Weah, Drogba and other African legends join FIFA’s global panel to combat racism in football

Five African football greats are among 16 former players named to a new FIFA panel channelled towards strengthening the fight against racism in the sport, Afrosport reports.

George Weah (Liberia), Didier Drogba (Cote d’Ivoire), Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo), Khalilou Fadiga (Senegal), and Mercy Akide (Nigeria) are all part of the dedicated players’ voice panel.

FIFA initially announced plans for the panel during its annual congress in Thailand in May 2024.

It now includes high-profile names like former Ballon d’Or winner Weah, ex-Chelsea striker Drogba, and former Arsenal forward Adebayor among other male and female players from 14 different countries.

The group will serve an advisory role, supporting FIFA’s anti-racism strategy, contributing to educational programmes, and helping to drive reform at every level of the game.

Speaking on the appointment, Weah, who has been named honorary captain of the panel, said: “Football brings unity and development. It also enhances humanity. I will always exert all efforts, as I have done in the past and continue to do, to promote the sport because football is life. I am honoured to serve in this role.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino added that the panel would push for meaningful change: “They will further drive a cultural shift in football, ensuring that anti-racism measures are not merely discussed but implemented, both on and off the pitch.”

He continued: “Let’s be clear—racism and discrimination are not just wrong; they are crimes. Every incident, whether in stadiums or online, must be fully punished—not just by football authorities, but by society as a whole.”

FIFA’s Global Anti-racism Panel