Calling full time on sporting culture that excuses violence against women

As another story emerges where a prominent sportsman is accused of violence against women, Anthea Sully, Chief Executive of White Ribbon UK, issues a call to players, clubs and fans.

With depressing regularity there are news stories of sportsmen who are alleged to have been violent towards women, or who have been convicted of doing so. The latest has been Ryan Giggs standing down as manager of the Wales national team as he faces charges of controlling and coercive behaviour, which is a form of domestic abuse, against his former partner.

The reality is that there are cultures within men’s sport that are sexist and misogynist. In this environment, men’s violence is largely excused and ignored. Within minutes of the announcement of Ryan Giggs’ departure the conversation had immediately turned to his successor – this ‘let’s move on’ approach overlooks and effectively condones violence.

We are not talking about a few individuals, there needs to be wholesale change of attitudes from players, clubs and fans which must be reflected in reporting. However great someone is on the pitch fans cannot excuse appalling behaviour. Commentators need to be clear about standards and culture and fans need to think about their heroes – there can be no excuse for abuse and violence.

There are many areas where change needs to happen. Ryan Giggs came through a football youth academy. He has spoken of a culture on the pitch that was tough and brutal. Clubs cannot only focus on the playing ability of the teenagers in their care; it’s important for there to be a holistic approach to the rest of their lives.

There are some very positive behaviours that we should be emphasising in sport, such as being a supportive member of a team; being emotional winning or losing, or having self-discipline. These are a few of the traits we should foster.

We are seeing players who are going beyond this and demonstrating more positive masculinity. This should not be seen as exceptional – but rather something all sports people can emulate. 

White Ribbon UK has previously engaged with some football clubs. Our message to men in sport is strong and simple – talk about this and make the White Ribbon Promise to never use, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.  The current culture of sport contributes to a world where women feel unsafe. Not only at home, but in public spaces such as work and on a night out. This fosters environments where more extreme violence and abuse can happen. Working with White Ribbon can help shift this culture. We need more clubs to take action straight away.

White Ribbon Day, 25th November, where we shine a spotlight on how men can end violence against women, is taking place during the World Cup. Both Wales and England are taking part. There is evidence that violence against women increases during major tournaments. Let’s start talking about our expectations of behaviour around football now, as much as how our favourite teams are doing on the pitch.