FIFA has made a powerful statement in the fight against racism in football, unveiling major reforms to its Disciplinary Code—changes that were unanimously approved by the FIFA Council at the 74th FIFA Congress.
This landmark update sends a clear message: discriminatory behavior has no place in football. The revised code enforces stricter accountability across all 211 FIFA Member Associations, introducing firm measures to tackle racism head-on.
One of the biggest shifts is the mandatory inclusion of a three-step anti-discrimination protocol in Article 15, which compels confederations and national associations to take immediate and decisive action when racist incidents occur. The maximum fine for such offenses has also been increased to CHF 5 million, reflecting FIFA’s zero-tolerance policy.
Players and officials now share the responsibility of identifying perpetrators to help ensure swift and effective justice. Member Associations are also required to align their own disciplinary rules with FIFA’s updated standards. Should any association fall short, FIFA retains the right to step in—or even appeal decisions to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the changes a “step change” in the organization’s mission to create a more inclusive game:
“The revised Disciplinary Code represents a step change in FIFA’s objective to enhance its regulatory framework to prosecute and sanction discrimination and racist abuse.”
In addition to the anti-racism reforms, the FIFA Council also approved new regulations for the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 Intercontinental Cup. Preparations are already underway for the 75th FIFA Congress, set for May 15, 2025, in Asunción, Paraguay.
This reform isn’t just about policy—it’s about protecting the spirit of the game and ensuring that football is truly for everyone.
