FIFA has removed 388,000 hateful comments from social media platforms during the initial phase of preparations for the 2026 World Cup. This figure exceeds the total number of hateful comments removed during the entirety of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The increase highlights ongoing concerns regarding discrimination within football and online. FIFA implemented a moderation system to identify and delete abusive content targeting players, officials, and fans. The organization reports utilizing both artificial intelligence and human moderators to address the issue. This proactive approach aims to create a more inclusive and respectful online environment surrounding the tournament. The rising numbers underscore the challenges of combating online abuse despite increased efforts.
