FIFA have been slammed for appointing Adriana Lima as a global fan ambassador.
The supermodel was given the role in order to “develop, promote and participate in global initiatives” ahead of the Women’s World Cup later this year.
However, the decision has been labelled as “tone deaf” by former Fifa council member and Australia international Moya Dodd.
Dodd believes that it is sending an inappropriate message to players and fans.
She said via The Athletic: “When a girl plays football, the world sees her differently.
“Instead of being complimented on her nice looks or her pretty dress, she is valued for her game-saving tackles and brilliant goal-scoring.
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“She’s admired for what she can do, rather than how she looks, putting her on a more equal footing with her brothers in a way that can alter the whole trajectory of her life’s ambitions.
“In a Fifa World Cup year, that’s the message that should be ringing loud and true around the world.
“Where a supermodel fits into this is truly baffling.”
Dodd was on the committee for the successful World Cup bid to be held in Australia and New Zealand.
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She also referred to comments made by Lima in an interview with GQ in 2006 in which she said abortion was a “crime”.
However, Lima’s publicist, Laurent Boye, has insisted that she has changed her views.
She said in a statement: “We can proudly say that Ms Lima has been promoting a healthy lifestyle for several years and like many people, her position on many LGBTQIA+ and women issues has evolved and she is considered an ally.”
The Women’s World Cup starts on July 20 as New Zealand face Norway in the tournament’s opening match.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
