Italian football players will now be banned from wearing the number 88 on their jerseys as a measure to combat anti-Semitism in sports and stadiums, the local government announced on Tuesday.
“88” is the number neo-Nazis used as their motto, referring to the cry “Heil, Hitler” since H is the eighth letter of the alphabet.
The measure is part of a package of measures to combat anti-Semitism in sport signed by the Italian government and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
Each club is committed to eliminating the number 88 from players’ jersey selections for the entire season.
In addition, fans are also prohibited from entering stadiums with any symbolism that may evoke Nazism or anti-Semitism, as well as punishing the use of discriminatory language.
For example, last season in Serie A, Lazio’s game in Rome was marked by Nazi and anti-Semitic chants.
Author: Portuguese
Source: CM Jornal
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