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EU Backs Groundbreaking Initiative to Combat Online Abuse in Sports with €87M Grant

Carl Smith by Carl Smith
January 22, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
EU Backs Groundbreaking Initiative to Combat Online Abuse in Sports with €87M Grant
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A Victory for Safer Digital Spaces in Sports

The fight against online abuse in sports has gained a massive boost as the European Union awarded funding to the United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) campaign. The initiative, supported by the FIA Foundation, aims to foster inclusivity, integrity, and safety within the digital realm of sports across Europe.

From nearly 2,000 applicants, UAOA emerged as one of fewer than 100 selected projects, scoring an impressive 87 out of 100 for its proposal. This funding, awarded under the Erasmus+ programme, will support critical efforts to tackle the pervasive issue of online abuse targeting athletes, officials, and fans.


Transformative Steps to Combat Digital Harassment

The €87 million grant will fund a series of transformative projects spanning from January 2025 to January 2027. Spearheaded by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the initiative promises to implement innovative solutions and collaborations with stakeholders to foster a safer online environment.

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“This is a significant step in our mission to create a safer digital environment for all in sport,” said Sulayem. “With the EU’s support, we aim to deliver transformative and lasting change. Sport unites people, and the online space should reflect these values of integrity and inclusion.”

Key initiatives supported by the funding include:

  1. Stakeholder Training: Providing tools and support to athletes, officials, and sports organisations to address online harassment effectively.
  2. Collaboration with Governments and Platforms: Working with EU member states and tech companies to establish robust regulatory frameworks and improve online accountability.
  3. Legal Expertise and Advocacy: Leveraging input from Clark Hill LLP (Ireland) to ensure compliance with legal standards and introduce impactful policies.
  4. Research and Awareness Campaigns: Building on pioneering studies, such as the Sports Journalist Barometer, to understand the impact of online abuse and promote solutions.

A Pan-European Approach to Inclusivity

The campaign will involve collaboration across six EU countries, with the FIA (France) coordinating the initiative alongside four Member Clubs:

  • Automobile Club d’Italia (Italy)
  • Royal Automobile Club of Belgium (Belgium)
  • Real Automóvil Club de España (Spain)
  • Automobile and Touring Club of Slovenia (Slovenia)

This broad coalition underscores the pan-European commitment to addressing online harm through unified action.


Milestones Achieved and Future Goals

Since its inception in 2023, UAOA has made significant strides, including:

  • Launching international awareness campaigns.
  • Conducting pioneering research into the impact of online abuse.
  • Gaining endorsements from UNESCO, the Council of Europe, and various national governments.

In December 2024, the campaign released the first Sports Journalist Barometer, highlighting the scale of abuse faced by journalists worldwide. The upcoming edition will shift focus to the toll online harassment takes on athletes, aiming to shed light on the human cost of digital hate.

Erin Bourke, UAOA Project Leader, emphasized the importance of the EU’s backing: “The funding recognizes the progress made by UAOA since its inception. This initiative will equip stakeholders with the tools needed to create a safer online environment while working collaboratively with governments and platforms to establish effective frameworks.”


A New Era for Sports in the Digital Age

The EU funding solidifies UAOA’s position as a global leader in combating online harm in sports. By combining research, education, and advocacy, the initiative seeks to transform the digital space into one of respect and inclusivity.

As the project unfolds, it stands as a beacon of hope for athletes, officials, and fans, proving that a safer, more inclusive online environment is not just a goal but an achievable reality.

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