The Italian Football Association (FA) has implemented a ban on players wearing the number 88 jersey in an effort to combat anti-Semitism in Italian football. The number 88 holds significance as a numerical code for "Heil Hitler," with the letter "H" being the eighth letter of the alphabet. This initiative, developed in collaboration between the Italian government and the Italian football federation (FIGC), includes the establishment of a code of ethics aligned with the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. Additionally, the initiative stipulates that matches should be suspended in the event of anti-Semitic chants or actions, similar to how cases of racism are handled. Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, speaking at the ceremony where the measures were announced, emphasized the need to strongly confront and combat anti-Semitism in all its forms. The signing of the letter of intent is just the initial step in a broader strategy to address and prevent racism and discrimination in sports. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina highlighted the unity within the football community in the fight against anti-Semitism and discrimination.
As a result of the ban, two popular Serie A players, Mario Pasalic of Atalanta and Toma Basic of Lazio, will be required to select new jersey numbers for the upcoming season. Incidents of racism and anti-Semitism have unfortunately occurred in Italian football stadiums in recent years, including instances of fans insulting black players, using derogatory language towards Jewish individuals, and displaying Nazi or fascist symbols. One notable incident took place during a match between Lazio and AS Roma, where a Lazio supporter wore a jersey with the name "Hitlerson" and the number 88, while other fans performed "Roman salutes" associated with fascism. Lazio later took action by permanently banning the three fans from their stadium.
It's worth mentioning that some Italian players, such as renowned goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, have previously worn the number 88. However, after receiving complaints from Italy's Jewish community, Buffon, who claimed to be unaware of the number's significance, agreed to change it.
