Lilian Thuram: “Racism Has No Place in Football” as He Receives Ethics Prize in Dakar
Lilian Thuram, former French defender and 1998 World Cup winner, has once again highlighted the importance of combating racism in football and sport. Speaking in Dakar on Saturday, Thuram received the prestigious Ethics Prize from the Kéba Mbaye Foundation and used the occasion to address the ongoing issue of racial discrimination within the world of football and beyond.
“Racism has no place in football, beyond sport,” Thuram asserted, emphasizing that the fight against racism should transcend the football pitch. The former French international, who now leads the Lilian Thuram Foundation for Education and Against Racism, is a strong advocate for the belief that “the two things—racism and sport—do not go together.”
Thuram, who has been a vocal critic of racism for years, pointed to the increasing presence of black coaches in French football as a symbol of positive change. “We are increasingly seeing black coaches, especially in the lower categories of clubs,” he said, noting that this shift reflects the growing diversity within football’s management ranks. He sees this as evidence that “France is enough of an example to understand that this phenomenon [racism] cannot prosper.”
The French legend also underscored the importance of education in addressing the root causes of racism. “We must enrich our knowledge to help the most racist people become more human,” he explained. For Thuram, sport plays a central role in shaping a more inclusive society, noting that “sport is the best way to develop the greatness of the human being.”
Thuram, who remains focused on his foundation’s work, clarified that he “is not yet in the mood to get involved in politics,” emphasizing that his efforts are centered on social change through education and advocacy against racism.
The €10,000 (6 million FCFA) prize Thuram received will be used to fund the activities of his foundation, which primarily works with young children. The foundation’s mission is to educate future generations on the importance of combating racism and fostering inclusion.
As Thuram continues his advocacy work, his message remains clear: Racism must be eradicated from all corners of society, especially within the realm of sport.
