In the world of sports, there are instances when spectators focus on more than just the scoreboard; they observe the underlying values, the words spoken, and the silences that follow. These reflections lingered in my mind during this World Cup.
Historical Context of the Final
On the surface, Sunday’s final seemed straightforward: Spain versus Argentina. Both nations are footballing powerhouses with rich histories. However, their pasts are also marred by colonization and oppression, which cannot be overlooked simply because a soccer match is taking place.
This match was not merely a battle of good versus evil. Spain’s colonial history is well-documented, and anyone familiar with history understands this reality.
For many Black Americans, the final was less about supporting Spain and more about opposing Argentina.
Racism and Controversy Surrounding Argentina
When a fanbase is repeatedly linked to racist incidents, such as videos showing Argentine supporters hurling racial slurs, or the national team singing a racist chant aimed at Black players after winning Copa América, the narrative shifts. Additionally, the controversy surrounding American streamer IShowSpeed, who faced verbal abuse from fans in Argentina gear, and the existence of a burger joint in Llavallol with an offensive name further complicate perceptions. Furthermore, President Javier Milei’s alignment with Donald Trump and his support for Israel amid the ongoing crisis in Palestine raised additional concerns. These factors combined to overshadow Argentina’s achievements on the field.
It’s akin to a college basketball coach who appears to have a successful program on the surface. Despite a strong winning record and high graduation rates, whispers about abusive behavior and a toxic environment can lead to questions about the integrity of the program. Eventually, the results become secondary, prompting inquiries into the true nature of the team.
Messi’s Silence and Its Implications
Argentina consistently provided reasons for spectators to critically assess their actions, leading to reflections on Lionel Messi. This aspect is uncomfortable for many, as Messi is universally admired for his exceptional talent. His accomplishments are undeniable, and whether one considers him the greatest player or among the elites, the debate is about nuances of greatness.
However, on-field greatness does not always translate into off-field courage. Historical figures like Muhammad Ali and Bill Russell have shown that being exceptional in sports does not equate to taking a stand on pressing societal issues.
To my knowledge, throughout the World Cup, Messi has not made any public statements condemning the racist behavior of some Argentine supporters. He has remained silent regarding the chant that drew global condemnation after Copa América and has not addressed the incidents of racial abuse circulating on social media.
His silence stands in stark contrast to the expectations placed on athletes, as noted by my co-host Chuck Modi during our show, The Collision: Where Sports and Politics Collide:
Messi did not even meet this minimal standard, offering no public statements addressing the racism exhibited by his supporters.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. articulated this in his Beyond Vietnam speech: “No, before Messi, Milei. He’s a superstar”
Sometimes, a lack of response becomes a statement in itself when the most prominent voice chooses to remain quiet. This is in stark contrast to the newer generation of athletes emerging after Messi.
Emerging Voices in Sports
Lamine Yamal has openly shared his family’s struggles, recalling how his father searched for discarded items to sell to provide for their needs. He has described growing up in a cramped apartment, where the kitchen and bedroom were indistinguishable. Today, he finds joy in seeing his mother smile and ensuring his younger brother enjoys a childhood he never had.
Nico Williams shares a similarly poignant story, as his mother, María, walked nearly 2,000 miles while pregnant from Ghana to Spain in search of a better future. Years later, he scored the goal that secured Spain the World Cup and honored her by placing the winner’s medal around her neck.
Spain’s victory extended beyond tactics or technical skill; it represented the potential for a diverse and confident society shaped by the experiences of those who have crossed borders in pursuit of a brighter future. This sentiment, more than any tactical achievement, was their most significant message.
After Spain triumphed over Argentina, one moment stood out: Lamine Yamal embracing Messi. There was no taunting or disrespect, just mutual respect between generations. As an old African proverb states, “What’s going on with the Indiana Hoosiers?”
Another resonant image was Yamal kneeling in prayer amidst the post-match chaos, contrasting with the tensions around him. While others engaged in disputes, he chose to pray. This moment highlighted that composure can speak louder than confrontation.
Yamal has also demonstrated a willingness to articulate his stance on issues beyond football, including expressing solidarity with Palestine. The significance lies not in whether people agree with every stance an athlete takes, but in their recognition that their platform extends beyond the confines of the game.
Legacy Beyond the Game
Jackie Robinson is remembered for more than his base-stealing prowess. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s legacy extends beyond his iconic shot. Colin Kaepernick is noted for more than his dual-threat quarterbacking. Over time, statistics become mere paragraphs, but character evolves into chapters.
This is why I find comparisons between Messi and Ali unconvincing. One transformed football, while the other transformed the world.
Many have wondered why so many Black Americans seemed invested in seeing Argentina lose. The answer is not complicated. After a lifetime of hearing that sports and politics should remain separate—only to hear this sentiment invoked when racism arises—patterns emerge.
People urged Ali to “She has to be more specific. When Alyssa Thomas was getting death threats, she has to say Alyssa Thomas by name, and say directly to her fans that you cannot have death threats going to Alyssa Thomas in my name the same way we as Jewish people say not in my name for Palestinian rights. She needs to use all of her clout and tell her fans this is unacceptable.” They told Kaepernick to “A time comes when silence is betrayal.” LeBron James was advised to “The lion doesn’t need to roar after every meal.” Jaylen Brown faced accusations of being “What you do speaks so loudly in my ears that I can’t hear a word you’re saying.” Athletes appear free to use their platforms—until their statements make others uncomfortable.
This has always been the unspoken rule, until it is not.
This World Cup transcended mere goals because individuals chose to emphasize broader implications. Issues of racism, politics, and silence magnified the stakes. For many, supporting Spain did not equate to endorsing its history but rather rejecting what Argentina had come to symbolize in this context. Sometimes, cheering involves selecting the lesser of two evils.
Perhaps this explains the attraction to the younger generation of players—not just for their victories, but because they embody the belief that excellence and conviction can coexist. As Abdul-Rauf stated in our interview for my book Police Brutality and White Supremacy: The Fight Against American Traditions.
I wholeheartedly agree.
“She has to be more specific. When Alyssa Thomas was getting death threats, she has to say Alyssa Thomas by name, and say directly to her fans that you cannot have death threats going to Alyssa Thomas in my name the same way we as Jewish people say not in my name for Palestinian rights. She needs to use all of her clout and tell her fans this is unacceptable.”
“What you do speaks so loudly in my ears that I can’t hear a word you’re saying.”
