The International Automobile Federation (FIA) does not only regulate motor racing; it is also committed to a crucial fight against online abuse in the world of sport. Through its United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) programme, the FIA offers unique opportunities to students and young professionals to conduct fundamental research on this burning issue.
A scholarship for the future
In this context, Ghada Ashour, a 24-year-old student from Palestine, has recently been selected to join this excellence programme. 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 juggling 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 subject that affects so many athletes today.
A revolutionary programme
Launched in 2023, the UAOA programme allows talents from diverse backgrounds to conduct research on the impact and prevention of online abuse in sport. Thanks to the FIA Foundation, researchers benefit from full funding, as well as guidance from recognised experts. It’s a bit like offering a young chef the chance to work with the best in a Michelin-starred kitchen; the experience promises to be educational 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 issues ranging from human rights to environmental crises. But beware! This outspokenness can also attract a torrent of virulent 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 recognised for its work on online abuse. It is somewhat the HQ of 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 looked into existing regulations and proposes new policies to counter this digital plague.
Each UAOA programme scholar has the opportunity to attend events where they can share their findings with a global audience of policymakers, sports federations, and digital platforms. Suffice it to say that Ghada has not missed the chance to get straight to the point! She is part of a diverse group representing several countries, including Italy, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. These international exchanges promise to add even richer dimensions to her work.
Online abuse: a global issue
It is important 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 of the UAOA programme.” With such momentum, the FIA seems determined to make a difference.
A message of hope
For Ghada Ashour, this scholarship represents much more than a simple 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 sport.” 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 honoured to supervise Ghada in her academic studies.” He emphasises that her work will contribute to a rapidly expanding area of research. Undoubtedly, Ghada and her colleagues could very well transform our understanding of online abuse in sport.
