Chinese footballers may have to remove their tattoos, or face being kicked out by their country team.
In 2018, when some players had to hide their tattoos in order to play, the General Administration of Sport (GAS), has gone one step further.
GAS recently outlawed tattoos and asked that any players with tattoos already in place to be removed to “set an example” for Chinese society.
According to the GAS statement, ‘National team and U23 athletes cannot have new tattoos. Those with tattoos should be removed by themselves.
“If the team has agreed to a special circumstance, players must cover tattoos during matches and training.
China was not the first to be concerned about its players’ appearance. A 2018 women’s soccer match was aborted after dyed-haired players complained.
China’s General Administration of Sport has put a ban on footballers getting new tattoos
GAS also requested that existing inks are removed to comply with a fresh clean-up directive
Athletes can’t dye or grow long hair. [for boys]The rules of Fujian Provincial Department of Education state that no one should wear strange hairstyles or use any accessories. This was reported at the time by South China Morning Post.
“Otherwise, they’ll be disqualified.
In China, tattoos were treated with contempt. However, they are becoming more popular among younger adults and footballers.
Zhang Linpeng, Guangzhou FC’s player is well-known for his large ink.
However, new rules are likely to make it difficult for young players to get tattoos. This could lead to expulsion from national team.
Tattoos have become more mainstream in China but the new rules present problems to many, such as Zhang Linpeng of Guangzhou FC (pictured)
Except for players who can demonstrate special circumstances, they are expected to get tattoos taken off.
Tape has been used to cover visible tattoos on players in the national team.
GAS continued by stating that China’s national football teams should, across all age levels, organise “ideological and politically-education activities” that will’strengthen patriotism education of their players.
The statement is headed ‘Suggestions for strengthening the management of football players’.
The Chinese FA is expected to be responsible for setting the disciplinary standards that will govern future call-ups of national teams.