Former cricketer Azeem Rafiq and ex-rugby referee Wayne Barnes are among those who have shared their experiences of suffering abuse with researchers. The project, led by the government’s online safety regulator Ofcom, aimed to examine the impact of online hate on people in sports.
Ofcom collaborated with Kick It Out, a football anti-discrimination charity, to gather insights from figures across sport and broadcasting, including broadcaster Eni Aluko. Their stories highlight the severity of the issue.
Key Findings
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Impact of Abuse:
- One individual reported barricading themselves indoors after being subjected to abuse.
- Others experienced disordered eating due to fear of further attacks.
- Common consequences included fear, anxiety, and paranoia.
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Statistics from Ofcom’s Report:
- 71% experienced harassment or bullying while working or competing as athletes.
- 45% reported receiving threats.
- 34% had been sent abusive messages.
- 23% were targeted by racist language or slurs.
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Emotional and Mental Health Effects:
- 25% felt anxious about going out in public due to fear of abuse.
- 33% felt fearful about going out alone.
- 46% avoided social media because it made them feel anxious or upset.
- 69% reported feeling isolated as a result of online abuse.
- 50% said it affected their mental health.
- 36% admitted it affected their physical health.
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Gender Disparities:
- Women were more likely than men to be targeted by racist language or slurs while competing as athletes, but less likely in roles such as coaching.
- Referees were most commonly targeted for racism when officiating matches involving black players, but not in games between white players.
Call to Action
Kick It Out chief executive Tony Burnett emphasized the report’s findings, stating, "This report highlights just how widespread racism is within our game." He noted the need for further progress towards inclusivity and called for:
- Greater support for victims, including access to therapy sessions.
- A review of clubs’ social media policies to clarify acceptable behavior off-field.
Ofcom believes that current tools like blocking or muting accounts offered by online platforms are insufficient for protecting users from hate speech. Consequently, they are working on a code of practice for companies to meet their legal duties under UK law. This research will help shape their efforts to address online hate in sports.
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