FIFA has launched a new Players’ Voice Panel, a 16-member group of football legends set to drive its global fight against racism. Former Ballon d’Or winner George Weah will serve as honorary captain.

The panel includes icons such as Didier Drogba, Emmanuel Adebayor, Mercy Akide, Formiga, Briana Scurry, Iván Córdoba and others, representing 14 countries. Their mandate: advise on anti-racism policies, lead education campaigns, and push for cultural change in football.

The initiative has already been tested, with the panel reaching out to support Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo after he faced racist abuse at Anfield in August.

With stricter sanctions in place, including fines up to 5 million Swiss francs and the power to abandon matches, FIFA hopes this player-led body will bring credibility and stronger action to a persistent problem in the game.

Full Panel List:

• George Weah (Liberia)
• Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo)
• Mercy Akide (Nigeria)
• Iván Córdoba (Colombia)
• Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast)
• Khalilou Fadiga (Senegal)
• Formiga (Brazil)
• Jessica Houara (France)
• Maia Jackman (New Zealand)
• Sun Jihai (China PR)
• Blaise Matuidi (France)
• Aya Miyama (Japan)
• Lotta Schelin (Sweden)
• Briana Scurry (United States)
• Mikaël Silvestre (France)
• Juan Pablo Sorín (Argentina)