News 17 April 2026 IOM Joins Peñarol on the Pitch to Tackle Discrimination at Copa Libertadores

Montevideo, 16 April 2026 - The Club Atlético Peñarol and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) strengthened their strategic partnership through a joint initiative during a CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores match held last night at the Estadio Campeón del Siglo in Montevideo, Uruguay.

As a visible symbol of their shared commitment to promoting respect and preventing discrimination, the IOM logo appeared on Peñarol's jersey during the match, as part of CONMEBOL's campaign "El respeto es titular" ("Respect is a starter").

Ignacio Ruglio, President of Club Atlético Peñarol, highlighted the significance of the initiative: "Peñarol was born among workers who came from afar to build something new. That spirit defines us, and today we carry it with pride on our jersey."

Founded in 1891 by English, German and Uruguayan railway workers, Peñarol's history is rooted in migration. With five Copa Libertadores titles and more than a century of presence in South American football, the club represents a longstanding example of how people from different backgrounds can come together around a common purpose.

In February 2024, this historical connection was formally recognized when Peñarol became the first sports institution in the world to be designated as an IOM Goodwill Ambassador. This builds on years of collaboration, including the establishment of a Migrant Reference and Orientation Centre at the Palacio Peñarol, operated jointly with Montevideo's Municipality B, where newly arrived migrants receive information, guidance and support.

"Millions of people move around the world in search of opportunity. Respect for different cultures and non-discrimination are essential conditions for the integration of migrants and host communities," said Diego Beltrand, IOM Regional Director (a.i.) for Latin America and the Caribbean. "Football has a unique potential to promote inclusion and mutual respect, reaching millions of people across the region and beyond."

In a region where millions of people cross borders each year in search of safety, opportunities and a better future, CONMEBOL's campaign carried a message that extended beyond the pitch. By joining this initiative, Peñarol and IOM used one of the most visible platforms in South American football to reinforce a shared message: every person, regardless of their origin, has the right to be treated with dignity.

For more information, please visit IOM's Media Centre.