Inter Vice-President Javier Zanetti took the opportunity to stress the importance of battling against racism in football as he participated in an event with the club’s youth sector.
With Thursday 18 March dedicated to anti-racism in the sport, Zanetti was joined by current Nerazzurri defender Matteo Darmian in a video call and presentation to the boys and girls of the youngest teams within the club.
“For Inter, the issue of combatting all forms of discrimination is of fundamental importance,” Zanetti declared, as reported on Inter’s official website.
“This meeting demonstrates how the values of inclusion and brotherhood have always been at the heart of the club since its foundation.
“When you see racism, it’s vital not to remain indifferent. You need to vigorously fight it, even when you haven’t directly been the victim of it. This is the only way to change things,” the former captain continued.
Italy international Darmian also offered his opinion to the young audience, whilst pre-recorded messages from FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Italian Olympic Federation President Giovanni Malago were shown.
“It saddens me that racism is still such an issue in 2021,” Darmian claimed.
“It’s important to continue to fight it, not only through words but with concrete actions too. It’s also vital to raise awareness about the issue among the youngest members of our society.”
Inter used the opportunity to promote their campaign against racism through BUU – Brothers Universally United and invited Senegalese goalkeeper Saidou Omar Daffe to share his experiences, having been the victim of racist abuse whilst playing for Aggazanese in a match against Bagnolese in 2019.
