It is a privilege to have been invited to play my part in tackling the rising risk of online abuse, online hate and hate crime in sport, supporting the International Federation of Motorsport's (FIA) United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) global, collaborative combat initiative.

"The level of sustained toxicity has reached crisis point. It is time for all of us to unite - and to act." - FIA President, Ben Sulayem.

Athletes, officials and volunteers are at risk, particulary females and young adults who are eager social media users. The high-competition.. high-rivalry nature of sport creates a culture of "us" and "them" which, when overlayed with prejudice, disrespect, intolerance and hate, can turn nasty, with or without malicious intent. This is amplified on digital platforms where e-sports, online communiities and online betting are growing.

While this plays out online, the high performers in sport are trying their very best to play their A-Game, represent their sport and countries and to earn an income. The negativity, insults and threats turn toxic, causing psychological and emotional harm to the individual and, over time, eroding the spirit of sport.

“Maybe you can think that it doesn’t hurt us. But it does. We are humans … sometimes, when we receive (these) messages, we are already emotionally destroyed after a tough loss...” - Caroline Garcia, female professional tennis player, after losing at losing at the first round of the US Open, 28 August 2024 (full post on X, formerly Twitter).

The research project is targeted for completion in 2026. This topic touches on the delicate balance between human rights and freedom of speech which requires upgraded due care in the digital era. On this basis, my reseach will investigate the strategic rationale and governance principles that support the combat of online abuse by federations across selected sports, including cricket, cycling, golf, motorsport, tennis and rugby. I urge sports federation leaders not to wait for published research but to apply due care and put online abuse higher on the agenda.

International and national federations are invited to get in touch directly or through Motorsport South Africa or the UAOA.

Sport must continue to be a force of unity, not division. Play Your Part - practice mindful kindness, online and everywhere.

Click on the latest press release and research context for more details.