Despite repeated incidents the football authorities remain in denial about the rise of racism on the terraces.
Beating the problem is not helped when victims of the abuse, such as Juventus player Moise Kean, are not supported by teammates.
The treatment of Kean comes days after several England players targeted with racist chants in the qualifier against Montenegro.
There has also been an increase in abuse in our domestic game.
If football federations and clubs fail to protect black players they will only give licence to bigots on the terraces here and abroad.
Penalties could include hefty fines, forcing clubs to play behind closed doors and deducting points.
Statements of intent and platitudes are not enough.
The governing bodies need to demonstrate they understand the scale of the problem and have a clear plan to deal with it.
It should not be left to a few brave players such as Raheem Sterling to call out the hatred and intolerance.
Online danger
Many parents will share Prince Harry ’s worries about the impact of social media.
The dad-to-be may not be exaggerating when he claims online gaming can be more addictive than drugs and alcohol.
A lack of regulation has created a Wild West on the internet where firms such as Instagram let teens view images of self harm and young people get addicted to games such as Fortnite.
It is not always easy for parents to police children’s access to this new world. Which is why tech giants can’t duck their responsibility.
With the mental wellbeing and health of children at stake they must stop putting quick profits before their social duty.
Such dignity
Families of the Hillsborough dead have shown great fortitude and forbearance in the 30 years since the disaster.
Those qualities were on display yesterday when they learned the jury had failed to reach a verdict in the trial of David Duckenfield.
One day they will finally get closure.
