Feyenoord switches off social hate

You are not a Feyenoorder alone. You are one together. With heart and soul. For more than a century, Feyenoord have brought people together, in Rotterdam and far beyond. That sense of connection is not limited to De Kuip, it also applies online.

Unfortunately, hateful comments on social media have become increasingly common in recent years, both in sport and beyond. Feyenoord are also confronted with this issue, with unacceptable and hurtful comments regularly appearing on the club’s own channels directed at players and staff. This has prompted the club to set clearer boundaries on what does and does not belong within the online Feyenoord community.

Expressions of hate, racism, discrimination, intimidation and threats, among other things, on Feyenoord’s online club channels will now be switched off. By hiding such hateful messages, the club hope to raise awareness and encourage positive support. Feyenoord are doing this with the help of an AI tool, following the example of many clubs from, among others, the Premier League and the KNVB.

This approach does not mean there is no longer room for criticism or emotion, but a clear line will be drawn when it comes to online hate.

The Social Code of Conduct consists of rules of behaviour for everyone taking part in the online conversation surrounding the club. Just as rules of conduct apply to visitors at matches and events, Feyenoord are also making clear what we can expect from one another in the digital environment. Differences of opinion are part of football, but respect for one another always comes first.

With the introduction of the Social Code of Conduct, Feyenoord are taking another step towards creating a positive and safe online environment. By combining clear rules of behaviour with active moderation, together we are building a digital community in which everyone feels welcome. Because only together are we one Feyenoord.