Jump to content

Association football and politics

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Association football and politics are connected in club identities, clashes, and footballers who choose a career in politics. Association football has played a role in maintaining the differences which give each European country a distinct identity, while strengthening the bonds that bind Europe together.[1] According to Macon Benoit, European football underwent a massive transformation during the World War II era (1933–45). The game's sharp rise in popularity came at a time of high political intensity, leading to football's politicization. Benoit writes that during this period, European football began to embody four main characteristics: 1) an agent of international relations, in the sense that the foreign policies of European nations became articulated in matches; 2) a source of political propaganda, as football was used to build national pride and establish the legitimacy of political movements; 3) a tool for social pacification; football gave people a place to focus their energy that was not political, and 4) an avenue for protest; mass gatherings at matches gave spectators a forum for the expression of identity and political sentiments.[2] European football stadiums have assumed other roles as places of refuge and sites of political uprisings and terrorist attacks. As European politics and relations have changed, football has remained a global means of political expression.[3]

Three former footballers have led their countries: Ahmed Ben Bella, George Weah, and Kaj Leo Johannesen. Ben Bella played briefly for Marseille during the mid-1940s before leading Algeria in the aftermath of its war of independence, first as prime minister and then as president. Weah, who played football for 18 years in Africa and Europe, was an unsuccessful candidate for the Liberian presidency in 2005 before his election in 2017.[4] Johannesen, who played in goal four times for the Faroe Islands national football team during the 1990s, became prime minister of the Faroe Islands in 2008. Other footballers who have sought high political office include Albert Guðmundsson (who finished third in the 1980 Icelandic presidential election) and Oleg Malyshkin, who finished fifth in the 2004 Russian presidential elections.[citation needed]

Clubs and political identity

[edit]

Some clubs have a fan base which is religious, right- or left-wing, nationalist, unionist, or autonomist.

England

[edit]

Although many clubs do not have a fixed political identity, some clubs have clear leanings. According to YouGov statistics, supporters of Sunderland lean left[5] and often sing "The Red Flag" during marches.[6][5] The hooligan firm Seaburn Casuals, on the other hand, is known for its far-right associations. When 26 Seaburn Casuals hooligans were arrested in a police raid before the 1998 FIFA World Cup, some were found to be involved with neo-Nazi groups such as Combat 18.[7] In contrast, according to YouGov statistics, supporters of Crystal Palace and West Ham lean right, with the latter being one of the most conservative clubs in the Premier League.[5]

Clubs such as Chelsea[8] and Millwall[9] are known to have many right-wing and far-right fans, and fans have chanted racist chants at games before. Despite Millwall having many right-wing fans, the club has a long-standing working-class culture,[10] however, working-class urban voters in the United Kingdom (along with several other countries) are traditionally left-leaning and tend to support social democracy and trade unionism.

Some non-league clubs have been adopted by fans that are vocally opposed to racism, homophobia and other forms of discrimination. Examples include Clapton[11] and Dulwich Hamlet.[12][13] A breakaway from Clapton FC, named Clapton Community, have based their away shirt on the flag of the Spanish Second Republic,[14][15] supported the October 2020 Polish protests,[16][17] and reached out to refugees and LGBT people to feel welcome at football.[18]

Germany

[edit]

Perhaps one of the most socially progressive football fans in the world are the fans of Hamburg-based club St. Pauli. Most St. Pauli supporters lean to the left of the political spectrum and describe themselves as anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-fascist and pro-LGBT rights.[19] St. Pauli fans have been known for taking vocal, prominent stances on social and political issues that affect minorities, oppressed peoples, and the working class. Due to the war in Gaza, many St. Pauli supporters have openly stood in solidarity with Palestine, as well as condemn what they consider Israeli atrocities. Others have remained neutral (criticising Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas), additionally few actively support Israel.[20]

In recent times, Bayern Munich fans have been described as left-leaning, while their Der Klassiker rivals Borussia Dortmund have historically been right-leaning.[21]

Non-league side Chemnitzer FC has an active right-wing and far-right supporter group, who are reportedly quite influential. In contrast, supporters of non-league side SV Babelsberg 03 are traditionally left-leaning.[21]

Indonesia

[edit]

In Indonesia, one of the most successful clubs in Indonesian football Persipura Jayapura is considered to represent Papuan identity and it could be said to be one of the symbols of the campaign and struggle for Papuan separatism.[22] In several matches, the flag of the Republic of West Papua, which is considered separatist by the Indonesian government, was flown several times.[23] In fact, one of the players, Edward Junior Wilson, who comes from Liberia, was involved in a fight with the Indonesian police because he thought he was flying the West Papua flag. This happened in the deciding match 2016 Indonesia Soccer Championship A at Mandala Stadium, Jayapura on 18 December 2016. At that time, Persipura, who managed to become champion after beating PSM Makassar 4–2, celebrated their victory after the match. Edward also raised the national flag of Liberia, However, because it was raining at the time, the police mistook the flag he was flying and there was a flag-pulling action with him. After the incident, the police revealed the misunderstanding that had occurred. This incident also sparked a riot between fans and police at the stadium.[24] For some Acehnese, Persiraja Banda Aceh is also considered to represent their Acehnese identity and the Free Aceh Movement.[25] In other cases, Persib Bandung is considered to represent the identity of Sundanese and West Java, especially the Priangan area and by some people it has been considered as their Sundanese culture.[26] By critical people, Persib is analogous to a symbol of resistance to Indonesian centrism which focuses on Jakarta (this is also related to its rivalry with Persija Jakarta).[27][28] Persib is also considered "the national team of Bandung people", in fact the level of attendance at the stadium for Persib is higher than for the Indonesia national team when they play in Bandung.[29][30] Low audience attendance for the Indonesian national team in Bandung this is also the background by sweeping actions and abuse carried out by rival supporters, The Jakmania against Bobotoh (the name for Persib supporters) when the Indonesian national team played in Jakarta, one of them was the attack on the capo of the Indonesian national team, who was also a Bobotoh on 28 October 2018 at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium by 30–50 The Jakmania members.[31] In 2022, a video showed the removal of a banner supporting the Indonesian national team at Sidolig Stadium in Bandung. In the video, the man who carried out the takedown said to the video viewer in Sundanese and English "Eweuh timnas, this is Persib!" ("There is no national team, this is Persib!"). This incident occurred during Indonesian national team training at the stadium.[32]

