Laliga v Racism: More than a campaign, a commitment – Panku

LaLiga Africa Managing Director Tresor Panku has reaffirmed the Spanish league’s unwavering commitment to combating racism in sport, emphasising that their efforts go beyond slogans and messaging.

Speaking alongside LaLiga Brand Director Ángel Fernandez in a media briefing with African journalists on Tuesday, Panku highlighted the league’s ongoing initiatives to address racial discrimination in football.

To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21, LaLiga, in partnership with EA Sports FC, launched the fourth edition of its VS RACISM campaign. This year, urban artist SUSO33 brings the campaign to life through his artwork, Melting Pot of Cultures, illustrating how football and urban art serve as universal languages that transcend borders, break barriers, and promote respect and dialogue among diverse cultures.

“At LaLiga, we firmly believe football is more than just a game - it’s a powerful force for social change. As one of the world’s leading leagues, we have a responsibility to set the standard for inclusivity, respect, and diversity, not just within stadiums but throughout society,” said Panku.

“That’s why LaLiga v Racism is not just a campaign -it’s a commitment. Over the past decade, LaLiga and its clubs have launched more than 700 initiatives to combat hate speech, discrimination, and violence in football.”

In June 2024, LaLiga achieved a historic milestone when three individuals accused of racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr. during a match against Valencia CF were sentenced to eight months in prison, banned from stadiums for two years, and ordered to cover legal costs. This ruling marked Spain’s first-ever conviction for racist abuse at a football match - an outcome driven by a direct complaint from LaLiga.

“This was a groundbreaking moment. Through legal action, stadium awareness campaigns, and digital monitoring tools like M.O.O.D (Monitor for the Observation of Hate in Sport), we are ensuring that racism has no place in football—or society,” added Panku.

AFRICA’S ROLE IN LALIGA’S VISION

Panku also emphasised Africa’s significant contribution to LaLiga’s global vision.

“This continent has given so much to world football, and we remain deeply committed to investing in its talent and communities. Initiatives like the Mzansi Equality League, Puma Street King, and LaLiga v Racism in Nigeria reflect this commitment,” he said.

In July 2024, the Community of Madrid officially recognised urban art as part of its Intangible Cultural Heritage, with SUSO33 among the selected artists receiving special recognition and protection.

“Collective action is crucial if we want to win this fight. Football is a vital part of society, and with great power comes great responsibility. That’s why we are taking a stand,” Fernandez added.

As in previous years, LaLiga players will wear commemorative jerseys on Matchday 28 in LaLiga EA Sports and Matchday 31 in LaLiga Hypermotion. These jerseys will be available in EA Sports FC 25 from March 21, with fans able to unlock them by completing in-game objectives.

Additionally, a special-edition **PUMA match ball**, inspired by SUSO33’s artwork, will be used on Matchday 29 in LaLiga EA Sports, Matchday 33 in LaLiga Hypermotion, and Matchday 24 in Liga F.