Sportswashing by political regimes refers to hosting sports events or taking part in competitions with the aim to serve propaganda campaigns and stoke chauvinistic sentiments. Prior to the African Cup of Nations, Algerian media spoke with disdain against their opponents and put political pressure on players led by coach Belmadi. Another worrying trend revealed during the AFCON 2023 was the rampant racism prevailing among many Algerian fans. Emulating their political leaders in uttering racist slurs, many Algerian influencers became notorious for their disdain and racist comments on social media. In 2019, Moroccans took to the streets to celebrate Algeria’s win of the African cup of nations.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 25, 2024 22:15 UTC