This archive report was first published on 1 August 2019.
Published on August 1, 2019, the English Football Association has taken a significant step to combat racist abuse in the sport by increasing its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders to six matches.
This move comes in response to an annual report from British anti-discriminatory body Kick It Out, which showed a 43% rise in reports of racist abuse in English football last season.
Chelsea banned a supporter for life last week for racially abusing winger Raheem Sterling during a Premier League home match against Manchester City.
World soccer governing body FIFA doubled its minimum ban for racism to 10 games last month, as soccer's authorities attempt to clamp down on racist incidents.
The FA's six-game ban can be increased depending on aggravating factors, and the organization is also in talks with stakeholders to combat discrimination on and off the pitch.
The FA is reviewing the minimum match-based suspension for proven cases of discrimination to ensure the deterrent is effective.
Additionally, the FA has given match officials the authority to show managers and backroom staff yellow and red cards, representing cautions and dismissals.
