Ivorian Legend Offers To Help Russia, FIFA Fight Against Racism Ahead Of Next Year’s World Cup

Ivorian legend Yaya Toure has offered his help to Russia and world football’s governing body FIFA in the fight against racism and discrimination.

The Manchester City midfielder, who himself was the subject of racist chants when the citizens played CSKA Moscow in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) in Russia in 2013, wants to help tackle the problem before next summer’s tournament.

Yaya Toure, 34, was speaking during a short film to support a campaign tackling racism and discrimination.

He said:

“We have to see change because people have been talking but nothing has really been taken care of.”

When asked in the film about his hopes for Russia 2018, Toure said:

“If racism situations are going to be involved then it is going to be a big mess.

“Everyone is talking about Russia maybe being a little bit difficult. But I hope that Russia surprises everybody by trying to make something very nice.”

Toure, who speaks Russian very well, added:

“I want to say to Fifa and to the government in Russia as well that if you need me I can help.

“I don’t want to be involved in only talking.

“I want to see action and people be real. These things are very important for the future of football.” he concluded.