The International Organization for Migration has partnered with Uruguayan football club Club Atlético Peñarol to combat discrimination during the Copa Libertadores.
The collaboration, announced ahead of the tournament’s group stage matches, aims to promote inclusion and respect both on and off the pitch. As part of the initiative, joint activities will be held during Peñarol’s home fixtures, featuring awareness campaigns and educational outreach targeting fans and local communities.
Peñarol, one of Uruguay’s most storied clubs with a rich history in South American football, will display special banners and messaging at Estadio Campeón del Cerro in Montevideo to highlight the importance of diversity in sport. The club’s participation underscores its ongoing commitment to social responsibility and using its platform to drive positive change.
The Copa Libertadores, CONMEBOL’s premier club competition, draws teams from across Latin America and serves as a major stage for promoting values such as unity, fair play, and cultural exchange. By aligning with Peñarol, the IOM seeks to leverage the tournament’s wide reach to amplify messages against racism, xenophobia, and all forms of discrimination.
Officials from both organizations emphasized that the partnership reflects a shared belief in sport’s power to foster social cohesion. Activities will include player involvement, social media outreach, and collaboration with local youth groups to reinforce messages of respect and equality.
Peñarol’s campaign in the current Copa Libertadores began with a home match against Brazilian side Palmeiras on April 3, 2024, where the club debuted its joint messaging with the IOM during pre-match ceremonies. The initiative will continue throughout the team’s participation in the tournament.
