Racism in Soccer World to be Probed in Federation-Backed Documentary ‘Patrick Vieira – Off the Bench’

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October 10, 2022

By Elsa Keslassy, Variety

A new documentary will examine racism in soccer (Eric Gaillard/Reuters)

Federation Studios, the outfit behind the international Emmy award-nominated documentary “Nadia,” is set to co-produce “Patrick Vieira – Off the Bench,” a social-impact documentary shedding light on racism in the world of soccer and beyond.

Vieira, the current coach of Crystal Palace, the English Premier League club, has been a pillar for the biggest European clubs, from Arsenal to Juventus, Inter Milan and Manchester City. He’s also been a member and captain of the French national team which won the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 European Championship.

A well-respected figure within the sports landscape who went from player to coach for one of the world’s most prestigious soccer teams, Vieira says he has witnessed and experienced structural racism.

“In 2022, Black players continue to be insulted on the field and on social media,” says Vieira. “There are only two Black coaches in first division on the entire European continent including me! How can we change this?”

Learn more about the upcoming film.

Racism in soccer is a longstanding issue that impacts Brazilian athletes.

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