and amateur level in a very large club essentially run by volunteers, we often feel limited in what we can do from a safety and security point of view. There’s the feeling that there’s a potential and very real danger.”

Discussions between sporting organisations, clubs and government suggest that some sports are becoming increasingly competitive from a younger age with high emotion attached from the spectator base, thus leading to undue pressure being placed on kids which flows through to coaches and officials. 

Let Kids Be Kids is a national campaign created by Play by the Rules to help clubs at grassroots level bring policies to life and actively address poor sideline behaviour via posters, toolkits and campaign messaging.

Elaine Heaney, National Manager of Play By The Rules, would much rather kids turn up to practice and had fun playing with their friends than forced into a situation where they are being yelled at or berated for not winning a game or making a call whilst they are still learning the rules and developing their skills. 

“Adult sideline spectators often mean well and are enthusiastic about their contributions, because they enjoy being part of the process,” said Elaine, “but sometimes it’s important to stop to think about the impact of their words on the child or young person – and how it feels for a small human to have a large adult raise their voice at them.

“If the child or young person (or even another adult) feels berated or upset by what has been said, is it worth it?  It’s not about removing winning or healthy competition from sport but about focusing on the fact that happy, healthy athletes operating in a safe space, often produce much better results, and keep people playing the sports we love.”

From grassroots to elite sport, the problem often grows as the stakes get higher.

Jenna O’Hea, former Australian Opals captain, feels the popularity of betting has added another layer of abuse of athletes with people losing money often blaming the athletes for their financial loss.

“This is where I see it is getting worse and is taking the biggest toll on athletes,” she said.

“As athletes we know that fans are passionate about sport but crossing the line with personal attacks, racism, any type of attack is never OK and just because you’re behind a keyboard, that doesn’t make it any less abusive than a face-to-face attack.”

Each situation and experience with poor sideline behaviour and online abuse in sport is different, with some impacts short-term and others everlasting. Regardless of the magnitude and severity there’s no place for sideline abuse in sport at any level.

In summing up his experiences, community club president Neil Harlock said, “My seven-year-old daughter came to me recently and said ‘Dad, were there any fights at the footy today?’ I was mortified!”

“Our children deserve more than this. Our players, volunteers, young referees, coaches and the families who come to cheer on their teams, all deserve more than this.”

Statement from United States of America Olympic Figure Skater Vincent Zhou

It has been 595 days since my teammates and I earned medals at the Olympics. We still have not received them.

You may remember what happened. Representing Team USA, we placed second in the Figure Skating Team Event at the 2022 Winter Olympics. We were bested only by the Russian team, with Japan finishing third and Canada fourth. On the day that we were scheduled to receive our medals, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) cancelled the ceremony due to a “situation” that required a “legal consultation.” The IOC assured us that they would do their “utmost to make sure it [was] resolved as quickly as possible.”

The “situation’s” focal point was Russian skater Kamila Valieva’s positive drug test. Her urine sample, collected more than six weeks earlier but only just analyzed, contained the prohibited substance trimetazidine. The positive test would ordinarily have nullified Team Russia’s results immediately, and the awards ceremony could have proceeded as planned, with us, the Japanese team and the Canadian team receiving medals. However, the Russian Disciplinary Anti-Doping Commission (DADC), supported by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), decided that different anti-doping rules may apply to Valieva because she was only 15 years old at the time of the competition. So, for the first time in modern Olympic history, no medals were awarded.

While there are significant economic costs associated with not receiving an Olympic medal (sponsors love medals), the real harm has come from the way the “situation” has been handled by sport administrators.

In the 19 months since we took the ice in Beijing, my teammates and I have heard almost nothing from the officials handling the case, and we have no reason to believe that our interests are being adequately represented. This week, a hearing is scheduled at CAS that will pit the IOC, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), and the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) against Valieva and the Russian DADC. The idea that such a hearing will serve the interests of clean athletes is absurd - the Russian “Anti-Doping” Agency has been facilitating Russian doping for over a decade. The IOC, for its part, has repeatedly refused to hold Russia accountable for a state-sponsored doping program involving more than 1,000 athletes. WADA, which is controlled by the IOC through a governing agreement with public authorities, reinstated the Russian Anti-Doping Agency in 2018 despite the agency’s refusal to turn over data detailing the extent of Russian doping. And the “court” in next week’s hearing, CAS, which is an arm of the IOC (its president is the IOC vice-president), has repeatedly sided with Russia – first in overturning sanctions of Russian athletes and then in watering down subsequent sanctions on Russia and RUSADA. Who in this panoply of actors represents the interests of me and my teammates, and furthermore, the interests of the broader sporting community?

We asked to be allowed to observe the upcoming hearing. In response, we were told that CAS hearings are confidential – closed even to those of us directly affected by the proceedings. We were told that either of the involved parties could request a public hearing, but that neither did. For that reason, the proceedings will happen behind closed doors.

An open and transparent hearing would go a long way towards helping athletes understand any decision that is rendered. Transparency would build confidence in a global anti-doping system that has lost the trust of its most important stakeholders: athletes. In contrast, asking the parties themselves to decide whether the hearing will be public is akin to asking them whether their actions should be scrutinized by outsiders. Unsurprisingly, they chose to act with impunity and to avoid public accountability.

The situation we found ourselves in at the Beijing Games and the painful process that we have endured since are a direct result of decisions made by the IOC, WADA, and CAS. The global sport administrators allowed Russian athletes to compete in the past four Olympics, including Beijing, despite the country’s state-sponsored doping program. The program is widely known to have corrupted multiple Olympic Games and defrauded thousands of athletes. Also, the Russian government has obstructed the pursuit of justice by manipulating data, destroying laboratories, and going so far as to murder whistleblowers in order to undermine investigations. And yet, the Russian team has not been excluded from a single Olympic Games.

Valieva’s positive drug test is not an isolated incident. My teammates and I are aware of widespread doping by other Russian skaters – and this, unfortunately, should surprise no one, given that a non-compliant anti-doping organization is still tasked with ensuring the integrity of sport inside Russia. Valieva and her teammates would never have been placed in this position if the IOC, WADA, and CAS had done their jobs and banned Russia from global sport. But, because of the inaction of sport administrators, Russia has never been incentivized to reform. Athletes both inside and outside of Russia have borne the cost.

As my team’s empty medal boxes show, the global anti-doping system is failing athletes. The revered elitism of the Olympics is dependent upon the principles of clean sport and fair competition. Yet, the governing bodies that are tasked to observe and enforce these principles continuously act against their supposed missions and fail to act on behalf of the people for whom they exist to serve: the athletes. Whenever finally held, the awards ceremony for the Beijing 2022 Figure Skating Team Event will be a symbol of the gross failures of the IOC, CAS, RUSADA, and other global sporting administrators. Justice delayed is justice denied, and my teammates and I will never get back the chance to stand before the world to celebrate a lifetime's worth of hard work culminating in a career-defining achievement. We have been forever prevented from experiencing the moment that every athlete dreams of – and ultimately, the organizations assumed to protect and create such moments are instead responsible for the emptiness of our success.

Position of the Russian Anti-Doping Agency regarding the decision of the WADA Executive Committee

According to Article 20.5 of the World Anti-Doping Code (hereinafter Code), it is not within the authority of a national anti-doping organization, such as RUSADA, to amend national legislation (in this case, the laws of the Russian Federation). RUSADA is not a governmental body, does not have the right to issue any legislation and has no right of legislative initiative.

Article 23.2 of the Code states that "The Signatories shall implement applicable Code provisions through policies, statutes, rules or regulations according to their authority and within their relevant spheres of responsibility."

The Code is implemented in Russia through the All-Russian Anti-Doping Rules, which are enacted in accordance with the Federal Law "On Physical Culture and Sport in the Russian Federation" of December 4, 2007, No. 329-FZ.

RUSADA has taken extensive measures to reinstate the agency's compliance status within the framework of its functions and powers. To date, WADA has not received any complaints about RUSADA's work regarding the application of the CAS Award.

RUSADA is currently evaluating the documents received to determine whether a notice of disagreement with WADA's decision is required. The subject of compliance evaluation may be brought to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne in the event of notice.

RUSADA continues to carry out its functions without limitations and in strict accordance with international standards and regulations.

FIFA and UNODC renew Memorandum of Understanding to kick crime out of football

FIFA and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have reinforced their joint-commitment to kicking crime out of football by renewing their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly.

Signed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly while both are in New York alongside the world leaders and influential global figures gathered at the United Nations (UN), the MoU commits both parties to stepping up their efforts to protect the integrity of the game.

