The Colonial Legacy and the Birth of Exclusion

Racism in football can be traced back to the colonial era when European powers dominated much of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The hierarchical systems established during this period perpetuated the idea of racial superiority, which spilled over into sports, including football. Football, introduced to colonized nations by European settlers, often excluded local populations, relegating them to spectator roles or minor leagues.

For instance, in South Africa, football was segregated along racial lines during the apartheid era. While white players enjoyed access to better facilities and opportunities, Black players were marginalized, forming their own leagues with limited resources. These structures not only reflected the racist ideologies of the time but also entrenched disparities that would take decades to overcome.

Post-War Migration and Racial Tensions in European Football

The mid-20th century saw an influx of immigrants from former colonies into European nations, particularly the UK, France, and the Netherlands. These migrants brought with them exceptional footballing talent but were met with widespread discrimination. Players of African and Caribbean descent often faced racist abuse from fans, teammates, and even coaches.

One notable example is the treatment of Black players in England during the 1970s and 1980s. Legends like Cyrille Regis faced monkey chants and banana-throwing incidents, reflecting the deep-seated prejudice in British football. Despite their contributions on the pitch, these players were often dehumanized, illustrating how societal racism infiltrated football stadiums.

Racism and Institutional Exclusion

Institutional racism also played a significant role in limiting opportunities for minority players. Scouting networks and youth academies often overlooked talent from minority communities, citing stereotypes about their “work ethic” or “temperament.” Moreover, managerial and administrative roles remained almost exclusively the domain of white men, perpetuating systemic inequality within football organizations.

For instance, in the United States, Black players were largely absent from professional soccer leagues until the late 20th century. Even when they broke through, they were often paid less and received fewer endorsements compared to their white counterparts.

The Role of Fans and Media

Fan culture has also contributed to the perpetuation of racism in football. In many cases, fans have used racial slurs and abusive chants to intimidate players of color. This behavior has been particularly prevalent in countries like Italy, Spain, and Russia, where ultra fan groups have openly displayed racist banners and engaged in coordinated abuse campaigns.

The media has often exacerbated these issues by perpetuating stereotypes and focusing disproportionately on the mistakes of minority players. For decades, Black players were described as “naturally athletic” but “lacking intelligence,” a narrative that undermined their achievements and reinforced racial bias.

Modern-Day Repercussions

Although progress has been made in combating racism in football, its historical roots continue to influence the sport. High-profile players like Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Vinícius Júnior have spoken out against the racism they’ve endured, highlighting that the issue is far from resolved. Social media has provided a new platform for racial abuse, amplifying the voices of those who seek to demean players of color.

Quotes from Football Stars on Racism

• Raheem Sterling: “When it happens in football stadiums, it’s not taken as seriously as if it were in the street. That’s the biggest problem. When I hear someone call me a monkey or something else, it’s personal. But when I go home, I’m still Black, and I have to live with that every day.”
• Kalidou Koulibaly: “In those moments when I hear the monkey chants, I feel very small. I feel the weight of the color of my skin. But it won’t stop me from fighting because I know I’m more than what they say I am.”
• Vinícius Júnior: “Racists keep coming to stadiums and watching the biggest club in the world up close, and La Liga continues to do nothing. I will continue with my head held high and celebrating my victories and those of Madrid.”
• Cyrille Regis: “If someone is going to throw bananas at me, I’m going to go out and score goals to shut them up. It’s the only way to rise above it.”
• Kevin-Prince Boateng: “We are in the year 2025, and this is still happening. It’s not acceptable, and we can’t just talk about it anymore. We need action.”

Conclusion: Learning from History

Understanding the historical roots of racism in football is crucial to addressing its modern manifestations. By acknowledging the colonial legacies, systemic exclusions, and cultural biases that shaped the sport, football organizations and fans can work toward a more inclusive and equitable future. The journey is far from over, but with sustained efforts, the beautiful game can become a symbol of unity rather than division.