2021: Ukrainian map and Russian territory
On June 6, the Ukrainian Football Association (AUF) unveiled its jersey for Euro 2021. A yellow and blue outfit, classic at first glance, but on which we can see the contours of the borders of Ukraine including Crimea . The Russian neighbor did not like the initiative, which annexed the territory in 2014 without the international community recognizing it. Ditto for the two slogans on the shirt: “Glory to Ukraine!” “And” Glory to the heroes! », Which take up a patriotic song. Questioned by Russia, UEFA asked AUF to change the wording “Glory to the heroes” but on the other hand it validated the map of Ukraine appearing on the jersey and including Crimea
2017: three bands and a war in Spain
Adidas did not expect to cause a controversy by disclosing, in November, the Spanish jersey for the 2018 World Cup. On the right side, the red and blue merging slightly, the pattern of the three stripes is reminiscent of the flag of the Second Republic (red, yellow and purple), which ended with the civil war and the accession to power of General Franco in 1939. The regime had also, at the time, granted autonomy to Catalonia, a very sensitive subject in the country in recent years. Enough to make Spanish politicians react. The equipment manufacturer and the federation remained firm: “It’s blue, nothing but blue. “
2016: the British poppy and the fine
It is a rule decreed by FIFA: no political, religious or commercial messages are allowed on the jerseys of national teams. The poppy British is no exception to the rule. This poppy is worn in all Commonwealth countries from the end of October to November 11, Armistice Day, in tribute to the dead and wounded of the First World War. FIFA therefore sanctioned the English and Scottish federations (respectively with a fine of 42,000 euros and 18,600 euros) for wearing the poppy. A decision “Scandalous”, according to Theresa May, then prime minister.
2014: the “1” of the outlines of Palestine
In January, Club Deportivo Palestino, playing in the Chilean first division, presents on its jerseys figures “1” with a particular design: they display the outlines of Palestine before 1948 and the creation of the State of Israel. The club, founded in 1920 by Palestinian immigrants, remains supported by a large local community (the largest outside the Arab world). According to France 24, the goalkeeper of the team had already worn a similar number in 2002, without causing a scandal. But this time around, the Jewish community reacted strongly and the Chilean Federation banned the jersey after three games.
1992: swastikas and fascist memories
In Italy, Fiorentina does not have good memories of the 1992-1993 season and its relegation to Serie B. The start of the Florentine club’s competition was not more cheerful. Blame it on the away jersey. The geometric shapes of its upper part suggest two swastikas, noticed after a few matches by supporters. The controversy is amplified by the sulphurous past of the club: from 1931 to 1945, its stadium was named after Giovanni Berta, a fascist activist from Florence. Fiorentina and the equipment supplier Lotto defend the fortuitous nature of the symbols, but put away the jersey after a week.