Equally, safeguarding forms part of the MoU as it has become a core aspect of the joint-cooperation, and FIFA and UNODC will continue to work to ensure the football environment is protected for children, young adults, and vulnerable athletes, while also developing capacities and raise awareness of tackling corruption and crime in and through football. Additionally, both parties agreed to support the development of a new UNODC global network aimed at enhancing collaboration and coordination between law enforcement anti-corruption authorities and sports organisations.

"Football unites people from all corners of the world – young and old, boys and girls. It can promote healthy lifestyles, provide new opportunities, and inspire millions to achieve their goals both on and off the pitch,” said Ms Waly.

“I am proud that UNODC and FIFA are renewing our commitment to ensure fair play for all and to defend football’s integrity for the millions of fans worldwide, the players, and the next generations still to come. With this new Memorandum of Understanding, we’re striving to put an end to match-fixing, bribery, and corruption, to preserve the game’s beauty for all," stated Ms Waly.

Mr Infantino said: “Through the renewal of this Memorandum of Understanding, I am pleased that UNODC and FIFA have reinforced our joint commitment to kicking crime out of football, and that both organisations remain committed to ensuring fair play and to defending football’s integrity.

“FIFA has already done a lot of good work with the UNODC in making football cleaner and we will continue to work towards giving girls and boys around the world the chance to fulfil their dreams on the pitch.”

AFC Champions League™ paves way for PMAs to realise VAR ambitions

Kuala Lumpur: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s continuous efforts to empower its Member Associations (MAs) reached a significant milestone when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was introduced to the AFC Champions League™ 2023/24 Group Stage matches for the first time earlier this week. 

Implemented from the Knockout Stage since 2020, the 2023/2024 edition will mark the fourth instance of the AFC employing the use of the technology in the competition. 

Spot the signs of concussion and safely manage recovery with British racing’s new learning module

• Concussion learning module available now for free on Racing2Learn
• Recommended for those in British racing working in horse-facing roles
• Offers racing-specific guidance, underpinned by expert medical advice

British racing has today launched a new online concussion awareness learning module to help those working with and around horses spot the signs of concussion and return safely to work following a head injury.

Concussion is an injury to the brain that can occur after falling from a horse or after any impact to the head or body. It is the third most common injury for jockeys, but can happen to anyone in racing – on the racecourse, riding out on the gallops or even in the training yard.

Given the higher-risk nature of our sport, remaining at the forefront of concussion management is a priority for British racing, with education around how to recognise and recover from head injuries central to this approach.

The new learning module is available now on Racing2Learn and builds on existing medical advice and British racing’s robust jockey protocols to provide industry-specific concussion guidance to everyone working in horse-facing roles.

Developed by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and funded by the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) and the Racing Foundation, the module helps participants:

• Recognise how concussion looks and feels – and how to spot it in others
• Remove a person with suspected concussion to a safe place and seek medical advice
• Recover from concussion, allowing sufficient time for the brain to heal
• Return safely and gradually to riding and horse-facing roles.

The guidance recommends taking time to rest and recover in the first 24-48 hours following a concussion, with minimal activity, reduced screen time, plenty of sleep and seeking medical support via NHS 111 or a GP if symptoms don’t start to settle.

It also advises against riding or any tasks that may result in head impact or injury for a minimum of 21 days following concussion, with the gradual return to activity helping reduce the risk of further injury or longer-term problems.

While aimed primarily at those working directly with horses, such as jockeys, trainers and stable employees, the advice is also applicable to those in support roles, like valets and racecourse teams, who may be well placed to help spot and help manage concussion in others.

Those taking the module will also have access to a suite of downloadable resources, which offer further guidance around symptoms, recovery, and rehabilitation, together with signposting to additional support services.

The guidance has been developed by medical experts and racing professionals in line with the UK Government’s grassroots sport guidelines, If in doubt, sit them out, so that it adheres to best practice health advice, while ensuring it is this relevant to managing concussion within the racing environment.

Jockeys and riders licensed by the BHA (amateurs and professionals) should note that while they are encouraged to complete the module to help improve their own understanding of concussion, their return to race riding following head injury will continue to be managed by the BHA Medical Department in partnership with the IJF.

Dr Jerry Hill, the BHA’s Chief Medical Adviser, said:

“Given the risks associated with our sport, we take concussion very seriously and already have comprehensive protocols in place to ensure the highest standards of care, attention, and rehabilitation for our jockeys.

“But concussion can happen anywhere, at any time, and this new learning module has been developed to enhance the way we support racing’s wider workforce, with industry-specific guidance on spotting the signs of concussion, managing recovery and the safe return to work.

“This is an incredibly useful resource for anyone in British racing working with or around horses, which can help improve understanding of concussion and reduce the risk of serious injury. We are very grateful to the teams at the IJF and the Racing Foundation for making this possible.”

Lisa Hancock, Chief Executive of the Injured Jockeys Fund, said:

“Our experience of supporting jockeys with concussion does highlight that prompt recognition of the signs and active management of the symptoms can really help aid recovery.

“These guidelines are written to help protect the long-term health of any rider, jockey or anyone who works around horses who might have sustained a concussion injury.”

Tansy Challis, Chief Executive Officer of the Racing Foundation, said:

“This new, online learning module demonstrates how proactive the racing industry is at ensuring it remains at the forefront of concussion management and at maintaining its reputation as a leader in the wider sporting context.

“Given the risks associated with the racing environment, it’s crucial that everyone can recognise the signs of concussion as soon as possible and identify the most suitable recovery and rehabilitation pathways.

“We hope that through this accessible and digestible way of learning about concussion, we will be able to reduce the risks both to individuals and those around them. We encourage everyone to complete the module on the free Racing2Learn platform.”

Eight charged under the Emirates Cricket Board Anti-Corruption Code

Equal Pay Day: FIFPRO remains committed to securing equal prize money for players

• 18 September marks International Equal Pay Day, raising awareness about unequal pay to women and pushing to close the gender pay gap
  
  
• FIFPRO, members unions and women’s internationals helped secure equal regulations and conditions, and a fair redistribution of prize money for Women’s World Cup players
  
  
• While the first step on the pathway to equality has been taken, for many players the fight for fair and timely payment has just begun

On UN Equal Pay Day, FIFPRO reaffirms its commitment to fighting alongside women all over the world to ensure there is equal pay for equal work.

The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup was a breakthrough on the pathway to equality, with the introduction of per-player performance-based prize money and equal conditions.

Ahead of the Women’s World Cup FIFPRO, its member unions, and 150 international footballers from 25 countries stood united in the largest piece of collective action undertaken in women’s football which helped secure equal regulations and conditions, fair redistribution of prize money to players, and a pathway to equal prize money at the tournament.

The collective action achieved:

1) Player prize money allocation

Each individual player at the Women's World Cup was allocated performance-based funding. Every player at Australia/New Zealand earned at least USD 30,000, with players from the winning team each receiving USD 270,000.

2) Equal conditions

The conditions and service levels offered to each team at the 2023 Women’s World Cup were identical to those at the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar.

• The delegation size for all PMAs was set at up to 50 people;
• Each delegation had the option of accommodating players in single or twin rooms, or a combination of both, according to their preferences;
• Identical processes to men's World Cup for class of international travel, level of in-competition domestic travel, implementation of team base camp concepts, and standard of accommodation were in place.

3) Increased prize money

In addition to doubling to USD 31m the preparation funding already distributed to all PMAs, an additional total pot of USD 110m was allocated to the Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 that was distributed to teams on the basis of team performance at the tournament.

The path to equal pay

While the first step on the pathway to equality has been taken, for many players the fight for fair, timely payment has just begun.

That is why, on this UN Equal Pay Day, we celebrate the achievements and progress made, but more importantly we focus on what is ahead – pay equity for the men’s and Women’s World Cup in 2026 and 2027, and continuing to raise the floor for players globally.

What the players said

Alex Morgan (USA): “I'll continue to challenge the systemic norms that exist today, so that we do have an equal seat at the table – and part of that is the working conditions for the World Cup. As the women's game grows, as accessibility and visibility grows, and as our fan base grows, we do expect to see the result of that – which is better working conditions, more compensation. That’s a big piece of it, but we need to start somewhere.”

Lucy Bronze (England): “In every single country in the world, there's still something missing or something that could be done a lot better. The fact we've got that collective goal means that together we feel that common goal – and everybody knows that strength comes in numbers. When we inspire each other, the voice becomes louder."

Ali Riley (New Zealand): "I believe that we as women’s players deserve the same conditions as our male counterparts – and we're working hard to prove that. Having equal pay at the World Cup would be one step in the right direction."

