You’re probably in the minority if you’re a professional footballer who doesn’t have a tattoo. Chinese authorities, on the other hand, have recently made it illegal for footballers to acquire tattoos. They’ve also advised people who have already been tattooed to cover up or erase their tattoos in order to provide a “positive example for society.” In recent years, a number of high-profile Chinese players, including experienced international defender Zhang Linpeng, have had tattoos. When playing for his club, Guangzhou FC, and the national team, he is required to cover them up.
In a statement, China’s General Administration of Sport (GAS) has issued certain instructions. The Chinese Football Association will establish disciplinary requirements, according to GAS’s “Suggestions for upgrading the management of football players.” According to Sky Sports, it stated, “National teams at all levels will carefully fulfill the relevant requirements of the management measures… (and) thoroughly demonstrate the positive spirit of Chinese football players and set a good example for society.”
“New tattoos are strictly prohibited for the national team and U23 national team athletes, and those who currently have tattoos are urged to remove them themselves.” “Unless the team has agreed to extraordinary conditions, (players) must cover up their tattoos during training and competitions.” It went on to say that recruiting players with tattoos was “strictly prohibited” for teams at the U20 level and below. The Chinese Football Association will establish disciplinary requirements, according to GAS’s “Suggestions for upgrading the management of football players.”
According to Sky Sports, it stated, “National teams at all levels will carefully fulfill the relevant requirements of the management measures… (and) thoroughly demonstrate the positive spirit of Chinese football players and set a good example for society.” “New tattoos are strictly prohibited for the national team and U23 national team athletes, and those who currently have tattoos are urged to remove them themselves.” “Unless the team has agreed to extraordinary conditions, (players) must cover up their tattoos during training and competitions.” It went on to say that recruiting players with tattoos was “strictly prohibited” for teams at the U20 level and below.
So all the football geeks & pundits out there, let us know your views over this & stay tuned to IWMBuzz.com.