“In games of sport, some things are open to interpretation but others, like the actions of the Paris Saint Germain (PSG)-Istanbul Basaksehir match referee, are unacceptable.

Identifying someone for whatever it may be – skin colour or origins – plunges mankind into the vilest of places. Sport has very specific rules of fairplay, respecting impartiality and the dignity of all and, bearing this in mind, its seems essential to clarify that it is the responsibility of institutions, leaders and, of course, referees, to guarantee this.

Over and above cracking down on the act itself, we would like to salute the collective conscience of the players in the PSG-Basaksehir match and their steadfast reaction to leave the field in the face of what they considered to be unacceptable behaviour. Our society needs role models in order to move forward and bring about the changes necessary for an evolution to a more just, more equitable and more inclusive world.

We are proud that, with this strong and meaningful stance, these athletes have stood up for what is dear to the human race: respect, dignity and the acceptance of others.”