The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has launched ‘Siarad Cymru’, a new video campaign designed to encourage conversations about supporting an inclusive environment when following Cymru’s national teams.
The video series, which will feature discussions led by former Cymru players, will highlight both the positives and challenges of football fandom and the importance of ensuring that Cymru’s “Red Wall” remains a welcoming space for all.
The first episode of Siarad Cymru, released today on the FAW’s RedWall+ streaming service and digital channels, highlights the importance of ensuring a safe space for women at Cymru matches. Former international Joe Ledley joins Cymru fans Mared and Hayley to discuss female fan experiences, the role of male allies, whilst Joe Ledley shares his perspective as a player and father, reflecting on how fans can support each other in creating a safer matchday environment.
Future episodes of Siarad Cymru will explore topics that affect football fandom and wider society, including racism, mental health and LGBTQ+ inclusion. By giving a platform to fans and former players, the campaign seeks to foster an open and honest dialogue about the culture of supporting Cymru and the opportunities to make it more inclusive.
Former Cymru International and FAW Ambassador, Joe Ledley said: “I have had some of the best experiences of my life with our Red Wall and the passion of Cymru fans is second to none. But we have to acknowledge that there are still barriers that make football feel less welcoming for some. It’s important for all fans to come together, look out for each other and make sure that every fan feels safe, included, and proud to be part of this incredible community.”
FAW Senior Safeguarding and Player Welfare Manager, Natalie Chamberlin, said: “Creating a safe space for women in football, both in and out of the stands, is a shared responsibility. Siarad Cymru is about raising awareness, encouraging open conversations, and ensuring football remains welcoming for all. We want to empower fans to challenge inappropriate behaviour safely and foster a positive matchday culture where everyone feels respected and included. It’s also crucial that supporters feel confident in reporting any incidents of discrimination at Cymru matches.”
Fan Engagement Executive, Macsen Jones, added: “Our Red Wall is known for its incredible support, especially since Cymru’s journey at UEFA EURO 2016. But as a governing body, we must continue learning from the lived experiences of our fans to ensure football is a space for everyone. Through Siarad Cymru, we’re encouraging open conversations and allyship to build a more inclusive matchday culture. In recent years, we’ve made significant progress in improving our reporting systems, helping us better identify and address incidents of discrimination. By sharing these stories, we can continue to make positive changes and ensure that every Cymru fan feels safe and supported.”
Cymru fans play a vital role in ensuring that matchdays remain safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all. If you witness or experience discrimination, abuse, or anti-social behaviour at a Cymru game, please report it as soon as possible. The first step is to speak to the nearest steward, who will follow the stadium’s reporting procedures. At Cardiff City Stadium, fans can also scan the QR codes displayed throughout the venue or on the back of seats to submit a report instantly.
For those who may not feel comfortable reporting in the moment or only realise after the match that they should have, incidents can also be reported by emailing ReportIT@faw.cymru or via the FAW’s online reporting form at faw.cymru/reportit. Every report helps the FAW take action to ensure that Cymru matches remain a place where everyone belongs.
