The FEI has partnered with Signify Group to help protect athletes, officials and other key stakeholders at the upcoming FEI World Championships in Aachen from online harassment and abuse.
The partnership reflects a growing recognition that athletes and officials are increasingly exposed to online abuse and threats, particularly during major competitions or following high-profile incidents.
Signify Group, a global leader in online abuse and threat prevention, intelligence and investigations, will offer education, AI monitoring and threat assessments, content moderation, direct message support and investigations during the event, which takes place from Tuesday 11 to Sunday 23 August.
‘Zero-tolerance approach’
“Constructive criticism and respectful debate remain an important part of sport and will continue to be welcomed,” said FEI legal director Mikael Rentsch.
“At the same time, the FEI takes a clear zero-tolerance approach to online abuse, including hate speech, racism, homophobia, graphic or harmful content, fraud, spam and other forms of unacceptable behaviour.
“Our objective is to foster a safe and respectful online environment where athletes, officials and all members of our community can engage with confidence. By monitoring and addressing harmful content, we reinforce that abuse is not tolerated and will be acted upon.
“We also want to ensure that athletes and officials understand how to protect themselves online, how to report concerns, and that appropriate support is available when needed.”
Guidance for athletes and officials
The partnership will also provide athletes and officials with guidance on protecting themselves online, reporting concerns and accessing support.
“Sport should be a place where athletes and officials can perform and engage without fear of abuse,” said Jake Marsh, head of sport at Signify Group.
“Having seen the impact of our monitoring service at the FEI World Cup™ Finals in Fort Worth, we’re pleased to bring an expanded offering to Aachen, working hand-in-hand with the FEI and the German Equestrian Federation.
“The Threat Matrix service identifies risks early, mitigates harmful content in real time, and delivers investigations that hold perpetrators accountable — helping to make this one of the most comprehensively protected Championships to date.”
Image © FEI/Marta Fusetti.
