Ian Wright, Arsenal legend, has argued that AFCON’s coverage is tainted with racism, he also said the competition does not get the deserved respect
By Kehinde Okeowo
Arsenal legend and former England striker, Ian Wright, has claimed the Africa Cup of Nations is the most disrespected soccer tournament in the world.
Ian Wright said so in an Instagram video post, where he argued that the coverage of the continental soccer competition is tainted with racism.
According to him, representing one’s country is the greatest honour for any sportsperson, footballers inclusive.
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The 58-year-old also wondered why journalists covering the competition ask African players the kind of questions they dare not ask their European counterparts if it were to be a UEFA tournament.
He said, “I’ve got to ask something: is there ever a tournament more disrespected than the Africa Cup of Nations?
“There is no greater honour as a sportsperson than representing your country. The coverage is completely tinged with racism, completely tinged. You are getting players asked by journalists if they will be honouring the call-ups to their national teams.
Could you imagine if that was an English player representing the Three Lions? Could you imagine the furore?”
Wright’s passionate message did not go unnoticed, as it was applauded by Samuel Eto’O, former Barcelona striker and the current president of the Cameroon Football Association.
He wrote on Twitter: “Respect Ian Wright! There’s no greater honour for a sportsperson than representing your country.
“The Africa Cup of Nations is a celebration of African pride, and next week’s AFCON will once more prove the undeniable greatness of African Players.”
A Lot of European-based African players will be participating in this year’s AFCON, which will be played between January 9 and February 6, 2022.
