Kick It Out founder Lord Herman Ouseley dies aged 79
A statement from Kick It Out said: "Lord Ouseley was a titan in tackling discrimination in football over the 25 years he was chair of Kick It Out."
Thursday 3 October 2024 21:12, UK
Lord Herman Ouseley, the founder of what is now called Kick It Out, has died aged 79.
The anti-discrimination charity announced Lord Ouseley's death on its official X account.
"We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Lord Herman Ouseley after a short illness," Kick It Out's statement read.
"Lord Ouseley was a titan in tackling discrimination in football over the 25 years he was chair of Kick It Out, having founded Let's Kick Racism Out of Football in 1993.
"He was also a fearless advocate for under-represented and disadvantaged communities and will be sorely missed.
"Lord Ouseley's vision to set up Kick It Out was the first true structural change in football to take on a problem that had blighted the game for decades.
"Fans and participants are now more aware of discrimination and how to challenge it, which is a legacy of the tenacity and vigour he showed in ensuring football continued to change.
"We owe him a huge debt of gratitude and vow to continue that legacy for the benefit of future generations. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."
A Sky statement read: "It is with great sadness that we reflect on the passing of Lord Ouseley, founder of Kick It Out, a towering figure in the battle against discrimination in football. His tireless efforts to challenge racism and promote equality have shaped the way football confronts discrimination today, and we at Sky were proud to support his vision. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those affected by this very sad news."
