The International Automobile Federation (FIA) is not only responsible for regulating motorsport, but it is also engaged in a crucial fight against online abuse in the world of sports. Through its United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) program, the FIA provides unique opportunities for students and young professionals to conduct fundamental research on this pressing issue.
A Scholarship for the Future
In this context, Ghada Ashour, a 24-year-old student from Palestine, was recently selected to join this excellence program. After studying remotely from Gaza, she secured her place at Dublin City University thanks to her passion for social media and her desire to advance the understanding of online abuse. Just imagine: she spends her evenings navigating between her studies and the tensions of her environment, and now she finds herself at the heart of a renowned institution, ready to make her voice heard on a topic that affects so many athletes today.
A Revolutionary Program
Launched in 2023, the UAOA program allows talents from diverse backgrounds to conduct research on the impact and prevention of online abuse in sports. Thanks to the FIA Foundation, researchers benefit from full funding, as well as guidance from recognized experts. It’s a bit like giving a young chef the chance to work with the best in a Michelin-starred kitchen; the experience promises to be both formative and inspiring.
Ghada’s work will focus on the relationship between athlete activism and online abuse. Nowadays, athletes are no longer hesitant to express their opinions on sensitive topics ranging from human rights to environmental crises. But beware! This outspokenness can also attract a torrent of vicious criticism. Data shows that online harassment can have disastrous consequences on athletes’ careers and mental health. Hence the importance of research like Ghada’s.
Dublin City University: A Hub of Excellence
Dublin City University is recognized for its work on online abuse. It is somewhat the headquarters for specialists in the field. Researchers study the prevalence of abuse, its forms, and the profiles of victims, while developing preventive strategies. The institution has also examined existing regulations and proposes new policies to counter this digital scourge.
Each UAOA program scholar has the opportunity to attend events where they can share their findings with a global audience of policymakers, sports federations, and digital platforms. It goes without saying that Ghada has not missed the chance to dive right into the heart of the matter! She is part of a diverse group representing several countries, including Italy, South Africa, the UK, and Mexico. These international exchanges promise to add even richer dimensions to her work.
Online Abuse: A Global Issue
It is essential to understand that online abuse affects the entire sports ecosystem: athletes, volunteers, officials, journalists, and even fans. According to the UAOA 2025 report, 75% of sports federations still report threats against competitors and their families. A true digital storm that could discourage even the most resilient among them. The figures are alarming: 90% of those involved believe that such abuse could drive athletes away from their discipline.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA and founder of the UAOA, states: “The FIA is committed to expanding opportunities worldwide while inspiring and developing the next generation. Education is at the heart of this mission, and I am delighted to welcome Ghada as the latest student in the UAOA program.” With such momentum, the FIA seems determined to make a difference.
A Message of Hope
For Ghada Ashour, this scholarship represents much more than just an academic opportunity: “It’s a dream come true!” she says. Her enthusiasm is palpable as she prepares to dive into this research on a subject that touches so many lives every day. She does not hesitate to assert: “I am eager to advance the field of research on online abuse in sports.” It is rare to encounter such passion in a student, especially when it comes to such a delicate subject.
Dr. Gary Sinclair, head of the International Network on Online Harms in Sport at DCU, also expresses his support: “I am honored to supervise Ghada in her academic studies.” He emphasizes that her work will contribute to a rapidly expanding research area. Surely, Ghada and her colleagues could transform our understanding of online abuse in sports.