Israel

[edit]

The Israeli club Beitar Jerusalem has far-right, fascist, zionist and racist associations. Jewish fans of Beitar have engaged in anti-Arab and anti-Muslim racist behavior. Jewish fans have supported restricting Arabs and Muslims from joining the club. Arab and Muslim players from other clubs have often experienced racist and other offensive behavior by Jewish supporters. It remains the only Israeli Premier League club never to have had an Arab player (due to opposition by right-wing, racist fans). Some of Beitar’s owners said they were ready to sign a worthy Arab player, but backed down when Jewish fans sent threats.[33] When two Russian Muslims were signed in 2013, fans violently rioted over the decision. Beitar’s supporter group, La Familia, has been condemned for its further extremism. The controversial group has been penalized a number of times for anti-Arab slurs in and outside the stadium. La Familia has an extensive Mizrahi Jewish identity, and some right-wing Israeli politicians have aligned themselves with the group. The club has been condemned for not doing enough to address these issues.[34][35][36] Beitar’s chief rival is Hapoel Tel Aviv, known for its left-wing leanings, and politics is the main impetus for their rivalry. Fans of the clubs often clash violently.[37][33][38][39]

Italy

[edit]

In Italy, the Derby della Capitale in Rome is often characterized by political tension. Some of Lazio's ultras used swastikas and fascist symbols on their banners, and they have engaged in racist behavior during the derbies. At a derby during the 1998–99 season, some Laziali unfurled a 50-meter banner which read, "Auschwitz is your town, the ovens are your houses". Black players from A.S. Roma have often experienced racist and other offensive behavior.[40] During the late 1970s, Lazio developed a strong rivalry with Pescara Calcio.[41] The far-right Lazio ultras consider A.S. Livorno Calcio and Atalanta, both with strong left-wing leanings, to be among their ideological antagonists. Livorno also clashes with opposing right-wing supporter groups, especially those of Inter Milan and Verona.[42][43] Lazio player Paolo Di Canio and his Livorno counterpart, Cristiano Lucarelli, have given controversial, ideological salutes to fans during matches, with Di Canio giving a Roman salute and Lucarelli giving a raised fist.

Northern Ireland and Scotland

[edit]

One of the largest and oldest football rivalries is the Old Firm rivalry between the Scottish clubs Celtic and Rangers. The competition between the two clubs is rooted in more than a sporting rivalry;[44] it has as much to do with Northern Ireland as Scotland, as seen in the flags, cultural symbols, and emblems of both clubs.[45] It was infused with a series of complex disputes centred on religion (Catholic and Protestant), Northern Ireland-related politics (loyalism and republicanism), national identity (British or Irish-Scots), or social ideology (conservatism and socialism).[46][47] Although most Rangers and Celtic supporters are not actively sectarian, serious incidents sometimes occur and the actions of a minority dominate the headlines.[48][45] The Old Firm rivalry fueled many assaults on Derby days, and some deaths have been directly related to the aftermath of Old Firm matches.[49] An activist group which monitors sectarian activity in Glasgow has reported that on Old Firm weekends, violent attacks increase nine-fold above normal levels.[50] An increase in domestic abuse can also be attributed to Old Firm matches.[51]

Spain

[edit]
Two players vying for the ball
An El Clásico match

Many of the Spanish football rivalries outside the local derbies involve politics (ideological or geographical).[52] The term morbo (roughly translating as morbid fascination and antagonism)[53] has been used[54][55] to describe attitudes to the complex network of identities and relationships between Spanish clubs.[53] An informal system of alliances and enmities exists across the nation's hooligan groups, based on their political allegiance;[56] the most prominent may be between Atlético Madrid's right-wing followers and the left-wing group attached to Sevilla.[57] Sevilla is locally perceived as the middle-class club in the Seville derby, in contrast to working-class Real Betis.[58] The largest ultras groups who follow Real Madrid and Barcelona (the two clubs in Spain's most famous rivalry, El Clásico) are right-wing. The hostility between them springs from their profiles as the symbolic representatives of Castile and Catalonia,[59][60] which escalated under the Madrid-based ruling fascist regime of Francisco Franco during the mid-20th century and continued into the 21st, with many Barcelona supporters visibly sympathetic to the Catalan independence movement. As a result, the team is met with anger by other clubs' fans when they visit.[61] Barcelona's claimed position as the persecuted team in their relationship with Madrid contrasts with their city rivalry with Espanyol, who are aligned towards Spanish unionism and whose owners see Barça as the club unfairly favored by Catalonian lawmakers.[62] Real Madrid's rivalry with Athletic Bilbao, a team in the Basque region, involves differences in culture and ideology; its competitive element has diminished in an era of global exposure and recruitment, however, due to Athletic's policy of using local players to emphasize pride in their origins.[63][64][65]

International level

[edit]

A number of matches have ended in disputes and skirmishes.

