LRNYC / MEGA

Samuel L. Jackson drew criticism ahead of the World Cup final after reposting an IG Story urging Black fans not to support Argentina. The post from the “Django Unchained” star was accompanied by an image of his character from the film, Stephen, wearing the South American team’s jersey.

The controversy echoes years of debate over racism in Argentine football, including incidents that prompted investigations from FIFA.

Samuel L. Jackson Shares Controversial ‘Django’ Post Before World Cup Final

In the build-up to the World Cup final, Samuel L. Jackson shared a striking Instagram Story urging Black soccer fans not to back Argentina.

The actor reposted a graphic from the SEC Black Alumni Network that described Argentina as “historically one of, if not the most racist countries in the world.”

“Dear Black People… Please do not cheer or root for Argentina to win the FIFA World Cup… If you are a black person cheering for Argentina, this is what you look like to me. We hear you loud and clear,” the post concluded, alongside an image of Jackson’s “Django” character wearing a La Albiceleste jersey.

While Jackson simply reshared the graphic rather than posting an original statement in his own words, his decision to amplify it from his verified account was widely interpreted as an endorsement.

Jackson’s Controversial Repost Divides Opinions

MEGA

While many social media users backed Jackson’s perspective on Argentina, others argued the country was being unfairly singled out.

On X, one person applauded the actor’s stance, writing, “If you root for the racist, you’re racist too,” while another claimed, “One of the best parts of this World Cup was seeing my timeline full of people from all over the world treating the Argentinians just like they deserve.”

Others, however, insisted racism is not unique to Argentina. “It’s starting to seem like only Argentina has racists,” one commenter argued, as another wrote, “Brazilian racism (way more perverse) is ignored.” A separate user also pointed to the country Jackson appeared to favor in the World Cup final, noting, “Vinícius Júnior suffered racial abuse in Spain’s stadiums!”

Past Incidents Fuel Racism Concerns Around Argentina

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Argentine football has repeatedly faced scrutiny over racist conduct involving supporters and players.

After Argentina defeated France in the 2022 World Cup final, some fans adopted an offensive chant questioning the French players’ nationality and targeting their African heritage. The controversy intensified following Argentina’s 2024 Copa América triumph, when members of the national team were filmed singing the same song during their celebrations.

The French Football Federation condemned the remarks as “racist and discriminatory” and filed a complaint with FIFA, which opened an investigation. Midfielder Enzo Fernández, who livestreamed the footage, later apologized and acknowledged that the words were “highly offensive,” while his club Chelsea initiated an internal disciplinary process.

More recently, Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni received a UEFA ban after being found to have racially abused Brazil star Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match, further renewing questions about discrimination surrounding the country’s football culture.

Tempers Boil Over In World Cup Final

The World Cup final added another flashpoint to the criticism already surrounding Argentina’s conduct on the international stage. Enzo Fernández was himself sent off in stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsí, leaving Argentina with ten men for extra time.

The tension escalated again after the final whistle, when a mass confrontation broke out between both teams. Leandro Paredes of the South American nation was then also shown a straight red card for his role in the melee.

Argentina Players Faced Away From Spain’s World Cup Celebration

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Argentina’s questionable behavior in the eyes of the fans carried on into the post-match coronation routine for the winners.

After collecting their runners-up medals, several players turned their backs as Spain captain Rodri lifted the World Cup trophy, instead facing the Argentine supporters behind one end of the stadium. The gesture quickly drew criticism from pundits and fans alike, with many describing it as poor sportsmanship after an already ill-tempered contest that ended with a post-match melee.

The incident added to the scrutiny surrounding Argentina’s conduct throughout the final and came as FIFA launched an investigation into the violent confrontations that erupted moments after Spain sealed the title.

The Samuel L. Jackson Draws Heat Over ‘Django’ Post Before World Cup Final: ‘Do Not Cheer For Argentina’ first appeared on The Blast