The Olympic Council of Asia Openly Threatens and Silences Athletes

With less than a week before the start of the Asian Games in China, the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has publicly threatened athletes with the removal of accreditation should they decide to exercise their fundamental right to freedom of expression.

The OCA’s archaic approach to limiting athletes’ rights to freedom of expression is a clear demonstration that sport systems continue to believe they can operate in silo without adherence to globally accepted human rights. This decision from the OCA appears to favour China’s authoritarian rule of law that rejects freedom of expression over every athlete’s civil liberties.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “everyone has the right to freedom of expression; this right includes freedom to impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” The Asian Games is a media of communication to the world, and the organisation’s leadership cannot be a barrier to human rights.

Global Athlete hopes every athlete attending the Asian Games uses the United Nations Human Rights Declaration to guide their decision on when and where to exercise their right to stand up for social and racial injustices that they wish to support. Outdated “sport rules” should never supersede basic human rights.

If athletes want to speak up – in a way that respects the rights and freedoms of others as detailed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – the sport community should embrace their diverse opinions. Silencing athletes should never be tolerated, and to threaten them with removal from the Asian Games highlights the imbalance of power between sport leaders and athletes.

Silencing the athlete voice within sporting organisations has led to oppression, discrimination, and abuse of athletes – restricting their basic human rights has, and will, do the same.

THE COURT OF ARBITRATION FOR SPORT (CAS) HEARING IN THE ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING RUSADA, THE ISU, WADA AND KAMILA VALIEVA WILL START ON 26 SEPTEMBER 2023

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) confirms the following arrangements for the hearing in the arbitration procedures CAS 2023/A/9451 Association Russian AntiDoping Agency (RUSADA) v. Kamila Valieva, CAS 2023/A/9455 International Skating Union (ISU) v. Kamila Valieva, Association Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA), and CAS 2023/A/9456 World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) v. Association Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) & Kamila Valieva): 

The hearing will take place on 26, 27 and 28 September 2023, with 29 September 2023 being a reserve day. It will be held at the CAS Headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, although the Panel will hear some parties, witnesses and experts via video-conference, including Ms Kamila Valieva and the representatives of RUSADA.

The parties to the proceedings: RUSADA, the ISU, WADA and Ms Valieva (collectively, the parties), want privacy and have not requested that a public hearing be held. Consequently, the hearing will take place behind closed doors in accordance with the provisions of Article 57 of the Code of Sports-related Arbitration (the “CAS Code”), and outside persons will not be authorised to attend. For that reason, on 5 September 2023, the CAS Panel denied a request filed by the 2022 United States Olympic Figure Skating Team for an observer to be permitted to attend the hearing on their behalf.

The Panel of CAS arbitrators constituted to decide the matter is composed of:

President: Mr James Drake KC, Barrister, United Kingdom & Australia

Arbitrators: Mr Jeffrey Mishkin, Attorney-at-Law, USA

Dr Mathieu Maisonneuve, Professor of law, France

The ISU and WADA nominated Mr Jeffrey Mishkin, and Ms Valieva nominated Prof. Mathieu Maisonneuve. RUSADA being involved as Appellant in one procedure and as Respondent in the other two, it decided not to participate in the nomination process. The President of the Panel was appointed by the Deputy President of the Appeals Arbitration Division in accordance with the CAS Code.

The Panel and parties have established a detailed hearing timetable. The proceedings will open on Tuesday, 26 September 2023 with a short opening submission from each party, followed by the hearing of fact witnesses. On Wednesday, 27 September 2023, the Panel will hear expert witnesses and on Thursday, 28 September 2023, the Panel will hear the parties’ closing submissions and rebuttals. Should additional time be required, the Panel and parties have reserved Friday, 29 September 2023.

Following the hearing, the Panel will deliberate and prepare the Arbitral Award containing its decision. At this juncture, it is not possible to indicate when the final decision will be announced. The CAS Panel’s decision will be final and binding, with the exception of the parties’ right to file an appeal to the Swiss Federal Tribunal within 30 days on limited procedural grounds.

The hearing concerns the appeals filed individually by RUSADA, the ISU, and WADA against the decision issued by the RUSADA Disciplinary Anti-Doping Commission (RUSADA DADC) dated 14 December 2022 (the Challenged Decision), in which the Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva (the Athlete) was found to have committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) for which she bore “no fault or negligence” and was not sanctioned with the exception of the disqualification of the results achieved on the date of the sample collection (25 December 2021).

RUSADA seeks a ruling from CAS setting aside the Challenged Decision and finding the Athlete to have committed an ADRV under the RUSADA Anti-Doping Rules (RUSADA ADR), and sanctioned with “the appropriate consequences (which may include or be limited to a reprimand) in respect of such ADRV pursuant to the RUSADA ADR”.

The ISU seeks a ruling from CAS sanctioning the Athlete with a four-year period of ineligibility or, subsidiarily, a two-year period of ineligibility, starting from 25 December 2021, as well as the disqualification of all results achieved by the Athlete during this period.

WADA seeks a ruling from CAS setting aside the Challenged Decision and finding the Athlete to have committed an ADRV under art. 4.1 and/or 4.2 of the RUSADA ADR, and sanctioned with a period of ineligibility of four years, as well as the disqualification of all competitive results obtained by the Athlete from and including 25 December 2021. 

Ms Valieva seeks a ruling from CAS that it lacks jurisdiction over WADA, ISU and RUSADA claims, subsidiarily that no violation of the RUSADA ADR is proven and that she be re-established in the results obtained at the 2021 Russian Figure Skating Championship. In the alternative, she seeks a ruling that she bears no fault or negligence or, more subsidiarily, that the violation of the rules was not intentional, so that the period of ineligibility shall be at most two years and that no results shall be disqualified

In accordance with Article R52(5) of the CAS Code, the three appeals were consolidated and a common timetable was established for the filing of the parties’ written submissions. The exchange of written submissions, which was lengthened by extensions of time granted with the mutual agreement of the parties, has concluded.

Player welfare a key focus for UEFA Football Board

The UEFA Football Board met at the House of European Football in Nyon on Monday to engage in constructive discussions on a variety of topics related to women’s football, ranging from strategy and refereeing to the match calendar, competitions and player welfare.

The meeting kicked off with a presentation about UEFA’s women’s football activities and initiatives highlighted by attendance records broken across the continent by clubs and national teams as well as the increased investments made in Europe over the past seasons.

The Board then discussed the post-24 UEFA Women’s Football Strategy where it was recommended to increase initiatives encouraging greater representation in leadership positions within football, new competition opportunities, player protection, improved academy structures as well as increased support for small and medium-sized national associations.

The Board also discussed refereeing matters such as VAR, handball offences, player and coach behaviour and the new UEFA “Be a Referee!” campaign followed by competitions and match calendar matters. The Board conveyed the need for greater consideration of players needs and open dialogue on the match calendar, competition scheduling and calculation of stoppage time, which adds additional burden to an already heavy workload on the players. The Board also expressed their appreciation and satisfaction with the new UEFA women’s national team competition system and provided feedback on the current state and the evolution of the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

The meeting concluded with medical discussions focused on the effects of the menstrual cycle on player performance and recovery, head injury prevention and education as well as on anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention and treatment.

The meeting was attended by Verónica Boquete, Marissa Callaghan, Karen Carney, Jovana Damnjanović, Jonas Eidevall, Magdalena Eriksson, Laura Georges, Gemma Grainger, Ada Hegerberg, Pernille Harder, Josephine Henning, Eugénie Le Sommer, Carolina Morace, Francisco Neto, Alexia Putellas, Lotta Schelin, Viktoria Schnaderbeck, Tessa Wullaert and Leah Williamson.

Nadine Kessler, UEFA Managing Director of Women’s Football, said: “Bringing together some of the greats of our game to discuss the successes, challenges and opportunities facing our sport was a necessary step. We listened to them carefully. And I truly loved the open spirit and constructive debate. Their ideas, without any doubt, will lead to an even better European football landscape. I want to thank them all for their time."

Verónica Boquete said: “This is a group with expertise, they really know our competitions, our problems, our weaknesses and our strengths so it’s great to be able to share in that. We want to help be part of the improvement of the system and the organisation and bring new ideas. I already think UEFA is doing a great job but if I can do something to help that is great.”

Karen Carney said: “Everything is moving really fast but we have to build the sport on a solid foundation. Today has been getting people together to understand that there are so many countries and everyone is at different parts in their evolution of women’s football, so to understand and hear everyone’s side is really important because we all want the same thing.”