El Salvador and Honduras

[edit]
Main articles: El Salvador–Honduras football rivalry and Football War

The most infamous combination of politics and sport was the Football War between El Salvador and Honduras. Although the build-up to the war involved socioeconomic issues such as immigration and land reform, its impetus was hostility by rioters during the second North American qualifying round for the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Disturbances broke out during the first game in Tegucigalpa, and the second leg saw the situation worsen in San Salvador. Honduran fans were roughed up, the Honduran flag and national anthem were insulted, and the emotions of both nations ran high. In retaliation, violence against Salvadoran residents in Honduras (including several vice-consuls) increased. An unknown number of Salvadorans were killed or injured, and tens of thousands began to flee the country. The press of both countries contributed to a climate of near-hysteria and, on June 27, 1969, an attack against Honduras. The Organization of American States negotiated a cease-fire which took effect on July 20, with Salvadoran troops withdrawn in early August.[66]

Support for Palestine and international boycott of Israel

[edit]
Main articles: Israel national football team § Muslim and Arab countries boycotting Israel, and Mediterranean Games § Participating countries

Israel was one of the founding members of the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) after it became independent in 1948; before then, it played as Mandatory Palestine/Eretz Israel.[67][68] After Israel's tense 0–1 loss to Iran in the final of the 1974 Asian Games in Iran,[69] Kuwait and many other countries[70] refused to play them. Expelled from the confederation, Israel spent several years trying to qualify for the OFC (Oceania), before eventually joining UEFA (Europe) officially.[71]

Falkland Islands

[edit]
Main article: Argentina v England (1986 FIFA World Cup)

In the 1986 Mexico World Cup, after the Falklands War between Argentina and the United Kingdom, Argentina and England met in the quarter-finals and Diego Maradona scored both goals in a 2–1 victory for the South Americans. Maradona attributed his first goal to the hand of God; his second goal has been called the Goal of the Century, and he said that the win was revenge for Argentina's defeat in the Falklands.[72]

Iran and America

[edit]
Main article: United States v Iran (1998 FIFA World Cup)

At the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, Iran recorded their first World Cup victory in the second game; they defeated America 2–1, with Hamid Estili and Mehdi Mahdavikia scoring the Iranian goals. Although tension was expected because of each country's political stance, both sides presented one another with gifts and flowers and stood together for a photograph before the match.[73]

Indonesia

[edit]
See also: Indonesia–Malaysia football rivalry, 1958 FIFA World Cup qualification, 1962 Asian Games, and 2021 FIFA U-20 World Cup

Since the beginning of Indonesia's independence, football has been used as a political campaign tool by the Orde Lama [id] government.[74] Indonesia at that time was known for its political alignment with the Soviet Union and China. Various actions with political nuances often occur in Indonesian football, starting from refusing to compete with the Israeli national team in the 1958 FIFA World Cup qualification because of his solidarity with Palestine and do not want to violate the country's basic constitution.[75] To the point of not recognizing Taiwan, and prohibiting it from participating in the 1962 Asian Games together with Israel being banned. Indonesia was also involved in military confrontation with Malaysia from 1963–1966 which stemmed from opposition to the establishment of the Federation of Malaya which will incorporate Sabah and Sarawak into its parts because they are considered puppet states and remnants of British imperialism in Southeast Asia. Then this hostility also spread to football with matches always running hotly and there is almost always a commotion between players and supporters when the two teams compete. Recently, the Indonesian government also rejected the Israeli U-20 national team who will play in the 2021 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Indonesia after qualifying.[76] The Governor of Central Java, Ganjar Pranowo and Governor of Bali, I Wayan Koster officially announced their rejection. Indonesia's status as host was revoked by FIFA after this incident.[74]

Japan and China

[edit]

The 2004 AFC Asian Cup in China made headlines due to events during the final between China and Japan, apparently because of relations between the countries dating back to the World War II era which included the Nanjing Massacre.[77] As the Japanese national anthem was played, home fans expressed anti-Japanese sentiment by drowning out the anthem with chants. Chinese fans booed the players, visiting fans, and officials as Japan defeated China 3–1, rioting after the match outside the Beijing Workers' Stadium.

Iraq

[edit]

Despite ethnic dilemmas in their country, Iraq won the 2007 AFC Asian Cup. After a previous-round win, Iraqi military spokesman Qassim Moussawi said that they wanted to stop "terrorists, Sunni extremists, and criminals from targeting the joy of the people."[78][79][80] Iraqi president Jalal Talabani said that it was disappointing that they could not celebrate at home with the fans.[81][82] Many, however, hailed the victory as a show of unity;[83] according to Iraq's coach, Jorvan Vieira, "This is not just about football...this is more important than that...This has brought great happiness to the whole country. This is not about a team, this is about human beings."[84] Saudi coach Hélio dos Anjos said, "Iraq deserved to win today...They were very motivated and we knew the whole world was supporting this team."[84]

Armenia and Turkey

[edit]

On 6 September 2008, Armenia and Turkey again faced each other in a 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification match in Yerevan. Turkish president Abdullah Gül was invited to watch the match, and he and his Armenian counterpart Serzh Sargsyan sat together behind bullet-proof glass. The Turkish national anthem was almost drowned out by booing from 35,000 Armenian fans, however, indicating continued mistrust between the countries. However, the gesture "between the presidents showed that they believed 'football diplomacy' had achieved the most important result."[This quote needs a citation] This was a first for the countries, which have been divided after the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire.[85][86][87][88]

France and Ireland

[edit]
Main article: 2009 Republic of Ireland v France football matches

In 2009, France and the Republic of Ireland met in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification play-off; the winner of the two-legged tie progressed to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. After a 1–1 aggregate draw, the match went into extra time at France's National Stadium. The winning goal came from France's William Gallas, but Thierry Henry twice handled the ball before passing to Gallas to score. It was called a "hand of Frog" goal, referring to Diego Maradona's "hand of God" goal in the 1986 World Cup match between Argentina and England. It then became an international incident with Irish Taoiseach Brian Cowen demanding a replay and the French President telling him to "stick to politics".[89]

Iran and the UAE

[edit]

In 2010, relations between Iran and the United Arab Emirates took a turn for the worse when the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran sent a letter to the Asian Football Confederation complaining about the misuse of the Persian Gulf name. "The move was made after the UAE misrepresented the name Persian Gulf during a match between Iran's Sepahan and the UAE's Al Ain. The Emirate television displayed various banners showing a fictitious name for the Persian Gulf during the match between Iran's Sepahan and the UAE's Al Ain. In addition to comments from the UAE comparing the three disputed islands (Greater and Lesser Tunbs and Abu Musa, held by Iran) to the occupation of Palestine, calls were made to downgrade ties.[90] This also comes after the Islamic Solidarity Games, to be held in Iran, were canceled over the dispute of the Persian Gulf label.

