Marseille ultras clarify ‘Viva Roja’ tribute to Spain

The South Winners, an ultra supporters' group for Olympique de Marseille, has clarified the intent behind a large ‘Viva Roja’ banner displayed at the Stade Velodrome during the club’s Ligue 1 season opener against Strasbourg. The massive tifo, which translates to ‘Long live Spain’, sparked confusion and speculation among French football fans because Spain had previously eliminated France from the World Cup.

Rachid Zeroual, vice-president of the South Winners, addressed rumors that the display was a political statement or a personal jab at former France manager Didier Deschamps. Zeroual rejected these theories, stating the tribute was an expression of admiration for the Spanish national team’s impressive footballing performances. He also noted that the group is a multicultural community that includes Spanish members.