PFA and Premier League announce creation of new Football Brain Health Fund

New fund to assist former players, and their families, who have been impacted by dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions

Pilot Sports Help Deliver A Robust Safeguarding Audit Framework

Our Safeguarding in Sport Continuous Improvement Program provides a nationally consistent approach to child safeguarding in sport.

The program was developed by Sport Integrity Australia with the help of some National Sport Organisations who were part of a pilot program over a six-month period.

Sport Integrity Australia Director of Safeguarding Lisa Purves said the purpose of the pilot program was to develop a robust audit framework to support the implementation of the program.

“Sport Integrity Australia recognises the significant work that has been completed by Gymnastics, Rugby and Equestrian since the pilot program concluded,” Ms Purves said. “All three sports have made significant strides in their safeguarding journey.

“Their practical insights and context provided valuable feedback which have shaped the final program design.”

She said key learnings and insights were gathered from the pilot sports.

Critically, the pilot sports identified key resources required for the sector, including the Child Safety Risk Management and Guide, Safeguarding Risk Identification Library and the Third-Party Contractor Guide.

Sport Integrity Australia is currently finalising these child safe risk management tools, which will be made available to all sports towards the end of 2023.

At the conclusion of the pilot program, three sports – Gymnastics Australia, Rugby Australia and Equestrian Australia – have continued to work with Sport Integrity Australia to develop their Recognise Phase Action Plans aimed at maturing their member protection and child safeguarding practices.

Sport Integrity Australia also congratulates the following sports who have since signed up to the program, demonstrating a commitment providing a safe sport environment for their members: AusCycling, Basketball Australia, DanceSport Australia, Disability Sports Australia, Disabled Winter Sports Australia, Netball Australia, Orienteering Australia, Pony Club Australia, Softball Australia, Squash Australia, Surf Life Saving Australia, Swimming Australia, Triathlon Australia and Volleyball Australia.

IOC commissions for 2023: gender equality reaffirmed and new IOC Esports Commission announced

The potential to engage new audiences

Marking the latest step in supporting the development of virtual sports within the Olympic Movement, the establishment of the Esports Commission, chaired by IOC Member David Lappartient, who led the IOC Esports Liaison Group until the creation of the new Commission, underlines the IOC’s recognition of the tremendous potential that esports have to engage new audiences and provide new opportunities for athletes and fans alike.

Virtual and simulated sports have become an increasingly important part of the sporting landscape in recent years. The IOC has already been exploring this potential through initiatives such as the Olympic Esports Week, which was held for the first time in Singapore from 23 to 25 June, and the Olympic Esports Series, which invited both professional and amateur players from across the world to compete in virtual sports competitions.

“The IOC believes that virtual sports have the potential to complement and enhance the traditional Olympic sports, and that they can provide new opportunities for athletes and fans to participate in the Olympic Movement,” said President Bach. “We believe that virtual sports can help to promote the values of excellence, friendship and respect that are at the heart of the Olympic Games, and that they can inspire young people around the world to get involved in sports and to lead active and healthy lifestyles.”

Gender equality across IOC commissions

The IOC commissions play a vital role in the organisation’s work, focusing on specific subject areas and making recommendations to the IOC President, the Executive Board and the IOC Session. The composition of each commission includes IOC Members and a range of external experts.

President Bach once again maintained gender equality across the commission positions for 2023, highlighting the organisation’s efforts to foster gender equality and inclusion throughout the sports movement. The IOC continues to lead by example in regard to corporate citizenship, which was one of the key recommendations of its strategic roadmap, Olympic Agenda 2020+5.

Of the 583 positions on the IOC commissions, 287 are occupied by men and 296 by women. This represents a substantial increase in female representation since 2013, when only 20 per cent of commission positions were held by women.

Chairs ensure consistent approach

Almost all of the already existing IOC commissions will retain the same chairperson as last year, ensuring a consistent approach in fulfilling their mandates. 14 chairs of the 33 commissions are female, which makes it 42.42 per cent.

The only recent changes were the appointments of IOC Member Karl Stoss as Chair of the Future Host Commission for the Olympic Winter Games and of IOC Executive Board member Kristin Kloster as the Chair of the Coordination Commission for the XXV Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, both replacing members who resigned from their position.

The President also appointed two additional independent members to the IOC Advisory Committee on Human Rights, to reinforce the expertise of the body in the field of business and human rights – namely Ms Rebeca Grynspan Mayufis and Ms Alexandra Guáqueta.

Ms Grynspan Mayufis is a Costa Rican economist who has been serving as Secretary General (SG) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) since 13 September 2021. Before that, she held various official positions in the UN system and in her country – including as Vice-President and Coordinating Minister of Social Affairs of Costa Rica (1994-1998).

Ms Guáqueta is a Colombian national who currently leads the global social impact and human rights function at a multinational consultancy firm that focuses on sustainability. Prior to her current role, Ms Guaqueta held various positions related to social standards – including as a member of the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights (2011-2015).

The next IOC Commissions Week, which sees all the IOC commissions meet to discuss their specific subject areas, will be held remotely in November.

Fedotov and CSKA violate sanctions

On August 14, the International Ice Hockey Federation announced sanctions on Ivan Fedotov and CSKA Hockey Club for breach of the IIHF International Transfer Regulations (cf. IIHF - IIHF sanctions Ivan Fedotov and CSKA Hockey Club).
 
The IIHF imposed the following sporting sanctions on Ivan Fedotov: A four (4) month suspension on playing in official national and international games during playing periods. The suspension shall take effect on 1 September 2023 (first CSKA regular season game) and conclude on 31 December 2023.
 
Respectively, the IIHF has imposed the following sporting sanctions on CSKA Hockey Club: A one (1) season ban on International Transfers taking effect on 11 August 2023 and concluding on 10 August 2024.
 
On 1 September 2023, Ivan Fedotov played in the first CSKA regular season game against Ak Bars, despite the sporting sanctions the IIHF imposed on both Ivan Fedotov, and CSKA Hockey Club.
 
As Ivan Fedotov participation on 1 September for CSKA results in a violation of the IIHF Decision issued against Fedotov, the IIHF will refer Ivan Fedotov to the IIHF Disciplinary Board in accordance with Art. 12.1.1.iv of the IIHF Disciplinary Code.
 

FIFPRO Statement: UEFA decision on additional stoppage time

FIFPRO Europe, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA, England) and the Union Nationale des Footballeurs Professionnels (UNFP, France) welcome UEFA’s decision not to apply the new guidelines around additional stoppage time to European competitions.

This decision shows UEFA have listened to the players and their unions.

"This is an excellent player-centric decision which will make a difference for footballers across Europe," said FIFPRO Europe President and UNFP Vice-President David Terrier. "The fruitful cooperation with UEFA underlines our shared commitment to enhancing player welfare.

“This collaborative approach fills us with confidence for the future relationship between UEFA, professional players, and their respective unions.”

PFA CEO and FIFPRO board member Maheta Molango said: “Player workload is the number one issue when I speak to members at clubs who will be competing for club and country. It is totally unsustainable. It’s clear they are having to make really difficult decisions about how to protect their own health and fitness. 

“The comments from Zvonimir Boban [UEFA’s Chief of Football] show that he gets it. From his own experience he understands the player perspective and the fact that this is ultimately a player wellbeing issue. I will keep saying it – we can’t keep pushing the players until they break.”

Powerlifting Athlete Suspended for the Presence of Seven Prohibited Substances

The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) announced today that Jonathan Stanley, a powerlifting athlete, received a three-year sanction for an anti-doping rule violation. The athlete’s urine sample, collected in competition on June 3, 2023, revealed the presence of trenbolone, oxandrolone, clostebol, nandrolone, drostanolone, and testosterone, six prohibited anabolic agents, as well as methylphenidate, a prohibited specified stimulant.

On August 12, 2023, the athlete signed an Early Admission and Acceptance of Sanction, thereby admitting to the violation and accepting the asserted period of ineligibility and all other consequences. As a result, the otherwise applicable four-year period of ineligibility was reduced by one year in accordance with Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP) rule 10.8.1. Because the athlete was provisionally suspended, the sanction terminates on July 24, 2026.

During the sanction period, the athlete is ineligible to participate in any capacity with any sport signatory to the CADP or the World Anti-Doping Code, including training with teammates.

In compliance with rule 8.4 of the CADP, the CCES’s file outcome summary can be found in the Canadian Sport Sanction Registry.