Gibraltar and Spain

[edit]

For the UEFA European Championship qualification, Gibraltar and Spain cannot be drawn together because of the disputed status of Gibraltar. The same rule is in place for Azerbaijan and Armenia because of poor relations between two countries, and it was imposed for Russia and Georgia after the 2008 Russo-Georgian War. However, it was lifted for the Euro 2016 tournament when Gibraltar and Spain agreed to play each other again.[91]

Hungary and Romania

[edit]
Main article: Hungary–Romania football rivalry

The national teams of Hungary and Romania are longtime rivals, as the two countries are neighbours and had numerous conflicts through history.[92][93][94] The first official match between the two teams dates back to 1936. Due to the general tension of the matches between the two teams and the numerous fan incidents resulting from the general feeling of antipathy between the two countries, it can be considered one of the most bitter rivalries of the football world.

Footballer politicians

[edit]
Footballer politicians
Name Country Team(s) Political post Comments Reference
Camille Dimmer Luxembourg Luxembourg (1957–1964) Member of the Chamber of Deputies of Luxembourg (1989–1994)
General Secretary of the Christian Social People's Party (1990–1995) 		[95][96]
Pelé Brazil Santos (1956–1974)
New York Cosmos (1975–1977)
Brazil (1957–1971) 		Extraordinary Minister of Sport (1995–1998) [97]
Mustafa Mansour Egypt Egypt
Al-Ahly
Referee
General Secretary of CAF (1958–1961) 		Government minister [98][99][100][101]
Ahmed Ben Bella Algeria Olympique Marseille (1939–1940) Prime Minister of Algeria (1962–1963)
President of Algeria (1963–1965) 		[102]
George Weah Liberia Liberia
A.C. Milan 		Presidential candidate in the 2005 Liberian general election
Senator
President of Liberia (January 2018–2024) [103] 		[104]
Don Rossiter England Leyton Orient Mayor of Rochester, Kent
Garan Fabou Kouyate Mali Referee
Albert Guðmundsson Iceland Arsenal
Racing Club
A.C. Milan 		Candidate in the 1980 Icelandic presidential election
Member of the Althing
Minister of Finance
Minister of Industry
Ambassador to France 		Father of Ingi Björn Albertsson [105]
Ingi Björn Albertsson Iceland Iceland Member of the Althing (1987–1995) Son of Albert Guðmundsson [106]
Oleg Blokhin Soviet Union, Ukraine Soviet Union
Dynamo Kyiv 		Member of the Parliament of Ukraine [107]
Carlos Bilardo Argentina San Lorenzo de Almagro
Deportivo Español
Estudiantes 		Buenos Aires Province Secretary of Sports [108]
József Bozsik Hungary Hungary
Budapest Honvéd FC 		Member of the National Assembly of Hungary (1953–1957) [109][110]
Toshiro Tomochika Japan Ehime FC Diet of Japan (2007–present)
Danny Jordaan South Africa Member of the Parliament of South Africa (1994–1997)
Randy Horton Bermuda Bermuda
New York Cosmos 		Member of the Parliament of Bermuda (1998–present)
Éric Di Meco France France
Marseille
William Clegg England England
Sheffield Wednesday 		Lord Mayor of Sheffield (1898) [111]
Roberto Dinamite Brazil Brazil
Vasco da Gama 		State Assembly of Rio de Janeiro (1994–present)
Romário Brazil Brazil Senate of Brazil (2010–present) [112]
Bebeto Brazil Brazil
Deportivo La Coruña 		[112]
Gianni Rivera Italy Italy
A.C. Milan 		Member of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy (1994–2001)
Undersecretary for Defense (2000–2001)
Member of the European Parliament (2005–2009) 		[1], [2], [3]
Kakha Kaladze Georgia Georgia
Dinamo Tbilisi
Dynamo Kyiv
A.C. Milan
Genoa C.F.C. 		Minister of Energy
Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia
Mayor of Tbilisi[113]
José Francisco Cevallos Ecuador Ecuador
Barcelona SC
Once Caldas
Deportivo Azogues
LDU Quito 		Ecuadorian Minister of Sports (2011–present) [114]
Roman Kosecki Poland Poland (1998–1995) Member of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland (2005–2019) [115]
Roman Pavlyuchenko Russia Russia
Tottenham Hotspur 		Member of Stavropol regional council [116]
Kaj Leo Johannesen Faroe Islands Faroe Islands Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands [117]
Titi Camara Guinea Guinea
Saint-Étienne
Lens
Marseille
Liverpool
West Ham United
Al-Ittihad
Al-Siliya
Amiens 		Minister of Sport [citation needed]
Detlef Irrgang Germany Energie Cottbus Councillor in Cottbus for the CDU
Zico Brazil Brazil Minister of Sport (1990) [118]
Lawrie McKinna Scotland, Australia Kilmarnock Mayor of the City of Gosford (2012–present) [119]
Alistair Edwards Australia Australia (1991–1997) Councillor of City of Cockburn (2000–2005)
Hakan Şükür Turkey Turkey
Sakaryaspor
Bursaspor
Galatasaray
Torino
Inter
Parma
Blackburn Rovers 		Member of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (2011–2015) [120]
Marc Wilmots Belgium Belgium (1990–2002)
Belgium manager (2012–2016)
Sint-Truiden
Mechelen
Standard Liège
Schalke 04
Bordeaux 		Member of Belgian Senate (2003–2005) [121]
Thomas Bodström Sweden AIK (1987–1989) Minister for Justice (2000–2006)
William Kennedy Gibson Northern Ireland Ireland (1894–1902)
Irish League XI (1894–1902)
Cliftonville (1892–1903)
Sunderland (1902)
Bishop Auckland (1902)
Sunderland Royal Rovers (1903) 		Member of Belfast City Council (1909–Unknown), 1929 Northern Ireland general election candidate
Oleg Malyshkin Russia Torpedo Taganrog
Uralan Elista 		Head of Tatsinsky District (1997–2001), Chief of Staff of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (2001–2003), Member of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia State Duma (2003–2007), 2004 Russian presidential election candidate
Jack Komboy Indonesia Indonesia (2004–2005)
Persipura (1999–2003, 2004–2010)
PSM (2003–2004) 		Member of Papua provincial council (2009–present) [122]
John Rawlinson (politician) United Kingdom England (1882)
Old Etonians
Cambridge University 		Conservative Member of Parliament for Cambridge University, elected 1906 [123]
Jim Platt United Kingdom Northern Ireland (1976–1986)
Middlesbrough (1971–1983)
Ballymena United (1973–1985) 		Elected to Middlesbrough Council in Kader ward, representing the Middlesbrough Independent Councillors Association, 2019-present [124]

