Could the boost to women’s football mean more online abuse?

The Women's Superleague signed an agreement with Sky and the BBC earlier this year, making it the largest commercial agreement in women's football.
Anita Asante plays for Aston Villa and says that the deal offers a great opportunity to expand the sport.

She is concerned that the increased exposure to players and the increase in their profile could lead to more online abuse, especially towards non-white players.

Asante, who was subject to racist abuse in hostile crowds and via social media, worries about whether those who haven't experienced it before will be able to handle the abuse.

According to a report from the Professional Footballers Association, there was a 48% increase of un-moderated racist online abuse during the second half 2020/21 season.

Warning: This article contains language that could offend

Listen to the File on 4 program 'Tackling online abuse of football' here