WADA confirms plans to set up Global Intelligence and Investigations Network at International Anti-Doping Symposium in China

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was pleased to play a prominent role during the 3rd annual International Anti-Doping Symposium, which was hosted in a hybrid fashion on 24-25 September 2023, by the China Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA). 

Commissioned and supported by CHINADA and Sports Bureau of Zhejiang Province, the symposium was co-organized by the Hangzhou Asian Organizing Committee and the Anti-Doping Branch of the China Sport Science Society. The event has become a staple on the clean sport calendar within the Asia/Oceania region.  

Under the theme ‘Reinforcing Governance Capability of National Anti-Doping Organizations’, this year’s event attracted participants from the region and beyond, and its agenda focused on National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) compliance, development and capacity building and supporting NADO’s at major sporting events. 

In his opening address, WADA President Witold Bańka thanked CHINADA for hosting the Symposium and commended the NADO for its leadership within the region. He also announced the Agency’s plans for global expansion of its Intelligence and Investigations (I&I) Department’s Anti-Doping I&I Network. 

He said: “Over the past year, we have been bringing together anti-doping experts from NADOs and law enforcement agencies in Europe to build out an Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network. This project has already delivered tangible results, having dismantled several illicit steroid laboratories, and seized significant amounts of performance enhancing drugs, catching a number of doping athletes in the process. 

“Due to its success, the WADA Intelligence and Investigations Department has decided to expand this project worldwide and establish a Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network. We will do this region by region, with the next phase of the project beginning in Asia/Oceania as of 2025. We believe it is a great opportunity to increase I&I capacities here, strengthen our relationships with law enforcement, and make a significant impact in the protection of clean sport just as we are doing in Europe.” 

During the first day of the Symposium, Director General Olivier Niggli presented WADA’s Strategic Plan, the Agency’s short and long-term priorities, and went through the various ways the Agency was helping to build capacity within NADOs and Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADOs) in Asia and around the world. WADA Vice-President Yang Yang also delivered a keynote speech focusing on the importance of education and WADA’s athlete-centered approach. 

Yang Yang said: “Education is and must remain our first line of support for athletes. It has a strong voice within our governance structure, and it is also reflected in the fact there is now an International Standard for Education and a dedicated, stand-alone Education Department at WADA.  

“As part of the ‘Be Athlete Centered’ priority of the Agency’s Strategic Plan, WADA is always looking at ways to engage and empower athletes to contribute to the development of anti-doping policies. We are constantly striving to simplify the anti-doping journey for athletes so they can forge healthy and sustainable careers in sport. We want to ensure we are listening to the views of athletes worldwide and addressing the matters that are of most interest to them.” 

WADA Chief Operating Officer, Stuart Kemp, and Director of WADA’s European Office and Sport Movement Relations, Sébastien Gillot, also contributed their expertise to the symposium with sessions on World Anti-Doping Code compliance, and Anti-Doping Organization development and capacity building.

Public Statement on Disciplinary Action Against Participant Flynn “Deluxe” Smith

The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and fair play within the esports industry. In the interest of transparency and public confidence, we are issuing this statement to inform the public about a recent disciplinary action taken against a participant in an esports event.

Overview of the Case

During the a match played on 24th February, esports participant Flynn “Deluxe” Smith was alleged to have engaged in corrupt behavior, which contravened the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code. As part of our commitment to ensuring integrity in esports, ESIC initiated an investigation into the matter. Due to intervening factors, ESIC could not make a public statement on the matter until this point in time.

Investigation and Charges

Our comprehensive investigation into the matter involved examining match footage, reviewing betting patterns, and conducting interviews with relevant parties. While we must maintain confidentiality to protect the integrity of the investigation, we can share that the evidence collected pointed to Mr. Smith’s involvement in activities that contravened articles 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code. These activities include improper influence on match outcomes and involvement in corrupt betting practices. The gathered information was subsequently presented to Mr. Smith in a Notice of Charge.

Resolution and Sanction

After reviewing the charges and evidence, Flynn “Deluxe” Smith accepted the charges and agreed to a plea bargain arrangement. Consequently, he is subject to a two-year ban from participating in any capacity in events organized by ESIC Members. The ban is effective from 4th April 2023 until midnight 3rd April 2025.

ESIC’s Commitment to Integrity

ESIC remains steadfast in our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in esports. We will continue to conduct investigations and impose sanctions when necessary to protect the integrity of the industry. We also encourage the esports community to actively participate in promoting fair play and integrity in esports.

Conclusion

We appreciate the esports industry’s support in maintaining the integrity of the industry and fostering a fair, competitive environment for all participants. If you have any inquiries or concerns related to this statement, please feel free to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Genius Sports strikes new integrity partnership with Major Basketball League Malaysia

Major Basketball League Malaysia, the top tier of the sport run by the Malaysia Basketball Association, has announced a new integrity partnership with Genius Sports to fight the threat of match-fixing.

As the trusted integrity partner to over 150 sports leagues and federations worldwide including the Indonesian Basketball League, Thailand Basketball Association and Vietnam Basketball Association, Genius Sports will provide Major Basketball League Malaysia with a comprehensive integrity programme to identify, combat and prevent match-fixing.

Genius Sports’ 24/7/365 Bet Monitoring System will use artificial intelligence to analyse global wagering activity on Malaysian basketball, cross-referencing real-time odds movements with proprietary predictive algorithms to automatically flag potentially suspicious activity. Through its global team of expert integrity operators, Genius Sports will thoroughly examine all monitoring data to provide Major Basketball League Malaysia with detailed reports and data-driven analysis.

To provide long-term protection from any threats, Genius Sports will also provide model rules and regulations to provide robust foundations for the league’s new integrity programme. Genius Sports will also deliver expert educational workshops, helping players, officials and coaches to understand how match-fixers operate, where they should report any attempts to manipulate games and the personal and professional consequences for not doing so.

“This collaboration between MBL and Genius Sports to safeguard the integrity of our competitions represents a major milestone in the development of Malaysia basketball,” said Frank Ch’ng, Commissioner of MBL. “We’re proud to be working alongside Genius Sports to ensure our games remain transparent, unpredictable and fair.”

“In the fight against match-fixing, sports must be proactive and invest in measures that both identify existing threats and provide long-term protection,” said Stephen Thurley, Head of Integrity Partnerships at Genius Sports. “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Major Basketball League Malaysia, building a robust integrity programme that combines model rules and regulations with 24/7 monitoring and education services.”

Gender equality key for FIBA Commissions and Working Groups appointments for 2023-2027 cycle

FIBA has revealed its Commissions and Working Groups for the 2023-27 term following the first meeting of the newly elected Central Board. 

Having assembled on the eve of the recent FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Final in Manila, Philippines, the Central Board has confirmed all appointments, with a strong emphasis on working towards gender equality, which has delivered a number of important milestones. 

As per the amendments to the FIBA General Statutes enacted by the FIBA Mid-Term Congress in 2021, the requirement to have at least 30 percent representation of both genders in each Commission has been implemented. In fact, the Central Board has appointed 35 percent of women across all FIBA Commissions.

For the first time, three out of seven FIBA Commissions are Chaired by a woman, and in two of the other four Commissions, the Deputy Chair is a woman. It will also be the first time the FIBA Appeals Panel is Chaired by a woman.  

Meanwhile, the Central Board has appointed three women to the FIBA Foundation Board for the first time, including FIBA Hall of Famer Michelle Timms. Additionally, one of the two FIBA Foundation Advisory Committees is Chaired by a woman.

The majority of the women appointed as FIBA Commission members are either holding the office of President or Secretary General in their respective National Federations or they have attended one of FIBA’s dedicated programs designed as part of the 'Women in Basketball' strategic priority, such as the FIBA Adelante, the FIBA WiLEAD, the FIBA Africa Women’s Seminar and the FIBA TIME-OUT program.

This includes newly co-opted FIBA Central Board member Sonja Vasic, whose experience and success will be a welcome addition to the Players’ Commission. The Serbian legend boasts two FIBA Women's EuroBasket titles and was MVP at the 2021 edition, as well as leading her country to other historic highs, such as a first Olympic appearance and maiden medal at Rio 2016, and also being a flag bearer at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Notably, there is a second term for another playing legend in Dirk Nowitzki, who will continue to be Chair of the Players' Commission. Sonja Vasic will serve as Deputy Chair.  

To enhance global representation, the Central Board has decided that all five regions of FIBA are represented through a Chair or a Deputy Chair of a FIBA Commission.

FIBA Technical Commission
Chair of Commission - Ms. Eleonora Rangelova (BUL) 
Deputy Chair of Commission - Mr. Patrick Hunt (AUS)
List of Commission members here.  