Political views of association footballers

[edit]

Many association footballers have openly spoken about their political views, and some have even endorsed political candidates.

Brazil

[edit]

In the lead-up to the 2018 Brazilian presidential election, many Brazilian footballers openly endorsed right-wing and socially conservative candidate Jair Bolsonaro, then a member of the Social Liberal Party, who eventually became President. Footballers who endorsed Bolsonaro include Kaká, Felipe Melo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho. However, other players such as Paulo André and Juninho Pernambucano.[125]

In the lead-up to the 2022 Brazilian presidential election, several of the Brazil national team players endorsed Bolsonaro for re-election, this time running for the Liberal Party. Players that endorsed Bolsonaro include Alisson Becker, Dani Alves, Lucas Moura, Neymar and Thiago Silva.[126]

Former footballer Walter Casagrande has openly expressed left-leaning political views, and expressed disapproval over the country's national team's yellow jersey being worn by Bolsonaro supporters at his rally. In Brazil, the jersey has become associated with Bolsonarism.[127]

France

[edit]

In the lead-up to the 2024 French legislative elections and during the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany, two players from the France national team, Kylian Mbappé and Marcus Thuram, urged voters not to vote for the right-wing populist and national conservative National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, who they labelled "extremists".[128] Both Mbappé and Thuram are Black, and the National Rally advocates for less immigration.

United Kingdom

[edit]

In the lead-up to the 2019 United Kingdom general election, footballers Harry Arter, Hector Bellerin and Gary Lineker all criticised the centre-right Conservative Party, but did not explicitly endorse any other party. Bellerin is an outspoken critic of Brexit. On the other hand, pundits and former players Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville both endorsed the centre-left Labour Party.[129]

United States

[edit]

Megan Rapinoe

[edit]

Perhaps the most politically active soccer player in the United States is Megan Rapinoe, a former player who played for the United States national team and who spent most of her career at Seattle Reign (formerly known as Reign FC and later OL Reign). Politically, Rapinoe is a leftist and a progressive, and she has advocated for many socially progressive causes, particularly in relation to LGBT rights, gender equality, feminism, racial equality and abortion rights.

Rapinoe endorsed progressive Democrat Elizabeth Warren in the 2020 Democratic Party presidential primaries,[130] and hosted a panel with frontline workers at the 2020 Democratic National Convention.[131] She endorsed Joe Biden for the 2020 presidential election, and even offered to be his nominee Vice President.[132] Rapinoe has repeatedly criticised Donald Trump during his presidency.[133] Rapinoe was one of the first athletes to congratulate Biden on his victory in 2020.[134]

