FC Bayern as a role model? Local rival 1860 angers fans | OneFootball

TSV 1860 Munich had only good things in mind with its latest campaign – but it still annoyed its fans in two ways. The comparison with FC Bayern also plays a role

While FC Bayern is undisputed at the top of the Bundesliga table and is currently regarded as one of the strongest teams in Europe, city rivals 1860 Munich are struggling in the 3rd division. There is no direct competition among the professionals – but the two clubs are now even working together on a major project in youth development

The great competition of the past for sporting supremacy in the Bavarian capital is history – at least on the pitch. Off the pitch, however, fan camps regularly clash in conflicts and provoke each other with graffiti, as is currently the case

This makes the new approach of the Sechziger merchandising department all the more surprising: the Löwen fan store has launched a T-shirt against racism. The topic is relevant and the motives are not without reason: there was recently a racism scandal at the traditional club’s third division match against Energie Cottbus: there were monkey noises in the stands and the Hitler salute was also shown. The match was called off, but was not carried out

Anti-racism shirt: good message, but title resembles Bayern project

Against the backdrop of these events, TSV wants to send an important message. The only catch: the collection is to bear the title „Blue against racism“. This is therefore problematic for the Sechzig fans, as FC Bayern is prominently advertising its own anti-discrimination campaign with the slogan „Red against racism“. The clearly recognisable parallel to the German champions annoys the Löwen supporters

However, it is not only the similar slogan that causes incomprehension, but also the price of the shirt: at 39.90 euros, the garment is said to cost significantly more than the comparable FC Bayern shirt with almost identical lettering, which fans can get for 15 euros

Löwenmagazin even accused the advertising department of „woke washing“, which refers to the practice of companies using socio-political issues in marketing campaigns to create a positive image without showing any real, consistent commitment. The fact that a dark-skinned model was chosen for the collection also caused astonishment among supporters. The Löwenfans gegen Rechts organization wrote on Instagram: „The campaign should be advertised and worn by people in solidarity and not by those affected by racist violence.“

Criticism is manifold in the emotionalised debate. Meanwhile, the merchandising department of the Sechziger tried to de-escalate: „We heard you. And we are acting together,“ it said in a statement. The entire proceeds from the sales would be donated. A joint anti-racism project between Bayern and the Löwen does not appear to be planned at present.