Anti-racist activism by fans in European football

The project investigated anti-racism activities by fan groups across Europe. The research was a comparative study of three European fan groups from Italy, Germany and Poland; exploring their ideals, aims, activities and achievements.

This approach was innovative as there are few comparative studies between anti-racist fan movements. By choosing to compare fan groups from Italy, Germany and Poland, this research provides a view of three different European football cultures. These three case studies address three national cultures with political engagement in football and traverse diverse cultures from Northern, Southern and Eastern Europe.

Grassroots anti-racism movements operate in difficult environments and this research sought to discern the similarities and differences of these contexts. This demonstrates the importance of comparative study in order to fully understand the local context.

The research looked at the importance of transferring knowledge between large institutions and local activists and the potential of making pan-European links. This will be important for future benefit to other groups in Europe. The research also investigated how these groups interact with other bodies, such as the football authorities, police and government, and whether this knowledge can be transferred elsewhere, and identify ‘best practice’.

The project recognised that anti-racism requires a multi-faceted approach. Clubs and fans need to be empowered and supported to challenge racist behaviour. Clubs are well placed to support anti-racism initiatives and remove it from wider ‘politics’. More importantly, money needs to be invested in education, rather than punitive sanctions.