After Biden dropped out of the 2024 presidential election, Rapinoe, alongside former basketball player Sue Bird, endorsed Biden's successor as Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, for the 2024 presidential election, and was excited about Harris potentially being the first woman and the second Black person to become President of the United States.[135]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Mohammed, Farah (15 June 2018). "Soccer and European Identity". JSTOR Daily. Retrieved 22 November 2019.
  2. ^ Benoit, Macon (1 October 2008). "The politicisation of football: the European game and the approach to the Second World War". Soccer & Society. 9 (4): 532–550. doi:10.1080/14660970802257606. ISSN 1466-0970. S2CID 144529219.
  3. ^ Power, Martin J.; Widdop, Paul; Parnell, Dan; Carr, James; Millar, Stephen R. (3 March 2020). "Football and politics: the politics of football". Managing Sport and Leisure. 25 (1–2): 1–5. doi:10.1080/23750472.2020.1723437. hdl:10344/8828. ISSN 2375-0472.
  4. ^ "George Weah: From footballer to Liberia's president". BBC News. 2018.
  5. ^ a b c Campbell, Paul (18 November 2014). "Are you an average fan? Find out with YouGov's Premier League profiles". The Guardian. Retrieved 7 October 2015.
  6. ^ Tim Rich (9 May 2015). "Everton vs Sunderland match report: Danny Graham and Jermain Defoe fire Black Cats closer to Premier League safety". The Independent. Retrieved 4 January 2016.
  7. ^ Lowles, Nick; Nicholls, Andy (2007). Hooligans 2: The M-Z of Britain's Football Hooligan Gangs. Milo Books. ISBN 978-1903854648.
  8. ^ https://the-cauldron.com/chelsea-ashamed-since-when-a8003f0950a
  9. ^ https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/can-europe-make-it/from-football-hooligans-to-one-of-us-a-short-history-of-reaction/
  10. ^ https://www.creativeboom.com/inspiration/no-ones-likes-us/
  11. ^ Riach, James (10 September 2015). "Forza Clapton! The non-league club taking a stance against racism and homophobia". The Guardian. London. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  12. ^ Abiade, Yemi (17 February 2015). "Dulwich Hamlet hope anti-homophobia in football campaign is blueprint to others at top of game". The Guardian. London. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  13. ^ Sessions, George (3 November 2021). "Dulwich Hamlet's Danny Mills playing key role in football's fight against racism". The Independent. London. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  14. ^ Martin Belam (31 August 2018). "'No pasarán': Spain laps up Clapton CFC's anti-fascist football kit". Guardian.
  15. ^ "Clapton CFC online shirt sales have now CLOSED after a crazy few months". Clapton Community F.C. 11 March 2019. Retrieved 13 July 2019.
  16. ^ Krzysztof Kaczmarczyk (3 November 2020). "Wulgarny transparent strajku kobiet dotals do Anglii". Sportowe Fakty (in Polish).
  17. ^ DS (2 November 2020). "Angielski klub piłkarski wspiera Strajk Kobiet. "Solidarność z Polkami!"". Sport.pl (in Polish).
  18. ^ "On the sidelines with football's favourite anti-fascists". Huck Mag. 12 September 2018.
  19. ^ https://amp.dw.com/en/st-pauli-back-in-the-bundesliga-and-set-to-grab-attention/a-69131636
  20. ^ https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/st-pauli-supporter-clubs-clash-over-palestine-solidarity
  21. ^ a b https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5299823/2024/03/07/german-football-far-right-politics/
  22. ^ "Persamaan Persipura dan Barcelona Menuju Kemerdekaan". suarapapua.com (in Indonesian). 2 November 2017. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  23. ^ "Ada Bendera Bintang Kejora Di Pertandingan Persipura VS Santos". www.nabire.net (in Indonesian). 8 October 2013. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  24. ^ "Dikira Kibarkan Bendera OPM, Eks Pemain Asing Persipura Sempat Didatangi Polisi saat Selebrasi". papua.tribunnews.com (in Indonesian). 6 July 2020. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  25. ^ "Sejarah Persiraja Banda Aceh: Perjalanan Sepak Bola di Nanggroe Aceh dari Tahun 1957". www.acehground.com (in Indonesian). 11 October 2023. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  26. ^ "Persib Bandung: Kala Sepak Bola Menjadi Simbol Budaya". football-tribe.com (in Indonesian). 10 August 2017. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  27. ^ "Persija vs Persib: Ego, Gengsi, dan Rivalitas". www.cnnindonesia.com (in Indonesian). 1 March 2022. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  28. ^ "On this day 1995, Awal Mula Persija Jakarta Dimusuhi Publik Bandung". m.panditfootball.com (in Indonesian). 1 June 2014. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  29. ^ "Indonesia Vs Curacao Sepi Penonton, Ketum PSSI Sebut Fan Tak Tahu Negara Lawan". bola.kompas.com (in Indonesian). 25 September 2022. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  30. ^ "Laga Timnas Indonesia Vs Curacao Sepi Penonton, Warganet Nyinyir PSSI: Udah Bener di JIS". surakarta.suara.com (in Indonesian). 25 September 2022. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  31. ^ "Menyoal Dugaan Pengeroyokan Capo Ultras Garuda Usai Dukung Timnas U-19". kumparan.com (in Indonesian). 31 October 2018. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  32. ^ "Parah! Spanduk Dukungan Terhadap Timnas Indonesia Dicopot Suporter Persib, Fanatisme Membutakan Nasionalisme". kontenjatim.com (in Indonesian). 2 June 2022. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  33. ^ a b "The Politics of Israeli Soccer: A Guide for the Perplexed".
  34. ^ Heller, Aron (20 January 2012). "Israeli club paying price for racist fans". Associated Press.
  35. ^ "Episode 11". E:60. Season 6. 6 November 2012. ESPN.
  36. ^ "Israeli club paying price for racist fans". FOXSports.com. Microsoft. 19 January 2012. Retrieved 6 November 2012.
  37. ^ Bradshaw, Luke (8 November 2018). "Sporting Rivalries: Beitar Jerusalem and Hapoel Tel Aviv". Culture Trip.
  38. ^ "The not-so-beautiful game of football in Israel". Financial Times. 2 January 2010. Retrieved 1 May 2021.
  39. ^ "Hapoel Tel Aviv on the up after political swing". HeraldScotland. 15 September 2009.
  40. ^ "Play stopped after Lazio supporters racially abuse Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly". thescore.com. 3 February 2016.
  41. ^ "Amicizie e Rivalità" (in Italian). Archived from the original on 8 November 2012.
  42. ^ Hawkey, Ian (3 April 2005). "Political Football". The Times. London: TimesOnline. Retrieved 31 August 2008.[dead link‍]
