Some football clubs have political identities because they were historically created as class-based, religion-based, or ethnicity-based associations, with a political mission from the start. This is evident in the way clubs have been used as tools for social pacification, sources of political propaganda, and avenues for protest.
Historical Context
The connection between football and politics can be traced back to the early 20th century, when European football began to embody four main characteristics: an agent of international relations, a source of political propaganda, a tool for social pacification, and an avenue for protest. This is evident in the way dictators like Mussolini and Franco used football to build national pride and establish the legitimacy of their political movements.
Political Expressions in Football
The expression of political beliefs is more prevalent in certain countries, such as Italy and Spain, where football has been closely tied to political ideologies and cultural identities. This is evident in the way fans express their political beliefs, such as Barcelona fans chanting "Libertad" and waving Catalonian flags.
Influence of Politics on Football
Politics has had a significant influence on football, with many footballers choosing to pursue a career in politics. Examples include George Weah, who was elected as the President of Liberia in 2017, and Johannesen, who became the Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands in 2008.