St Johnstone Football Club is pleased to once again show its support for Show Racism the Red Card – the UK’s leading anti-racism education charity – as part of this year’s national campaign.
Across Scottish football, clubs are uniting this weekend to reaffirm a shared commitment to promoting equality, inclusion and respect at every level of the game.
At this weekend’s games, our players, management teams and staff will take part in the campaign by holding up red cards ahead of kick-off to demonstrate that there is no place for racism or discrimination in football or in society.
St Johnstone FC recognises the importance of using our platform to help educate, raise awareness and celebrate the diversity that strengthens both our club and our community.
On Friday, CEO Fran Smith, first team players, managers and staff – from both our men’s and women’s squads – as well as local councillors, politicians and representatives from Saints in the Community, joined together to spread the message further.
CEO Fran Smith said: “It is hugely important that, as a club, we use our profile to increase awareness and help to tackle the issue of racism not just in the game but in society as a whole.
“At St Johnstone and the club’s charitable arm, Saints in the Community, we work closely with the local community to help tackle racism. Saints in the Community deliver an education programme throughout all schools in Perth and Kinross and it is an initiative we are all proud of here at McDiarmid Park.
“Show Racism the Red Card also do amazing work in communities throughout Scotland and this weekend it will be great to see all the SPFL clubs coming together in a bid to tackle racism and discrimination.
“Everyone at the club fully supports Show Racism the Red Card.”
Billy Singh, campaign manager from Show Racism the Red Card in Scotland, said: “Football has always been more than a game. It brings people together across communities, cities, and nations. In Scotland, our clubs and our supporters have a proud tradition of passion, loyalty, and pride. But football also has a responsibility: to stand firmly against racism and discrimination, both on and off the pitch.
“Recent events show that prejudice and division remain present in society. When voices seek to divide us, football must provide the opposite example – one of unity, respect, and solidarity. The message from our game should be clear: there is no place for racism in our stadiums, in our communities, or in our country.
“Show Racism the Red Card exists because education and action are vital. Campaigns like ours provide young people and adults with the tools to recognise racism, challenge it, and replace it with understanding. Football clubs are uniquely placed to spread this message, reaching thousands every week through matches, community programmes, and role models on the pitch.
“We are asking supporters not only to reject racist language and behaviour, but to be active anti-racists. That means speaking out when something is wrong, supporting those targeted by abuse, and showing that the true spirit of football is inclusive. Silence allows prejudice to grow; action and solidarity stop it in its tracks.
“Scottish football is enriched by players and coaches from across the world and fans cheer those players. This diversity is not a threat – it is one of the game’s greatest strengths. The range of nationalities on the pitch reflects the reality of modern Scotland: a nation shaped by contributions from people of many backgrounds.
“When we stand together in our stadiums, we show what community really means. “Together We Are Stronger” is more than a slogan – it is a truth that runs through football. Racism weakens us all, but unity makes us powerful.
“So this matchday, and every day, let’s make sure that our game is welcoming for everyone. Raise your voice, challenge racism, and show that football fans in Scotland are united.”
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