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Rising Crisis in Sports: Online Abuse Targeting Referees and Officials

A recent report from the FIA's United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) campaign has unveiled a disturbing truth: online abuse is increasingly directed at referees and officials, posing a significant threat to the sports community. This document acts as a stark reminder of the myriad challenges faced by those ensuring fairness in competitions.

Key Findings from the 2025 Barometer

The 2025 Barometer, launched at the FIA Officials Summit in Madrid, reveals that half of identified incidents of online abuse are misogynistic or racist, highlighting an alarming rise compared to previous years. Furthermore, 75% of federations surveyed reported that threats against athletes, referees, and their families are ongoing, demonstrating a culture of fear that is leading to a talent drain in many sports.

The ramifications of unchecked online abuse cannot be understated. A staggering 90% of federations believe that unless this issue is addressed effectively, athletes might quit their sports altogether. Such a trend could potentially diminish the talent pool and undermine the very fabric of competitive fairness.

The Expanding Scope of Abuse

As misogyny and racism become more prevalent online, the abuse directed at officials is also increasing. According to the report, 50% of federations have indicated that officials and volunteers are now regular targets of abuse. This widening scope shifts the problem's intensity and urgency, necessitating immediate intervention from all stakeholders involved in sports.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President, emphasized the necessity for action, stating that while previous reports focused on the toll of online abuse on competitors, this new finding brings to light the equally unacceptable treatment faced by referees and officials. These figures paint a troubling picture of a critical issue within the sports ecosystem that must be addressed.

Coalition for Change

In response to these findings, the UAOA has intensified its efforts to facilitate collaboration across various sectors. This includes launching a groundbreaking EU-backed initiative aimed at combating online abuse across Europe, alongside plans for a major conference in North America scheduled for summer 2025. These efforts aim to unify stakeholders and develop actionable solutions to combat the rise of online harassment.

Among the coalition's notable achievements are a 150% increase in membership over the past year and securing €400,000 in funding to create a pan-European framework to combat online abuse in sports. The coalition now comprises 28 members, including nine national governments and leading sports federations.

In addition, the UAOA has launched the first open-access educational module focusing on anti-online abuse, already enrolling over 150 students. This is complemented by the establishment of the UAOA Scholarship Programme, which funds research into online misogyny within motorsport.

Moving Forward

For the sporting community, the time for decisive action is now. As highlighted by Ben Sulayem, fostering collaboration among the sporting, political, and technological sectors is essential to protecting all involved. The success of the UAOA's initiatives and the collaborative frameworks being developed will ultimately determine the future landscape of sports.

For further information and to view the complete findings of the UAOA report, visit United Against Online Abuse

The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but with sustained commitment and collective action against online abuse, there is hope for a safer environment in sports for everyone involved.