Turki Al-Dakheel

Al-Riyadh

Sports in our country develops with the social and cultural progress our society makes. I like the statement of a foreign coach who said racism was a social product which has penetrated our playgrounds. Racist chants of spectators, he said, have social connotations.



Europe, which understands sports very well, knows that racism — whether in stadiums or outside — has its roots in some social historic causes.



This disease cannot be cured only by meting out appropriate punishment to the guilty; continued efforts through education are required to eradicate the malady which has almost destroyed the beauty of the sport. Did I say it has also almost destroyed our humanity before that?



A sports columnist recently commented that a black player was unable to continue playing in Riyadh because of the growing racism in stadiums. Regrettably, there are many other similar examples.



Culture is an important prerequisite for any player. Being cultured does not, of course, mean that the player should be an academician or a philosopher. It is enough for him to be eloquent and well-mannered, and away from being chaotic or uncouth.



When our national football team was beaten 8-0 in Germany, one of the team members said those who were attacking the team were objecting to the destiny and fate decided by God. This is an example of uncultured players who do not know how, what and when to comment.



Sportsmen should not make remarks that may agitate the masses or ignite racist reactions. Spread of racism in our stadiums is a clear indication that we are severely lacking in culture and good manners.