"As players of Asian heritage gain visibility in top leagues and international tournaments, they often face both overt and subtle forms of racism," Shoko Tsuji, Secretary General of FIFPRO Asia/Oceania, said. "This can include online abuse, stereotyping, exclusion, and verbal harassment. However, these experiences are frequently unreported, dismissed or misunderstood, leading to a culture of silence and isolation.
"As such, this report aims to identify the different types of anti-Asian racism and how they manifest, highlight the prevalence of the issue, its harm, and how football can take steps to tackle it."
The campaign is part of FIFPRO’s broader commitment to player rights and anti-discrimination. Recent initiatives include the #ItsPersonal campaign, stakeholder collaboration on anti-discrimination policies and education, as well as sustained advocacy on inclusive football governance.
"This report and campaign amplify the often-unseen experiences of many players of Asian heritage, especially those competing outside their home countries, where isolation can deepen the impact of racism," Erica Puppo, FIFPRO’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Manager, said. "This is only the first phase of a longer campaign. FIFPRO will continue to work with unions, players and global partners to ensure every footballer, regardless of background, can thrive in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment."
