An opportunity to enjoy international competitions
With the arrival of summer, also comes the excitement of the European Championship. After World Cups, Eurovisions and Olympic Games, it’s nice to be able to enjoy international competitions without having to worry about supporting controversial situations. While no country or sponsor is free from sin, the moral bar is low enough that we can enjoy the show without moral dilemmas. Some nations have been banned, others not invited, but these competitions allow us to put our differences aside and focus on the sport. It is an opportunity to celebrate civility and sportsmanship in an international context.
The excitement of national team football
National team football has a special charm. It’s fascinating to watch players put aside club rivalries and defend their country’s colors. It is a show of patriotism and a way to channel national passions in a positive way. This does not mean that football is a low passion, but that it is a way of expressing the most intense emotions. National teams embody stories, values and conflicts, and the pride they inspire goes beyond football. It is a way to represent the country abroad and to be part of the world.
The special case of Catalonia
For Catalans, these competitions are particularly significant. They remind us that we are not a normal nation and that we cannot represent Catalonia in these events. However, there is no team that represents us more than the Spanish team. We may encourage other nations for different reasons, but the experience is not the same. The Catalan national team is not a national team in the strict sense of the word, as it only plays friendly matches against lower level teams. It’s a shame that the Barça players don’t learn Catalan, as that would be a stronger symbol of identity.
The importance of national selections
The national teams have a double role: they allow us to be part of the world and help us to explain our particularities to the outside world. They allow us to celebrate, suffer and be excited as a country. In addition, they are a way to represent our identity and to be recognized internationally. It is essential that national teams exist and have the opportunity to compete in events such as the Euros. This allows us to be part of the party and the international community.
Illusion and reality
Despite the excitement that the national teams arouse, we must be aware of the reality. The world does not see us as an independent nation and many times we are identified as part of Spain. That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the experience and excitement of the Euros, but we have to be aware of our situation. Perhaps a stateless selection allows us to experience a normalcy that does not exist, but it also reminds us of our subjugation. In any case, the excitement and pride of being part of the party are feelings we cannot deny.
