Saints support No Room For Racism campaign

The initiative, which runs until Monday 8th April, will see clubs across the country join forces as they and the League display their commitment to tackling discrimination in the game.

The campaign aims to use the power and popularity of the Premier League to oppose racism in the sport, as well as celebrating diversity in the top-flight of English football and recognising the significant contribution made by Kick It Out in tackling discrimination since the organisation was formed 25 years ago.

Across the next two rounds of matches, both the No Room For Racism and Kick It Out messaging and branding will be promoted in various ways, including via the use of special captains’ armbands, featuring the Kick It Out logo.

As recently as last month, the Premier League and its clubs discussed enhancing the range of programmes currently in operation to promote inclusion and diversity across the game, agreeing that, while good work has been undertaken to date, more needs to be done to ensure fans and players are supported.

Clubs also put their weight behind plans to further improve career pathways to encourage more people from different backgrounds to take up coaching, refereeing and administrative roles in the sport. 

As well as the next two rounds of top-flight games, the initiative will also be visible at Premier League Academy matches and other national events across the coming days.

the no room for racism campaign makes it clear discrimination will not be accepted by the premier league and our clubs.

richard masters
premier league interim chief executive

Premier League Interim Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “Together with our clubs, we are proud of the diversity throughout the Premier League, in the stands, on the pitch and within our communities. 

“Working with Kick It Out since 1993, great progress has been made in tackling racism through a range of initiatives and club partnerships. We are also aware that much more needs to be done, and the Premier League is committed to further promoting inclusion and diversity throughout our competition and beyond.

“It is evident there is still a minority of people who think discriminatory behaviour is acceptable, but the No Room for Racism campaign makes it clear that it will not be accepted by the Premier League and our clubs.

“We know how passionate football fans are, but this should never lead to any form of prejudice. We want everybody to be positive and respectful, create a welcoming atmosphere and show that football is everyone’s game.” 

At Southampton, we are committed to promoting equality, inclusivity and diversity across the club, our fanbase and the wider community, and we do not accept discrimination in any form.

We encourage any supporters who are the victims of, or who witness, any form of discrimination to report it to us, with a dedicated text number having been launched by the club to allow fans to contact us immediately and discreetly.

To use the service, text ONEMARCH to 60060 with a description of what you have witnessed and the location so that we are able to tackle it appropriately.

Further details of the full range of ways in which you can contact us, or report incidents to the club or Kick It Out, are available by clicking here.