  43. ^ Livorno Fans see Red – all the Time by Ian Hawkey, The National, 5 February 2010
  44. ^ "FIFA Player of the Century" (PDF). touri.com. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
  45. ^ a b Forsyth, Roddy (26 October 2007). "Old Firm rivalry? It's a lot to do with football". The Telegraph. London. Retrieved 4 November 2017.
  46. ^ Richard Wilson, "Inside the Divide" (Edinburgh: Canongate Books, 2012), p. 87: "What is being asserted is two identities: Rangers and Celtic. There are other boundaries: Protestant and Catholic / Unionist and Republican / Conservative and Socialist ..."
  47. ^ The final whistle for God's squad?, The Guardian, 27 February 1999
  48. ^ "A rivalry tied up in religion". BBC News. 26 August 2006.
  49. ^ Foer, Franklin (2010). How Soccer Explains the World: An Unlikely Theory of Globalization (Reprint ed.). Harper Perennial. pp. 36–37. ISBN 978-0061978050.
  50. ^ France, Stephanie (9 March 2001). "CAMPAIGNS: Public Awareness – Nil by Mouth fights bigots in Scotland". PR Week. Retrieved 23 December 2010.
  51. ^ "Drop in domestic abuse incidents on Old Firm match days". BBC News. 9 March 2010. Retrieved 23 December 2010.
  52. ^ David Child (18 April 2018). "More than a game: How politics and football interplay in Spain". Al Jazeera. Retrieved 30 September 2020.
  53. ^ a b Sid Lowe (26 March 2001). "Morbo: The Story of Spanish Football by Phil Ball (London: WSC Books, 2001)". The Guardian. Retrieved 26 September 2020.
  54. ^ Phil Ball (21 April 2002). "Mucho morbo". The Guardian. Retrieved 26 September 2020.
  55. ^ "Las citas con morbo: Clásicos, derbis, Vitolo en el Pizjuán..." [The dates with 'morbo': Classics, derbies, Vitolo in the Pizjuán ...] (in Spanish). Diario AS. 21 July 2017. Retrieved 26 September 2020.
  56. ^ Spain's football hooligan map, El País, 12 December 2014
  57. ^ The Spanish corner: a hate divided, The 42, 28 February 2011
  58. ^ Conspiracies, class divides and all-night parties: Why Real Betis vs Sevilla is Spain's hottest derby, FourFourTwo, March 2002
  59. ^ European football cultures and their integration: the 'short' Twentieth Century, Antonio Missiroli, European Union Institute for Security Studies, 1 March 2002
  60. ^ Ball, Phil (21 April 2002). "The ancient rivalry of Barcelona and Real Madrid". The Guardian. London. Retrieved 30 September 2020.
  61. ^ "Barcelona in the strange and symbolic eye of a storm over Catalonia". The Guardian. 2 October 2017. Retrieved 30 September 2020.
  62. ^ Barcelona Revel in Real Madrid Rivalry, but Espanyol Remains Most Bitter Clash, Bleacher Report, 28 March 2014
  63. ^ Neil Stacey (15 January 2016). "This is Athletic Bilbao: the club whose loyalty to local talent is not negotiable". The Guardian. Retrieved 30 September 2020.
  64. ^ Pete Jenson (26 August 2014). "Pete Jenson: Athletic Bilbao's locals-only transfer policy shows success does not need to be bought". The Independent. Retrieved 30 September 2020.
  65. ^ Behind The Closed Doors Of Basque Country, Srinwantu Dey, Goalden Times, 18 October 2016
  66. ^ "Armed Conflict Year Index". Archived from the original on 3 October 2013. Retrieved 19 May 2016.
  67. ^ Henshaw, Richard (1979). The Encyclopedia of World Soccer. New Re. p. 387. ISBN 0-915220-34-2.
  68. ^ "Site-Map-Israel-Football-Facts—Stats". Retrieved 19 May 2016.
  69. ^ "Bayati recalls Iran's tense win over Israel".
  70. ^ Montague, James (27 February 2008). "Football: Time for Israel to return to Asian Football Confederation". The Guardian. Retrieved 2 October 2024.
  71. ^ Montague, James (27 February 2008). "Time is right for Israel to return to its Asian roots". The Guardian. London.
  72. ^ David Randall (10 October 2011). "Maradona admits 'hand of God' goal was revenge for Falklands". The Independent. Archived from the original on 4 May 2021.
  73. ^ "France 1998 World Cup: 1st Round – Day 12 Match Reports". Retrieved 19 May 2016.
  74. ^ a b "Menyandingkan penolakan Israel di Piala Dunia U-20 dengan sikap Sukarno di Asian Games 1962, relevankah?". www.bbc.com (in Indonesian). 1 April 2023. Retrieved 26 December 2023.
  75. ^ "FIFA Fact Sheet: History of the FIFA World Cup (TM) Preliminary Competition" (PDF). FIFA. 2010. Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 June 2010. Retrieved 9 June 2010.
  76. ^ "2020 Under-19 EURO cancelled". UEFA.com. Union of European Football Associations. 20 October 2020. Retrieved 21 October 2020.
  77. ^ "Chinese riot after Japan victory". BBC News. 7 August 2004. Retrieved 23 May 2010.
  78. ^ "Sports Diplomacy Is the New Comeback Kid | USC Center on Public Diplomacy | CPD Blog". Archived from the original on 11 October 2008. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
  79. ^ "Iraq celebrates football victory". BBC News. 29 July 2007. Retrieved 23 May 2010.
  80. ^ O'Rourke, Breffni (2 February 2012). "Iraq: Asian Cup Win Powerful Boost For Unity". RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty. Retrieved 19 May 2016.
  81. ^ Patrick Martin (31 July 2007). "Iraqi team wins Asian Cup, captain condemns US occupation – World Socialist Web Site". Retrieved 19 May 2016.
  82. ^ "Jubilant Iraqi captain scores political goal as well". The Sydney Morning Herald. 31 July 2007.
  83. ^ "Iraq's Asian Cup win transcends sport". Reuters. 30 July 2007.
  84. ^ a b "Iraq ride wave of support to lift Asian Cup". Reuters. 29 July 2007. Archived from the original on 14 January 2008.
  85. ^ Gray, Sadie (7 September 2008). "Turkey and Armenia start to mend old emnities (sic) via World Cup football match". The Times. London. Archived from the original on 18 September 2008. Retrieved 23 May 2010.
  86. ^ Purvis, Andrew (5 September 2008). "Can Soccer Heal Turkey-Armenia Rift?". Time. Archived from the original on 26 August 2013. Retrieved 23 May 2010.
  87. ^ "Turkey-Armenia soccer diplomacy brings opportunity to help thaw frozen ties_English_Xinhua". Archived from the original on 25 January 2016. Retrieved 19 May 2016.
  88. ^ "President Gül says Turkey-Armenia soccer match will generate important opportunities". Archived from the original on 13 September 2012. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
  89. ^ "Irish demand rematch". www.heraldsun.com.au. 20 November 2009. Archived from the original on 29 January 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
  90. ^ "Al-ManarTV:: Iran Set to Limit Ties with UAE over "Occupation"‌ Claims 03/05/2010".[dead link‍]
  91. ^ "UEFA reveal Euro 2016 qualifying pots". FourFourTwo. 24 January 2014. Retrieved 18 August 2014.