FIBA Legal Commission 
Chair of Commission - Ms. Erika Dy (PHI)
Deputy Chair of Commission - Mr. Yum Ramos Perales (PUR)
List of Commission members here.  

FIBA Players' Commission 
Chair of Commission - Mr. Dirk Nowitzki (GER)
Deputy Chair of Commission - Ms. Sonja Vasic (SRB)
List of Commission members here.  

FIBA Finance Commission 
Chair of Commission - Mr. Ingo Weiss (GER)
Deputy Chair of Commission - Mr. Erick Thohir (INA)
List of Commission members here.  

FIBA Medical Commission
Chair of Commission - Dr. Peter Harcourt (AUS)
Deputy Chair of Commission - Dr. Souheil Sayegh (SUI)
List of Commission members here.  

FIBA 3x3 Commission
Chair of Commission - Ms. Carmen Tocala (ROU)
Deputy Chair of Commission - Mr. Ambrose Tashobya (UGA)
List of Commission members here.  

The FIBA Competitions Commission is chaired by Mr. Edgar Sneps (LAT) and divided across four groups, each led by a Deputy Chair:

FIBA Competitions Commission – Men's National Teams 
Deputy Chair - Mr. Jim Tooley (USA)

FIBA Competitions Commission – Women's National Teams
Deputy Chair - Ms. Pascale Mugwaneza (RWA) 

FIBA Competitions Commission – Youth National Teams
Deputy Chair - Mr. Peter Bodnar (HUN)

FIBA Competitions Commission – Club Competitions
Deputy Chair - Mr. Serhan Antalyali (TUR) 

The full list of the FIBA Competitions Commission members is here.

The Working Group on Empower National Federations will be chaired by Mr. Fabian Borro (ARG), with Deputy Chair in charge of FIBA PLUS Mr. Jean-Michel Ramaroson (MAD) and Deputy Chair in charge of FIBA Academy Ms. Carol Callan (USA). The Working Group on Masters Basketball will be chaired by Mr. Asterios Zois (GRE) with Deputy Chair Mr. Ned Cotten (AUS), while the Working Group on eFIBA will be chaired by Mr. Al Panlilio (PHI) with Deputy Chair Mr. Athos Antoniou (CYP).

As President of the Basketball Arbitral Tribunal, the Central Board has re-appointed Prof. Ulrich Haas (GER) and as Vice-President Mr. Raj Parker. The FIBA Appeal's Panel Chair is Ms. Diana Tesic (SRB/CAN) and the Deputy Chair is Mr. Marek Palus (POL). New members of the FIBA Ethics Panel were also elected at the recent FIBA Congress and the panel will be chaired by Mr. Scott Derwin (AUS). The FIBA Safeguarding Council is chaired by HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein (JOR). 

The list of the FIBA Judicial and Other Bodies members is here.

ACTION PLAN AND FINE IMPOSED ON GILLINGHAM FOR CROWD CONTROL MISCONDUCT

Gillingham have been fined £12,500 and ordered to implement an action plan after admitting misconduct in relation to crowd control for incidents at three separate EFL League Two games during the 2022/23 season. 

The club failed to ensure that its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion at its game against Colchester United on 26 December 2022, and don’t use words or behaviour that are improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting with either express or implied reference to race, colour or ethnic origin.

The club also failed to ensure that its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion during its match against Sutton United on 29 December 2022, and don’t use words or behaviour that are improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting with either express or implied reference to gender.

Finally, the club failed to ensure that its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion at its game against AFC Wimbledon on 25 February 2023, and don’t use words or behaviour that are improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting with either express or implied reference to gender.

An independent Regulatory Commission imposed the club’s sanctions following a hearing, and its written reasons for them can be seen below. 

Public Statement on Disciplinary Action Against Participant Joel “Joel” Holmlund

Introduction

The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has taken decisive action to provisionally suspend Mr. Joel “Joel” Holmlund, a professional esports player, formerly of team Godsent, from all ESIC Member events in light of evidence available corroborating allegations of his multiple breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.

Overview of the Case

It is alleged that Mr. Joel Holmlund, while being a professional player for the team Godsent, engaged in corrupt behavior contravening the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code during his participation in the BetBoom Playlist Urbanistic event, and separately in the IEM Dallas 2023 (Europe Closed Qualifier) involving Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), for the following infringements:

1. Between the period of 27 March 2023 to 28 March 2023, Mr. Holmlund placed bets on matches he was playing in;
2. On 31 March 2023, Mr. Holmlund placed two bets against his own team in one match; and
3. Between the period of 29 March 2023 to 1 May 2023, Mr. Holmlund proceeded to place 17 bets on various CS:GO matches.

Although the tournament related to item 1 was not an ESIC member event tournament, the ESIC Codes allow ESIC to issue a Rejection Order pursuant to item 2.A.2 of the Anti-Corruption Code. The tournament related to item 2 was an ESIC member event, and the ESIC Codes give ESIC jurisdiction. This sanction will be issued to all ESIC members and may be adopted by other third parties at their discretion.

Investigation and Charges

Our comprehensive investigation into the matter involved examining:

1. Records of individual bets placed during specific events.
2. Multiple account registrations and their associated details.
3. Digital footprints, including IP addresses, device IDs, and browser information.
4. Linkages between the betting accounts and various social media platforms.
5. Betting patterns in relation to specific esports matches and in-game performance.
6. Records of bets placed on various esports matches.
7. Patterns of betting behavior in relation to professional participation.

ESIC is grateful for the cooperation of our Anti-Corruption Supporter member betting operators for providing this evidence.

After collating and reviewing the evidence in light of the allegations, Mr. Holmlund was charged with a breach of ESIC’s Anti-Corruption Code, particularly:

2.1 Corruption:

2.1.1 Fixing or contriving in any way or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to any effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct, or any other aspect of any Match.

 2.2 Betting:

2.2.1 Betting on any CS:GO Match, including matches that you were a professional participant in  as detailed in the infringements above.

2.2.2 Facilitating, aiding, abetting or otherwise assisting any party in committing acts described in 2.2.1.

2.2.3 Failing to disclose to the ESIC a full and true disclosure of all the facts and circumstances with respect to acts described in 2.1 and 2.2.

And further offences under the ESIC Code of Conduct articles as follows;

2.4.5 Where the facts of the alleged incident are not adequately or clearly covered by any of the above offences, conduct that brings Esport, the Game, Event, ESIC or a Member into disrepute.

Mr. Holmlund was served with a Notice of Charge on 30 August 2023 and given an opportunity to respond. After denying the charges in reply, ESIC gathered additional evidence to assess the veracity of his denials.

Considering the gravity of the allegations, Mr. Holmlund’s current active participation in an ESIC-affiliated event, and being satisfied with the compelling evidence presented in its further investigation, ESIC has elected to suspend Mr. Holmlund via a Rejection Order Notice. While the suspension stands, ESIC remains open to reevaluation should Mr. Holmlund present new evidence by 6 October 2023.

Sanction Duration

At the time of publication, as the Rejection Order Notice has not been finalised, ESIC will reserve the disclosure of the duration of the ban on participation in ESIC member events to be imposed. ESIC will make a further statement on or after 6 October 2023 to confirm the final outcome of the investigation.

The ESIC Open Matters Register, found on the ESIC website, will facilitate any further public updates about this matter as published by ESIC from time to time, and at its discretion.

Joint statement from The FA, Premier League, EFL, PFA and Kick It Out on Online Safety Bill

We welcome the passing of the Online Safety Bill and are pleased that English football has played a prominent role in the development of this legislation.

It is a significant moment for those who participate in the game as the Bill will hold social media companies to account and we look forward to working closely with Ofcom on its implementation.

We encourage the government to ensure that Ofcom and law enforcement are fully equipped to challenge social media companies if they fail to protect their users.

But social media companies don’t need to wait. They can introduce better tools right now so that users have a better experience, free from unwanted and damaging discrimination.

Professional boxer Kamil Sokolowski receives three-year ban for Anti-Doping Rule Violations

Polish professional boxer Kamil Sokolowski has been banned from all sport for a period of three years following Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) for the Presence and Use of a Prohibited Substance.

On 12 November 2022, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) collected an In-Competition urine Sample from Mr Sokolowski after his fight against Frazer Clarke at the AO Arena in Manchester. Analysis of Mr Sokolowski’s Sample returned Adverse Analytical Findings (AAFs) for the exogenous origin of testosterone and its Metabolites 5α-androstane-3α, 17β-diol (‘5αAdiol’) and 5βandrostane-3α,17β-diol (‘5βAdiol’).

