Malta FA holds Stop the Hate Convention at the Centenary Stadium

The Malta Football Association’s Football Social Responsibility (FSR) Department recently held the Stop the Hate Convention at the Centenary Hall on Saturday 25 April as part of its inclusive programmes within the UEFA HatTrick programme for 2025/26.

The Stop the Hate campaign was launched earlier this season following an agreement between the Malta Football Association and the Victim Support Agency (VSA). Throughout the campaign, visibility was given to the VSA to raise awareness of the support services available and the rights of victims.

This year, 68 clubs will benefit from the initiative, with each receiving €1,000 in recognition of their collaboration with the Malta FA. The funds were distributed during the convention. During the season, clubs competing in Malta FA competitions wore captains’ armbands carrying the Stop the Hate message. The Centenary Stadium also displayed perimeter advertising promoting the campaign and the 116 006 National Victim Support line.

The event was introduced by Byron Camilleri, and also addressed by Malta FA Senior Vice President Dr Matthew Paris and VSA Chief Executive Officer Brian Farrugia.

Dr Paris remarked that the convention was the culmination of season-long initiatives tackling hate speech, while Mr Farrugia stressed that hate-related language and gestures can cause lasting trauma. Both underlined the importance of ensuring football remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, showing the role the MFA plays in fighting against hate on and off the pitch.

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Photo source: Malta Football Association