  92. ^ "Hungary v Romania background". UEFA.com. 8 July 2015.
  93. ^ "Euro 2016 rekindles Hungary v Romania rivalry". WSC. 9 October 2014. Archived from the original on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 17 August 2015.
  94. ^ A World Cup Qualifier Is a Hostage to History, James Montague, New York Times, 5 September 2013
  95. ^ "DIMMER Camille". European Association of former Parliamentarians. Archived from the original on 24 March 2012. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  96. ^ "EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS HISTORY". Maltasport.com. Archived from the original on 6 May 2011. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  97. ^ Bellos, Alex (25 November 2001). "Pele slips from Brazil pedestal". The Observer. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  98. ^ Shaheen, Amr (3 May 2002). "1934: The flying Egyptian". BBC Sport. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  99. ^ Shaheen, Amr (24 July 2002). "Trailblazing keeper Mansour dies". BBC Sport. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  100. ^ "General Assemblies and history". Cafonline.com. Confederation of African Football. 12 October 2008. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  101. ^ "MEMORIES: Keeper Mustafa great pair of hands". Evening Times. Herald & Times Group. 3 September 2010. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  102. ^ "Fiche de Ahmed Ben Bella". OM-Passion.com (in French). Archived from the original on 19 April 2012. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  103. ^ "Liberia's George Weah slashes his salary and vows to change 'racist' constitution". The Guardian. 30 January 2018.
  104. ^ Soares, Claire (27 November 2005). "10 Questions for Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf". Time. Archived from the original on 2 December 2005. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  105. ^ "Albert Guðmundsson (Albert Sigurður)" (in Icelandic). Alþingi. Archived from the original on 6 June 2011. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  106. ^ "Ingi Björn Albertsson" (in Icelandic). Alþingi. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  107. ^ Hughes, Rob (16 October 2009). "UEFA's Platini Displays Some Deft Moves". New York Times. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  108. ^ Ley, John (18 November 2008). "Argentina '86: Where are they now?". The Telegraph. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  109. ^ Glanville, Brian (19 November 2006). "Peerless Puskas". The Sunday Times. Retrieved 26 May 2011.[dead link‍]
  110. ^ "József Bozsik". Sports-Reference.com. Archived from the original on 18 April 2020. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  111. ^ Vincent, John (23 May 2011). "Match knights". Yorkshire Post. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  112. ^ a b Chandler, Helen (30 November 2010). "Brazil's World Cup heroes swap football for politics". CNN. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  113. ^ Editorial, Reuters. "Former soccer star Kaladze becomes mayor of Georgia's capital". U.K. Archived from the original on 24 October 2017. {{cite web}}: |first1= has generic name (help)
  114. ^ "Señor ministro – José Francisco Cevallos asumió el Ministerio del Deporte oficialmente". futbolecuador.com (in Spanish). Quito, Ecuador. 26 May 2011. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  115. ^ "Posłowie VI kadencji" (in Polish). Sejm of the Republic of Poland. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  116. ^ Gripper, Anne (14 October 2008). "Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko wins seat in Russian council election". Daily Mirror. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  117. ^ Corless, Damian (11 April 2009). "Now he's away with the Faroes". Irish Independent. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  118. ^ "The Perils of Pelé". New York Times. 29 December 1994. Retrieved 26 May 2011.
  119. ^ Collins, Terry (25 September 2012). "First time councillor Lawrie McKinna elected mayor of Gosford Council". Express Advocate. News Community Media. Retrieved 26 September 2012.
  120. ^ "Hakan Şükür urged to quit Parliament, not only ruling AKP Movesurl=http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/hakan-sukur-urged-to-quit-parliament-not-only-ruling-akp.aspx?pageID=238&nID=59753&NewsCatID=338". Hurriyet. 17 December 2013.
  121. ^ Marc Wilmots – MR, retrieved 4 June 2014
  122. ^ "Terjun di Politik, Jack Komboy Sibuk Kampanye" (in Indonesian). 26 March 2009. Retrieved 14 July 2009.
  123. ^ [hhttps://goalkeepersaredifferent.com/keepers/politically-speaking.html "Politically Speaking, Goalkeppers Are Different"] (in Indonesian). 26 October 2024. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
  124. ^ [hhttps://goalkeepersaredifferent.com/keepers/politically-speaking.html "Politically Speaking, Goalkeppers Are Different"] (in Indonesian). 26 October 2024. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
  125. ^ https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/brazil-footballers-jair-bolsonaro-ronaldinho-rivaldo-kaka-lucas-moura-212100?srsltid=AfmBOooJCzoMkvlFOGgBnGwkNR_m_StBwlU9H-4jrniGnzJGB2NGBvRq
  126. ^ "How the Brazil National Football Team Came to Symbolize Jair Bolsonaro". 17 November 2022.
  127. ^ "Brazilian soccer star Neymar Jr. Faces criticism for Bolsonaro support".
  128. ^ "France's star athletes refuse to 'stick to sports' ahead of elections". Newsweek. 18 June 2024.
  129. ^ https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/general-election-2019-who-biggest-21081285?int_source=amp_continue_reading&int_medium=amp&int_campaign=continue_reading_button#amp-readmore-target
  130. ^ "Megan Rapinoe just endorsed Elizabeth Warren for president". 13 December 2019.
  131. ^ "Soccer star Megan Rapinoe speaks to frontline workers at DNC". 18 August 2020.
  132. ^ "Megan Rapinoe throws support behind Joe Biden in Instagram chat, offers to be his running mate". May 2020.
  133. ^ "Joe Biden joked that he'd love to have USWNT star Megan Rapinoe as his VP, but that she'd 'have to take a pay cut' to take the job". Business Insider. 30 April 2020.
  134. ^ "Megan Rapinoe cannot get to the White House fast enough following Biden & Harris' election". 9 November 2020.
  135. ^ "Megan Rapinoe, Sue Bird endorse Kamala Harris on women's fundraising call". 26 July 2024.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Association_football_and_politics&oldid=1257959404"