Football and Racism: How Colonialism Shaped the Modern Game

A powerful and insightful exploration of racism in football, delving into its origins, crafted by the acclaimed journalist Ronny Blaschke.
The issue of racism in football is often oversimplified to just neo-Nazi groups and monkey chants. To truly grasp its origins, we must delve deeper into the past. Based on over 100 interviews conducted across five continents, this compelling investigation uncovers how: Colonial powers like Britain and France aimed to 'civilise' their subjects by means of sport.
Their racial theory has been thoroughly discredited, yet prejudiced attitudes continue to permeate European football today. While Black individuals are frequently viewed as formidable athletes, they seldom receive the chance to ascend to coaching or board positions.
The remnants of colonial thinking continue to influence talent scouting, sponsorship, and media representation.
Racism continues to cast a shadow over football in Britain, Brazil, Namibia, and India, among other regions.
This book revolves around individuals—players, fans, and activists—who confront racism with unwavering courage and determination. In England, black referees are coming together to amplify their presence and influence. In Brazil, journalists are creating a podcast that focuses on Afro-Brazilian topics in the realm of sports. Ultimately, the pressing inquiry is: what measures can be taken to combat racism in football?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ronny Blaschke is one of the most respected sports journalists in Germany. For more than 20 years, he has covered political issues in football—especially violence, racism and the abuse of power. Blaschke has written six books and received numerous awards, including ‘Football Book of the Year’ and ‘Sports Journalist of the Year’. He incorporates his research into political education and has given hundreds of lectures.
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Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd
Published: January 20, 2025
Price: £16.99
Paperback: 256 pages
ISBN-10 : 1801509328
ISBN-13 :  9781801509329
Dimensions: 216 x 138 (mm)