FIFA Fair Play

The generic concept of fair play is a fundamental part of the game of football. It represents the positive benefits of playing by the rules, using common sense and respecting fellow players, referees, opponents and fans.

The Fair Play Campaign was conceived largely as an indirect result of the 1986 FIFA World Cup™ in Mexico, when the handball goal by Diego Maradona stimulated the admirable reaction of the England coach, Sir Bobby Robson. Since then, the campaign has had the unconditional support of former FIFA President João Havelange and his successor, current President Joseph S. Blatter.

To give fair play more visibility, FIFA created a programme that turned the generic notion into a simple design and an easy to understand code of conduct that could be recognized and respected by players and fans alike.

Fair Play has a fundamental role in sport and there is a need to apply it to all sporting activities, especially children’s. Children need strong values to grow up with, and football, being a team sport, makes them realize how essential discipline, respect, team spirit and fair play are for the game and for life.

Internet: <www.fifa.com> (adapted).