MORATTI: "A PROJECT AGAINST RACISM"
Monday, 28 November 2005 15:01:38
MILAN - Massimo Moratti gave a brief interview after his morning's work at the Saras offices in Milan:
Dr Moratti, even if Inter should not be blamed, what do you think about what happened yesterday to Zoro and his reaction?
"This is not a new phenomenon. Once again yesterday there was just the reaction of a player which was courageous and also quite sober and instinctive, but this is fine. So I don't think just one group is to blame. This is not just an Italian habit, and it goes back many years. I think it's something that should be faced by not targeting the clubs directly, especially those who want to distinguish themselves from this kind of thing, but by using a careful and well-studied policy. Unfortunately these problems don't just occur in sport, there are just as instinctive examples in other fields. For now I can just say that Zoro is an intelligent boy who reacted in an intelligent way. Our players also did well to understand the situation immediately, because many of them have the same kind of problem. So we have to protect them a bit more."
What can football do against this kind of phenomenon?
"Football is a wonderful vehicle to transmit positive things. Interventions are not enough to stamp out the problems, you also have to give positive signs and I think football can do a lot. We must elaborate a project and a programme with specialists to help us gradually improve this situation. Everyone has the freedom to express themselves, but what we want is that the people that come to work here (in Italy) are not offended."
What do you think about the fact that the Italian FA has set up an enquiry?
"The Italian FA clearly has to set up an enquiry to find out what happened. But the only new thing is that the player reacted. I think the only thing we can do is set up a very serious project from now on. Not just stamp it out, but also come up with a few new ideas that can help us improve the situation."
Could dialogue with the fans in the Curvas help isolate these individuals who ruin the image of the entire fanbase?
"Yes, it could help. But I don't think this is a phenomenon that is limited to the fans in the Curvas. We must be careful not to isolate the Curvas by pretending to be in another country."
In a similar case the Treviso players came on to the pitch with their faces coloured black as a sign of solidarity for a team-mate who was the object of racist insults. Would it be a strong signal if Inter did the same thing in Serie A?
"Yes, it could be. But it has already been done. I think the whole of football has to move in this direction. Phenomenons of individual courage are very important, but they are just signs. Something more important is needed. You mustn't try to strike someone but instead build something. It's the hardest way, but sooner or later we have to start."
Let's return to the football. Yesterday Alvaro Recoba played a big part in Inter's victory. Will his contract be renewed?
"This is a matter between the club and Recoba. I believe it will happen very soon. As far as Recoba's performance against Messina is concerned, I always say that I haven't discovered anything because I know he can play like this and that he has this talent. He can be a decisive player. For me, everything he does is normal, and it's very pleasant to watch."
cleaver words from Moratti, and I totally agree with him,
And now it seems like we will extend Recoba's contract
