Italy pledges to crack down on antisemitism in football 

Italian officials have signed a letter committing to crack down on antisemitic incidents at football matches.

The declaration forbids the use of racist and antisemitic language and symbols, which are not uncommon at matches.

For example, it prohibits players and fans from wearing the number 88, which refers to the eighth letter of the alphabet, H, and is often used by neo-nazis as a code for “Heil Hitler”.

The letter also sets out guidelines detailing how to suspend matches in cases of discriminatory incidents. 

Matteo Piantedosi, the Interior Minister, said that the initiative represents a “great contribution” to Italian football.

A spokesperson for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: “The ban on 88 shirts is part of a package of significant measures introduced by Italian football in the wake of a number of antisemitic incidents that have rocked the sport. The initiative includes the alignment of a code of ethics with the International Definition of Antisemitism, and a new policy to treat antisemitism like other forms of racism, including by suspending matches if supporters engage in antisemitic chants. Together, this is a serious and welcome package of reforms to combat anti-Jewish hatred in Italian football. We will be watching its effects.”

Campaign Against Antisemitism reports on news and incidents relating to antisemitism throughout Europe.