With the 2026 World Cup imminent, football’s governing bodies confront fresh episodes of racial and homophobic abuse, most recently allegations involving Vinícius Júnior and a Benfica player during a Champions League tie, and crowd chants aimed at players in England (reports, Feb 2026). FIFA’s abandonment of an anti‑discrimination campaign at the 2025 Club World Cup drew criticism from rights groups; reinstating robust programmes is urgent not cosmetic.

Under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, FIFA must prevent discrimination by enforcing sanctions, funding education, and reinstating visible campaigns. Punishments must be swift and consistent for players, managers and clubs who tolerate or abet hate speech. Football’s global reach makes it a powerful vehicle for social norms; the sport’s institutions must deploy that influence to protect vulnerable players and fans.

 Sources: Sport and Rights Alliance, Human Rights Watch, match reports, Feb 2026.