Football introduces 'X' gesture in FIFA competitions for very important reason

A new, positive change to football has been rolled out across FIFA tournaments.

On Saturday, the Under-20 Women’s World Cup kicked off in Colombia and the competition marks as the debut of a new anti-racism gesture.

Back in May, The Athletic reported that FIFA were placing emphasis on eradicating racism from football and had the idea of a new addition to the three-stop protocol in the event of racist abuse.

It was put to all 211 members of various associations, who then voted at the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok earlier this year.

Going forward, players suffering from vile racist abuse are able to alert referees by performing a 'X' symbol with their arms.

After this has happened, the official then has the power to pause the game before deciding if it will be suspended or abandoned should the abuse continue.

The X, where arms are crossed at the wrists, is being called a “global standard gesture” and is part of a five-pillar plan put together in a bid to stop racism.

FIFA

FIFA consulted to players past and present to get their thoughts on the direction to take.

Other key points include the formation of a new Players' Anti-Racism panel, making sure all associations' rulebooks state that racism is a specific offence and a criminal offence for every government.

The X will be brought in all FIFA competitions, including the Club World Cup.

"Implementing the 'No Racism' gesture at the FIFA Under-20 Women's World Cup 2024 in Colombia is a key first step to empowering players throughout the world," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said.

"Now enshrined in the three-step procedure, we look forward to seeing this rolled out all over the world to maximum effect.

"This was backed through unanimous support at the FIFA Congress by all 211 FIFA Member Associations. I thank FIFA's members for their determination and efforts in what is a united fight to eradicate racism from football, and society, for good.

"I would like to thank all the players – current and past – that contributed to this step forward."