Jude Bellingham Calls for Stronger Actions Against Racial Abuse in Football

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham believes that players should play a bigger role in tackling racism in soccer. During an interview with CNN's Amanda Davies, the 20-year-old midfielder expressed his desire for stronger actions to be taken against fans who racially abuse players in the stadium.

Bellingham has consistently spoken out on this issue during his career. Recently, he urged soccer's governing bodies to provide more support after his teammate Vinícius Júnior faced racist abuse.

Brazil's forward Vinicius Junior cries as he gives a press conference on the eve of the international friendly football match between Spain and Brazil at the Ciudad Real Madrid training ground in Valdebebas, outskirts of Madrid, on March 25, 2024. Spain arranged a friendly against Brazil at the Santiago Bernabeu under the slogan "One Skin" to help combat racism. (Photo by Pierre-Philippe MARCOU / AFP) (Photo by PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU/AFP via Getty Images)

Brazil's forward Vinicius Junior was seen shedding tears during a press conference held before the international friendly football match between Spain and Brazil. The match took place at the Ciudad Real Madrid training ground in Valdebebas, located on the outskirts of Madrid, on March 25, 2024. Spain and Brazil came together for a friendly game at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, organized under the theme "One Skin" to stand against racism. (Photo by Pierre-Philippe MARCOU / AFP) (Photo by PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU/AFP via Getty Images)

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Bellingham believes that there should be stricter consequences to deter people from engaging in such behavior in the future. He emphasized the importance of implementing more severe penalties.

He also suggested involving the players in addressing the issue. Bellingham pointed out that players are the ones directly impacted by these incidents, unlike the officials in charge of the game.

“If they want to know what they think is fair or if they are confused, there are players all over Spain and the world that they can speak to. I encourage them to take advantage of that,” said Bellingham. In a 2022 interview with CNN, he expressed his doubts about whether authorities truly care about racist abuse towards Black players.

Bellingham firmly believes, "It shouldn't be happening."

Earlier this year, Brazilian superstar Vinícius Jr. became emotional during a press conference as he opened up about facing racist abuse while playing for Real Madrid in Spain.

The 23-year-old player has unfortunately experienced racism from fans of opposing teams several times. This includes a disturbing incident where an effigy of him was hung from a bridge before a match against Atlético Madrid in January 2023, as well as facing ongoing racial abuse during a game against Valencia later that same year.

Racist slurs were captured on camera during Madrid's matches at Osasuna, Mallorca, Real Valladolid, and Atlético.

An emotional Vinícius expressed his feelings to reporters earlier this year, stating "I just want to play football, but it's difficult to keep going... I feel less and less motivated to play."

Bellingham won the Laureus World Sports Breakthrough of the Year award on Monday.

Bellingham won the Laureus World Sports Breakthrough of the Year award on Monday.

Bellingham understands that players should not have to solve the issues on their own. However, he is determined to raise awareness in order to push the game's governing bodies to take action.

"We can all come together, regardless of our skin color, to help put an end to this issue. We are all on the same team and we all find it unacceptable," said Bellingham.

"It's wrong and it shouldn't be happening. I am hopeful to see how those in charge involve the players in stopping it from happening again in the future."

CNN has contacted La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for their comments.

In a statement to CNN Sport in 2023, La Liga explained that it does not have the authority to directly penalize clubs or fans. Instead, any incidents are reported to RFEF committees or regional prosecutors, who handle them as legal cases before any sporting penalties are issued.

FIFA recently restated its commitment to combatting racism in soccer to CNN Sport. The organization emphasized that addressing this issue will be a key focus at the upcoming FIFA Congress in May.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced that the 74th FIFA Congress will play a crucial role in implementing stronger measures globally to combat racism. These measures will be carried out in collaboration with all member associations and confederations.

European soccer’s governing body UEFA told CNN Sport that it has continued to publicly denounce racism and has launched multiple campaigns to try tackle the issue.

Real Madrid superstar

Bellingham has flourished since joining Real Madrid from German side Borussia Dortmund at the start of the season, settling in much more quickly than many had expected.

MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 21: Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona shows his dejection at the end of the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 21, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona looks disappointed after the LaLiga EA Sports match against Real Madrid CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 21, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. The photo was taken by David Ramos/Getty Images.

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Playing for one of the most well-known soccer teams in the world has inspired the young player to improve his skills, making him one of the top players globally.

"I feel like Madrid is my second home now. I have a strong bond with the fans and the people here. I am really happy," he shared.

The midfielder's recent last-minute goal secured a victory for Madrid in the controversial El Clásico match on Sunday. This is just one example of the many game-changing moments he has had during his time at the Spanish giant.

Despite being a newcomer, there is a possibility that Bellingham could end up winning both the league title and the Champions League trophy in his debut season at the club. This goes to show the significant impact he has had on the team.

Bellingham will play a key role for England in the upcoming European Championships, even though he will be away from his club during the tournament. England, led by Gareth Southgate, is considered as one of the top contenders to win the title. Bellingham is eager to help his team improve on their second-place finish at Euro 2020.

"We have a lot of talent and a great mix of experience and youth," he said confidently. "Many of the guys are in excellent form."

"We need to carry over the confidence from the previous tournaments and aim to improve in this one."

Editor's P/S:

Jude Bellingham's passionate plea for action against racism in soccer highlights the urgent need for change. As a prominent player in one of the world's most renowned teams, Bellingham's voice carries significant weight and his demand for stricter consequences and player involvement resonates deeply. The issue of racism has plagued the sport for far too long, and Bellingham's call for stronger measures to deter perpetrators is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and respectful environment.

It is imperative that soccer's governing bodies heed Bellingham's call and prioritize the implementation of severe penalties for racist behavior. Additionally, involving players in the decision-making process is essential, as they are the ones directly affected by these incidents. Their insights and perspectives can contribute to the development of effective solutions that address the root causes of racism and promote a culture of tolerance and respect within the sport.