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IN BRIEF
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The ultras of the Lazio football club, often associated with far-right ideologies, made headlines by paying tribute to Jean-Marie Le Pen, the controversial founder of the National Front, who recently passed away. This gesture, which took place during the celebrations marking the club’s 125th anniversary, raises questions about the links between sport and politics, as well as the place of extreme rhetoric in current sports events.
A significant banner
During the celebrations, a banner was unfurled by the supporters, displaying a clear message: “Buon viaggio Jean-Marie,” or “Safe journey, Jean-Marie.” This inscription leaves no doubt about the ideological affiliation of the ultras, who do not hesitate to express their support for a prominent figure in the French political scene, notoriously known for his controversial positions.
The context of the tribute
Jean-Marie Le Pen, who passed away on January 7, left an indelible mark on the French political landscape. His career, marked by numerous controversies, has been shadowed by convictions for remarks deemed inciting hatred and discrimination. By commemorating his memory, the Lazio ultras express not only personal admiration but also a closeness to his ideas, which raises concerns among the public and observers of sports life.
A notorious reputation
The Lazio ultras are sadly known for their behaviors and slogans that often flirt with racism and anti-Semitism. They have repeatedly been called out for chants and offensive banners during matches, revealing ideological affinities with far-right movements. This latest tribute to Le Pen fits into a long line of provocations that raise questions about the responsibility of football clubs and sports authorities in the face of such behaviors.
Links between sport and politics
The act by the ultras underscores its significance in the broader debate on interactions between sport and politics. Football, often considered a neutral space, sometimes serves as a platform for extreme political opinions. The actions of the Lazio supporters fall within a strategy where the club becomes a vehicle for expressing values that do not always align with the sporting ideals of camaraderie and respect.
Reactions to this tribute
The reactions to this tribute are varied and often heated. On one side, some praise the frankness of the ultras, viewing their tribute as an act of loyalty to shared convictions. On the other side, the majority express concern over the normalization of such opinions within stadiums, with this event provoking outrage and controversy across media and social networks.
