Players sent off, matches abandoned: FIFA to crack down on discrimination at the World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino committed to ridding football of racism during an address to the FIFA Congress in 2024. Source: AP / Tony Gutierrez/AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez

The FIFA World Cup 2026 could be a test for the organisation and its commitment to rid football of racism. In 2024, FIFA launched its 'Global Stand Against Racism' with a series of initiatives, including an anti-racism panel, education campaigns, and introducing tougher rules to combat discrimination. With incidents of racism continuing to blight professional football while FIFA prepares for its biggest tournament ever in Mexico, Canada and the US, here's how the footballing organisation's policies may play out.

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Published 7 June 2026 7:30am

Presented by Cameron Watts

Source: SBS News

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The FIFA World Cup 2026 could be a test for the organisation and its commitment to rid football of racism. In 2024, FIFA launched its 'Global Stand Against Racism' with a series of initiatives, including an anti-racism panel, education campaigns, and introducing tougher rules to combat discrimination. With incidents of racism continuing to blight professional football while FIFA prepares for its biggest tournament ever in Mexico, Canada and the US, here's how the footballing organisation's policies may play out.

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