Testosterone is listed under section S1.1 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) 2022 Prohibited List as an anabolic androgenic steroid. It is a non-Specified substance which, when administered exogenously, is prohibited in sport at all times.

On 21 April 2023, UKAD notified Mr Sokolowski of the AAFs and issued him with a Provisional Suspension from sport.

Mr Sokolowski responded to UKAD’s Notice on 30 April 2023 indicating that he used a supplement which he believed contained the Prohibited Substances found in his Sample.

On 26 May 2023, UKAD charged Mr Sokolowski with the commission of ADRVs for the Presence and Use of Prohibited Substances. Mr Sokolowski admitted the ADRVs and accepted the asserted period of Ineligibility. In accordance with ADR Article 10.8.1, Mr Sokolowski was able to reduce the asserted four-year period of Ineligibility to three years, after admitting the violations and accepting the asserted period of Ineligibility within twenty days of the Charge Letter.

Mr Sokolowski’s ban from all WADA Code-compliant sport commenced on 21 April 2023 and will expire at midnight on 20 April 2026.  

Speaking on the case, Hamish Coffey, UKAD Director of Operations said: “Strict liability applies to all athletes under the Anti-Doping Rules. It is essential that athletes take responsibility for what goes in their body. By not following the rules, athletes put their health and careers at risk and they will face a lengthy ban from sport.”

Extreme E extends broadcast partnership with ITV in the UK

AFC terminates exclusive commercial partnership with FMA

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has terminated its exclusive commercial partnership with Football Marketing Asia (FMA) with immediate effect.

The AFC's decision takes into careful consideration the new challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving post-pandemic commercial environment.

The now terminated commercial deal, which was signed in 2018, gave FMA (then known as DDMC Fortis) the exclusive rights to market the AFC’s commercial properties for the 2021-2028 cycles. 

The end of the exclusive partnership with FMA enables the AFC to explore new opportunities and collaborations that are better aligned with the current conditions, while securing its financial future for the long-term success of Asian football.

The AFC is now in the process of appointing a new exclusive commercial partner for the 2023-2028 term with more details to be announced in due course.

FIFA extends sanctions imposed by Brazilian FA due to match manipulation

World Rugby to protect officials and players from online abuse during Rugby World Cup 2023

• World Rugby is partnering with Signify Group to protect its online community and take action against hate speech and abuse
• Core wellbeing service will operate across all match officials and teams at Rugby World Cup 2023 
• World Rugby sending a clear zero-tolerance statement that online abuse will be monitored and action taken where necessary
• Wellbeing of participants a priority for World Rugby and its national unions

World Rugby has today announced that it will implement transformative measures to protect all match day officials and team squad players from online abuse during Rugby World Cup France 2023.

The move underpins World Rugby's wider commitment to promote and protect the sport’s values and Rugby World Cup 2023’s mantra as the sport’s greatest celebration of togetherness, driving positive change.

World Rugby is partnering with data science company Signify Group who will use its AI-driven Threat Matrix service to put an online protective shield around all tournament match officials, players and coaches. The service will include:

• Proactive real-time monitoring from open-source data on key platforms including X [formerly Twitter] and Instagram across the tournament
• Coverage in over 30 languages including images and emojis
• Daily reporting of abusive content and accounts to platforms to ensure appropriate action is taken
• Expedite abusive content take-down/sanctioning of account holders - where platform community guidelines are evidenced to have been broken
• Provide evidence to national associations to ban individuals from domestic and international rugby events 
• Most egregious cases have the potential to be reported to relevant law enforcement agencies and an ability to unmask the worst abusers who hide behind ‘fake’ accounts.

World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said: “Rugby is a sport for everyone and we take our responsibility very seriously to make the sport as inclusive, accessible and relevant as possible. This includes sending a strong message that online hate simply will not be tolerated, tackling abuse and harmful content with meaningful action."

World Rugby Chief Communications Officer Dominic Rumbles added: “Doing everything we can to set a good example and protect players and match officials is important to World Rugby and our unions, and extending that welfare to the arena of social media is both logical and timely.

"Abuse, on or off the field, has no place in our game and today's announcement shows just how focused we are in tackling online hate aimed at the rugby family – working in partnership with proven experts Signify. This development also reflects our wider tournament goals to drive positive change and celebrate togetherness and unity; all part of a wider journey that World Rugby is very much focused on delivering.”

Jonathan Hirshler, CEO of Signify Group, said: “We are delighted to be working with World Rugby to help create a safer online space to ensure officials and players can be 100 per cent focused on their on-field responsibilities, and not be distracted and potentially harmed by vile online abuse. More and more sporting bodies are starting to take this issue seriously and it is great to be working with World Rugby where welfare is so core to its philosophy, in a sport built on respect, to drive positive change.”

WADA announces launch of Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds website

Ombuds calls on athletes and Anti-Doping Organizations to take note of this important new resource

On behalf of the inaugural Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds (Ombuds), Ms. Anna Thorstenson, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds website, which is pertinent for Athletes covered by the World Anti-Doping Program.  

This website is a secure platform that athletes can use to contact the Ombuds, a free, neutral and confidential resource for athletes with questions or concerns about anti-doping issues. The website includes: 

• a contact form to send concerns/questions directly to the Ombuds; 

• detailed answers to frequently asked questions; and 

• links to other useful material and platforms, such as WADA’s Speak Up platform that is a secure way to report doping or other activity that goes against anti-doping rules. 

In March this year, Anna Thorstenson was announced as the inaugural Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds. A Swedish lawyer and anti-doping specialist, Ms. Thorstenson is working independently of WADA; and, is overseeing the pilot project of the Ombuds Program, which includes development and publication of the new website. 

“As the Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds, my role is to provide Athletes with cost-free, neutral, impartial, and fair advice and assistance with regard to their anti-doping concerns and to ensure fair application of their rights,” says Thorstenson, who has worked in the anti-doping field since 2009. “The new website is an excellent gateway for any Athlete who may have questions or legitimate concerns about their rights or the anti-doping system more generally. I would invite all athletes and Anti-Doping Organizations to please take note of this important new website and for ADOs to share it with athletes within their jurisdiction.”  

WADA Athlete Council Chair and ExCo member, Ryan Pini, said: “I am happy to see that the Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds website is now up and running. The Ombuds Program is so important to the athlete community. I encourage athletes around the world to feel free to contact the Ombuds, Anna Thorstenson, directly via the site with any questions that they may have concerning the anti-doping system. The Ombuds role was established to fill the gap between Athletes and Anti-Doping Organizations and to provide Athletes with safe and confidential assistance when they feel they are unable to turn to their Anti-Doping Organization directly.” 

Background 

In November 2021, in line with the ‘Be Athlete Centered’ priority of WADA’s 2020-2024 Strategic Plan, WADA’s Executive Committee (ExCo) endorsed the one-year pilot project proposal for an Ombuds Program that was put forward by WADA’s Athlete Committee (now known as the Athlete Council since 1 January 2023).  The Program was also supported by the Athlete community and other stakeholders as a natural follow up to the Athletes’ Anti-Doping Rights Act, developed by WADA’s Athlete Committee and published in June 2020.  

The Ombuds provides athletes with cost-free, neutral, impartial, fair advice and assistance in relation to the World Anti-Doping Code and the entities that play a role within it. 

The Ombuds Program has been launched in Europe but is available to athletes from around the world. The hope is to create guidelines so that Anti-Doping Organizations in other countries may setup similar programs, realizing that many athletes would choose to go local first.  

You can learn more about the roles and responsibilities of the Ombuds on the Ombuds website.  

Resources To Help Safeguard Sport

Sport Integrity Australia is committed to Australian sport environments that are safe, supportive and friendly for children and young people.

It is essential everyone involved with delivering sport in Australia – Boards, committees, administrators, volunteers, coaches, parents or participants – understand the important legal and governance responsibilities they have in relation to child safety.

It’s also important that young people understand what a safe environment is, their rights and where they can go for help.

Sport Integrity Australia has developed specific safeguarding resources for clubs and sporting organisations at all levels of the sport, for parents and carers and for young people and children (aged 7-12 and 13-17).

Knowing our rights and obligations is the first step in ensuring that participation in sport is safe, supportive and friendly for all.

Our resources can be found at: Resources | Sport Integrity Australia.

