We are against racism
The President of the Ukrainian Football Federation (UFF) Hruhoriy Surkis made a program statement about the UFF management stance on the football racism combating, which was sent out to the employees of the National Federation, regional federations and associations as well as the media. The UFF is dead set on tackling racism, highlighted the UFF President in his statement. The football official went further to say that only joint efforts of players, coaches, stadium directors, referees, UFF officials and, obviously, fans and media folks would be efficient.
Dynamo foreign players on the issue of racism in Ukraine
Badr Kaddouri (Morocco)
Things have been going well for me here in Kyiv, both on and off the pitch. I have developed a tremendous rapport with all my team mates. More importantly, I always feel their backing and our squad longs to win every single match.
Life in Ukraine differs from that in Morocco – different culture, climate, cuisine… For me, a Muslim, the major difficulties are to crop up in the holy Month of Ramadan. I am doing my best to get accustomed to the new conditions, to make new friends and to make my “Ukrainian” life habitual.
To be honest, I do not encounter racism problems, however from the papers I get to know that some soccer players do face it in Europe. In my viewpoint, it is unacceptable to display intolerance towards somebody just because he is of different color or practices a different religion.
Diogo Rincón (Brazil)
My biggest problem in Kyiv is the language barrier. On the pitch, you can go by with the universal football language. Still, I study the language and have regular classes with my tutor.
I did not find it difficult to adapt in the team. All the Dynamo footballers are top level professionals, who help me both on and off the field. Also, my interpreter does a lot to help me get fully accustomed in Ukraine. I know the city rather well and feel its residents’, not only Dynamo fans, favorable attitude.
The racism fighting issue is getting crucial in Europe. Luckily, I have never heard offensive words or seen offensive posters at the stadium. I wish others never faced the problem.
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