The above message will be shown on and off the pitch when the 2006 FIFA World Cup kicks off Friday in Munich.

    At each of the 64 games, a banner covering the entire centre circle will be displayed from the stadium's opening until the end of the official pre-match protocol, bearing the tournament slogan " A time to make friends" combined with the anti-racism message "Say no to racism".

    In addition, anti-racism video spots will be aired at all world cup stadiums. All TV rights holders have received five-second mini-spots at no cost for integration in their programs related to the event.

    "We place great importance on respecting ethnic backgrounds," said FIFA President Joseph Blatter.

    "As the most popular sport, football has the biggest chance in the battle against racism, making it clear to the general public that skin colour has no impact whatsoever on our everyday routine, our lives, and our sport."

    FIFA will also dedicate all quarter-finals on June 30 and July 1 to a special activity on the pitch, giving teams the chance to raise their voices against this blight on society in a message to be aired around the globe.

    Recent incidents of racism have emphasized the need for concrete action to unequivocally tackle racism in football.

    The Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) network, FIFA and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have joined forces in a unique initiative called "Football unites" to contribute to a positive atmosphere during the 2006 world cup.

    "FIFA is totally committed to taking steps to eradicate pernicious trends in society and football," said Blatter, "We are convinced that our alliance with FARE and the LOC will be a further keystone in our fight against these shameful activities."

    For the first time in the World Cup history, "Fan Embassies" have been set up in all the twelve host cities.

    The "Embassies", in cooperation with the German Fan Project Co-ordination Centre (KOS), will create opportunities for fans from around the world to meet young Germans and migrants living in Germany, thereby fostering the social integration of migrants and ethnic minorities.

    Stewards and volunteers have been trained on how to identify and handle racism, right-wing extremism and discrimination.

    In addition, FARE will produce and distribute an anti-racism fanzine, in English and German, containing statements by players as well as information on racism in football. Enditem