Why Cristiano Ronaldo Had Red Face Paint On This Weekend

Players in Serie A sported red face paint throughout this weekend's fixtures as part of a scheme to raise awareness of domestic violence against women.

The red stripe is the symbol used for the movement, driven by Italian humanitarian organisation WeWorld Onlus, the players' association and the Lega Serie A.

So to send a message, a number of players and referees in the top tier will bear the mark across their cheek in this weekend's fixtures.

Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, Napoli captain Marek Hamsik, Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi and AC Milan goalkeeper Gigi Donnarumma are just four of the big names to be involved in the campaign, which is in its second year.

In fact, Ronaldo sported the red face paint during Juventus' win over S.P.A.L this weekend.

Back in April, several players posted pictures of themselves alongside their wives and girlfriends with the hashtag: #unrossoallaviolenza (a red card against violence.)

A great gesture.

To further raise awareness, girls wearing the campaign shirts will walk out onto the pitch before the game, while a banner will be present at each stadium and a campaign video will air on the big screens.

The hope is now that the campaign will continue to build momentum, and help bring such an important message to the public.