The European Federation's "Respect" program saw the birth and success of the "No Racism Campaign". It also launched the "Real Scars", movement. This literally translates to "real scars".
This program, called "Online Abuse Leaves Marks", aims to bring attention to the terrible effects of online abuse. Insta-stadium insults have been a tradition for players.
This phenomenon is only getting more common with the rise of social networks and online betting.
This is the highest level of European football. It aims to raise awareness and create a platform for monitoring and reporting such abuse online.
Another documentary series, "Outraged", is being planned.
Olympique Lyonnais' Wendie Renard, Chelsea's midfielder Jorginho, and Alisha Lehmann, an Aston Villa player, are supporting the "Real Scars” campaign.
Online abuse is terrible because people don’t realize the damage they can cause. These words can have an effect on you and those you love," Jorginho, third place in the last Ballon d'Or, explains.
Alisha Lehmann, for her part, is a real ranter. Online abuse seems worse than real life because there are hundreds of people who relay these messages. People online are cowards, as they can hide behind a computer or a phone. They would never say these things to their faces in real life. They would probably ask you if you'd like to autograph or have your jersey."
UEFA will also launch a video campaign in which we will see the players who have been victims of online abuse during their career. Patrick Vieira, an ex-France midfielder, is part of this campaign as is Karen Carney, a sports journalist and former player, as well Jesus Tomillero Benavente (a Spanish referee who was subject to abuse in the line).
These clips will be displayed on huge screens at the Euros as well as on social media networks.
The Women's Euro will be held from July 6th to 31st, with a final at the iconic Wembley Stadium.
