L’UEFA lance « Real Scars »
As part of its “Respect” program, which notably saw the birth of the “No racism” campaign, the European Federation launched its “Real Scars” movement, which can literally be translated as “real scars”.
Called “Online Abuse Leaves Marks”, this program aims to highlight the devastating effects of online abuse. Players have always been insulted in stadiums.
Only this phenomenon has increased with the proliferation of social networks but also online betting, accessible to the youngest.
What solutions has UEFA brought?
The highest body in European football wants to raise awareness among fans against such abuse but also to create a platform to monitor and report such online abuse.
A documentary series titled “Outraged” is also planned.
The “Real Scars” campaign is supported by Olympique Lyonnais player Wendie Renard, Chelsea Italian midfielder Jorginho, as well as Aston Villa and Switzerland player Alisha Lehmann.
“People are cowards”
“Online abuse is horrible because people don’t think about the harm they can do. These words have effects on you and on the people who love you,” explains Jorginho, third in the last Ballon d’Or.
For her part, Alisha Lehmann pushes a real rant. “For me, online abuse is much worse than in real life, because hundreds of people relay these messages. Online, people are cowards because they can hide behind a phone or a computer. In real life, they would never say such things to their face. Probably they would ask you if they can have your jersey or an autograph. »
UEFA will also launch a video campaign where we will see these players, victims of online abuse in their careers. Former France midfielder Patrick Vieira is also taking part in this campaign, as is sports journalist and former player Karen Carney, as well as Jesús Tomillero Benavente, a Spanish referee who retired due to abuse in line.
These clips from the “Outraged” campaign will be broadcast on giant screens during the Euro, as well as on social networks.
This Women’s Euro will take place from July 6 to 31, with a final in the legendary Wembley Stadium.
