Fifa has revealed it has reported more than 30,000 abusive posts to social media platforms so far this year, as concerns around online harassment in football continue to rise.
In its latest report, world football’s governing body confirmed eleven individuals were referred to law enforcement authorities in 2025, with a further case submitted to Interpol. Those identified were based in Argentina, Brazil, France, Poland, Spain, the UK, and the US, following abuse directed at players, coaches, and match officials during Fifa competitions.
Marking the International Day for Tolerance, Fifa president Gianni Infantino said that football must remain a safe and inclusive environment at all levels — on the pitch, in the stands and online.
“Through the Fifa Social Media Protection Service and by deploying advanced technology and human expertise, Fifa is taking decisive action to protect players, coaches, teams and match officials from the serious harm that online abuse causes,” Infantino said.
The Fifa Social Media Protection Service (SMPS), created in partnership with FIFPRO in 2022, monitors abusive or threatening behaviour across major social platforms. During this year’s Club World Cup in the United States, SMPS tracked 2,401 active accounts, analysed almost 5.9 million posts, flagged 179,517 for review and reported 20,587 directly to the relevant platforms.
Fifa says more than 65,000 abusive posts have been reported since the service began, and individuals responsible may be banned from purchasing tickets for future tournaments.
Football Safety App to Launch This Year Amid Rising Safeguarding Pressures
As the issue of abuse continues to affect football at all levels, a new tool designed to support fans and protect victims is preparing for release.
The Football Safety App, now in the final stages of testing, will launch before the end of the year. Built to empower supporters, the app allows users to report incidents quickly and securely, whether the abuse takes place online, inside a stadium or in surrounding areas.
The app’s features include:
- Instant reporting tools for abusive or discriminatory behaviour
- Raw evidence captures through screenshots, video, and audio.
- Anonymous reporting options, protecting those who fear repercussions.
- A dedicated support hub, directing victims towards help and guidance.
- Direct links to safeguarding teams, clubs, and relevant authorities.
The platform is already prompting interest across the sport, with discussions underway between developers and several professional clubs as safeguarding concerns grow.
Organisations, leagues, clubs and supporter groups interested in partnering with the project or becoming early adopters can register interest at:
www.footballsafetyapp.com
See it. Report it. End it.
Public Input Sought on Tackling Online Abuse
With online abuse showing no signs of slowing, the Football Safety App team is calling for public participation to help shape the future of safeguarding in the sport.
Supporters, players, club staff, and officials are encouraged to share views on:
- The most effective ways to report abuse.
- What protections and tools fans need
- The level of support victims should receive.
- What consequences offenders should face?
Feedback will help guide continued development of the app and inform wider conversations around safeguarding in football.