Circular no. 1856 - Anti-discrimination measures for the preliminary competition of the FIFA World Cup 2026™

TO THE MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS OF FIFA

Circular no. 1856

Zurich, 1 September 2023

SG/agr/gde

Anti-discrimination measures for the preliminary competition of the FIFA World Cup 2026™

Dear Sir or Madam,

Below you will find information regarding the anti-discrimination measures that apply for all qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and that require your active support, especially as a home member association. The information is structured as follows:

I. Procedure for discriminatory incidents (including the three-step procedure for referees)

II. Anti-discrimination monitoring system

III. Recommendations to support preventive measures of the participating member associations

We kindly ask you to carefully read the following instructions and inform the relevant departments in your association accordingly in order to ensure a diverse and discrimination-free competition.

I. Procedure for discriminatory incidents (including the three-step procedure for referees)

A. Safety and security measures

In general, the security personnel responsible for home matches must be informed of the measures in place to ensure respect for diversity and anti-discrimination. These could be instructions or discussions with spectators, as well as the removal of discriminatory banners and other items or of spectators from the stadium. We recommend the Fare network’s Global Guide to Discriminatory Practices in Football as a useful aid to identifying discriminatory behaviour: https://farenet.org/global-guide-to-discriminatory-practices-in-football.

B. Proactive pre-match stadium announcement 

For the purpose of informing spectators, a stadium announcement text is available on the FIFA Competitions extranet which shall be read or broadcast as preventive measure before each match. The home association is responsible for ensuring implementation in the relevant languages.

C. Reactive stadium announcement without interrupting the match 

FIFA provides you with a stadium announcement text on the FIFA Competitions extranet, which allows you to respond directly to discriminatory incidents during a match in the stadium (based on article 4 of the FIFA Statutes and article 15 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code), without interrupting the match. The fourth official informs the referee after every stadium announcement in response to an incident. The home association is responsible for ensuring implementation in the relevant languages.

In addition, FIFA also welcomes the use of your own event-related announcements or video clips responding to discriminatory incidents.

D. Three-step procedure

If the above measures are unsuccessful or if a sudden serious discriminatory incident occurs, the three-step procedure for referees will be applied, which FIFA has used for all its tournaments since the FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017. The home association is responsible for providing the referee with operational support.

Following the three-step procedure, referees can, in the event of serious discriminatory incidents in the stadium: 

1. stop the match (followed by a stadium announcement with the necessary explanation and request for the discriminatory incident to stop);

2. suspend the match by sending the players back to the changing room for an appropriate period of time (followed by a stadium announcement with the necessary explanation and request for the discriminatory incident to stop);

3. abandon the match (followed by a stadium announcement with the necessary explanation and request to leave the stadium in accordance with the instructions of the security personnel).

The detailed description of the steps in the three-step procedure and the operational responsibility of the home association can be found on the FIFA Competitions extranet.

The home association is responsible for ensuring implementation with regards to the involvement of their relevant functional areas and the display of stadium announcement in the relevant languages.

II. Anti-discrimination monitoring system

A. Background

Based on the resolution of the 63rd FIFA Congress on the fight against racism and discrimination and the experiences of FIFA and the Fare network between 2015 and 2023 the anti-discrimination monitoring system became a robust and reliable tool to identify discriminatory incidents following article 4 of the FIFA Statutes and article 15 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. It supports disciplinary procedures through match reports including evidence material of possible discriminatory incidents. The anti-discrimination monitoring system will again be in place for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ preliminary competition (hereinafter “qualifiers”) and selected friendly matches.

B. Methodology

The anti-discrimination monitoring system comprises:

1. assessment of all qualifying matches to identify risk matches in relation to possible discriminatory incidents;

2. deployment of anti-discrimination match observer/s (hereinafter: “observer”) at high risk matches in relation to possible discriminatory incidents;

3. match observation and reporting (including evidence material) to support the secretariat of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.

B.1 Risk assessment

Identifying risk matches involves all forms of discrimination as mentioned in the FIFA Statutes and the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and includes the following match-specific evaluation criteria:

• previous discriminatory incidents at or after matches involving the participating teams/associations; 4

• known far-right and other xenophobic groups, including their football-related activities and supporter links in the countries of the participating teams/associations;

• tendency to commit acts of homophobia, other forms of LGBTQI+phobia or overt sexist abuse based on traditional chants or previous history;

• the historical context of the participating teams/associations in terms of tension or even violence (including in relation to specific sensitive events or days);

• troublesome relationships between the participating teams’/associations’ countries;

• any religious tension relating to the national identities of the participating teams/associations;

• current geopolitical crises in the countries of the participating teams/associations and in their region that could affect the spectators’ attitude;

• possible crowd dynamics during the match;

• the importance of the match in the context of the competition and the dynamics that could result from it.

Based on the risk assessment, all qualifiers and selected friendlies will be classified as follows:

• GREEN : for matches with a low risk of discriminatory incidents. No observer will be appointed.

• YELLOW : for matches with a medium risk of discriminatory incidents and for which media monitoring and other measures may be necessary. After submitting the risk assessment, FIFA and its service provider Fare network will continue to assess the temporary dynamics of yellow matches until match day and may change a yellow match into a red match. Otherwise, no observer will be appointed.

• RED : for matches with a high probability of discriminatory incidents and for which observers will be appointed.

B.2 Deployment of anti-discrimination match observers

An observer is appointed for each red match by the Fare network, except for those red matches where additional risk factors are in play and require the appointment of two observers. Fare network relies on a pool of trained observers, who are anti-discrimination experts assigned to specific regions and: 

• understand the language including idiosyncrasies of the country/team they are appointed to observe;

• know the symbols and codes used in the country/local environment/fan culture;

• know the fan culture of the country/team/local environment;

• have an understanding of any wider social and (geo-)political issues at play

• have an understanding of the specific context of the words, expressions and chants used in the football context of the given country; 

• are aware of article 4 of the FIFA Statutes and other relevant FIFA regulations;

• sign a code of conduct to guarantee their neutrality.

Fare network will submit the list of observers to FIFA aligned with the beginning of the regional qualifiers in the respective confederations and provide regular updates to that list. Fare network will store the confirmation that each observer has signed their code of conduct and completed the observer training.

Observers will work anonymously at matches to protect their identity for reasons of personal safety. Each observer is given a number by Fare network which will appear on the antidiscrimination match reports to identify him/her at a particular match. Their identity will only be shared with FIFA’s judicial bodies and/or CAS if required and if significant to the case. The identity of observers will not be disclosed to respondents or other parties to hearings (member associations etc.) and their representatives.

B.3 Delivery of match observation and reporting

The observer/s conduct/s pre-match research identifying potential pre-planned discriminatory displays by both teams’ followers. At the match itself, each observer shall observe and record evidence of any discriminatory incidents in the stadium or its immediate vicinity.

If discriminatory incidents are witnessed by an observer, he/she shall submit a special match report – written in English – to the Fare network after the match. This anti-discrimination match report shall describe the discriminatory incident(s) witnessed, specifying:

• where in the stadium (or in its immediate vicinity) the incident(s) took place;

• the exact time the incident(s) took place;

• which team the spectator/s causing the incident(s) was/were supporting;

• approximately how many spectators were involved.

The Fare network shall ensure that the anti-discrimination match report meets the following requirements:

• The report is submitted in English using the standard reporting form, and the observer has answered all questions on the form.

• If the incident contains any wording, this wording should be quoted in the original language used by the spectators as well as translated into English.

• The report documents the facts accurately and consistently, giving as full a picture as possible of the incidents.

• All reported incidents are supported by documentary evidence (such as photographs, videos or audio recordings). 

• The report includes the observer’s number and the date of submission.

The Fare network shall correct any grammatical and formal errors.

Anti-discrimination match reports are not regarded as FIFA match officials’ reports within the meaning of art. 40 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

C. Disciplinary procedure

Immediately after reviewing the anti-discrimination match report, the secretariat of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee may request the FIFA Human Rights & Anti-Discrimination Department to provide an additional internal memo to provide background and additional information on a reported incident if it is deemed relevant.

Thereafter, the chair of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee will be responsible for deciding whether or not to open proceedings on the basis of the anti-discrimination match report, the FIFA Match Commissioner’s report, other evidence provided by third parties.

III. Recommendations to support preventive measures of the participating member associations

FIFA relies on the support of all participating member associations and their teams to ensure a discrimination-free environment during the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. For preventive preparation, see the FIFA Good Practice Guide on Diversity and Anti-Discrimination (circular no. 1632) for detailed guidance on your diversity and anti-discrimination work and examples of actions and initiatives:

• English

• French

• Spanish

We would like to thank you in advance for your support in the fight against discrimination during the qualifying matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and in football around the world. 

Yours faithfully,

FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE

DE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

Fatma Samoura

Secretary General