FIFA taskforce wants racism observers at matches

London: Fifa`s Task Force Against Racism and Discrimination have outlined a proposal to install racism observers at football matches.

The game has come under scrutiny this season with several players, notably AC Milan`s Kevin-Prince Boateng, becoming victims of racist abuse from supporters, with the Rossoneri midfielder walking from the field following one such episode in a friendly against Pro Patria. Fifa`s plan is to send an official to every stadium to identify acts of racism and discrimination in a bid to relieve some of the pressure on referees. There would also be a two-stage application of sanctions, one for first time offenders (such as warnings, fines or a closed door match) and another for repeat offenders (such as points deductions, expulsion from a competition or relegation). The newly-assembled group, headed by vice-president and CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb, has been created in a bid to end discrimination in football and ensure individual member associations take responsibility for imposing sanctions. Goal.com