The Italian soccer federation issued a decree stating that all affiliated clubs must cease to use the number 88 on their jerseys effective immediately. The No. 88 is a numerical code for “Heil Hitler”, the call sign to the World War II Nazi leader.
In March, a Lazio “fan” sported the 88 shirt with the name “Hitlerson” on the back, the supporter was banned for life of ever attending a Lazio match.
The Italian government and soccer federation have coordinated the stance with the addition of the code of ethics in accordance with the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.
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No more number 88 kits in Italy
The removal of the kit and actions by the Italian soccer federation to suspend games if racist chants are used are just some of the measures to clean up Italian soccer.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated that the actions are “an adequate and efficient response to intolerable prejudice that too often arises in our stadiums.”
Kelvin Loyola is a seasoned content writer and journalist at Bolavip, boasting over 15 years of experience in sports journalism and marketing. He has covered a wide array of sports including the USMNT, MLS, Premier League, LaLiga, Serie A, Ligue 1, and Liga MX, as well as the NBA, MLB, NHL, and various entertainment topics. Prior to his journalism and marketing career, Kelvin worked in post-production, contributing to numerous movie, television, and digital projects. He also brings expertise in project management, social media, and web development. A graduate of Queens College with a degree in Media Studies, Kelvin is bilingual, fluent in both English and Spanish. His passions extend beyond his career to include soccer, marketing, photography, surfing, and pop culture, particularly comics.
