Autism is a condition that, for those who don’t know it, becomes disregarded. And in the world of football, where some disconnects are noticeable, this is a problem to solve.

I read that the Morumbi Stadium has a sensory room to accommodate people with autism. Excellent! Some clubs and/or fans also hold campaigns (Corinthians, Red Bull Bragantino, Vasco da Gama, Santos, Flamengo, among others, have promoted or still promote some actions). See the image:

But we know there is some hypocrisy. Just putting up a banner (for example) to mention that you’re doing something, aimlessly, without concrete inclusion initiatives, is pointless. Ask yourself: how are autistic people treated? How do you reduce the noise? And what about the welcome? Just the banner, to “pose as concerned” and no effort (like the sensory rooms, as mentioned above), becomes empty.

There are other issues: fireworks! Not just the discomfort and harm to autistic people, but to pets as well. The animals go crazy and their eardrums can’t handle it.

A few days ago, at a match, I questioned the barrage of fireworks at the home team’s entrance, and someone pointed out: “They’re not going off inside the stadium; the cluster of rockets was placed outside—and it’s not even a club initiative, but the fans’.” What does that change? Nothing! The noise is the same. And, believe it or not, this happens in municipalities that have drafted laws prohibiting loud fireworks.

There’s no point in saying it’s foolish or that this is oversensitivity. I know there are fierce defenders of this party, but we are in the 21st century, society has evolved and, having compassion for others, is worthwhile (although, empathy is still something lacking…).

Also: I’m not referring to the lights, confetti, or anything else that can be done to celebrate, but simply to the noise.

Autistic people (and their family members, who witness the immediate suffering and anguish) are thankful.

Also, something rarely discussed in football: what about autistic athletes? Could it be that we underestimate the performance of some players, as many of them hide this condition? More than that: if they were to reveal it, would the club help them or dismiss them?

Finally: would we also have autistic referees? In that case, they definitely wouldn’t reveal themselves…