99% Invisible
A Sea of Yellow
Jan 17, 2023
In this engaging discussion, Fernando Duarte, a BBC journalist and author on Brazilian soccer, explores the cultural significance of Brazil's iconic yellow jersey. He describes its evolution from a source of national pride to a symbol intertwined with far-right ideologies during recent political turmoil. The conversation covers the emotional weight of soccer in Brazil, the impact of pivotal moments like the 1950 World Cup, and the jersey's complex role in shaping national identity amidst cultural conflicts.
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Quick takeaways
- The yellow jersey of the Brazilian national soccer team holds immense symbolic importance, representing a sense of belonging and national pride.
- The political appropriation of the yellow jersey by far-right supporters has caused many on the left to distance themselves from it, questioning its true meaning.
Deep dives
The Symbolic Power of the Yellow Jersey
The yellow jersey of the Brazilian national soccer team holds immense symbolic importance for the country. In Brazil, soccer is deeply ingrained in the culture, and the yellow jersey represents a sense of belonging and national pride. It is seen as a unifying symbol that transcends social and economic barriers. The jersey is vibrant and joyful, capturing the spirit of Brazil. However, recent events have tarnished the reputation of the jersey. Riots by far-right supporters wearing the yellow jerseys during political protests have led to associations between the jersey and extremism. This has caused many soccer fans, especially those on the left, to distance themselves from the jersey and question its true meaning.
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