The tension between Hong Kong and China has spilled over into the world of football, with fans using international matches as a platform to voice their frustrations. According to Sutcliffe, not all those in attendance at these matches were even football fans, but rather individuals looking to make a statement.
Despite efforts by the Hong Kong SAR Government to crack down on the booing of the national anthem, including passing a bill criminalizing disrespect to the anthem, the protests have persisted. In fact, in the first home game open to the public since the new law was introduced, the national anthem was once again booed by sections of the crowd.
The situation escalated further when the 83 sporting associations in Hong Kong were told they had to add “China” to their names or risk losing funding. This move led to a rush of football fans buying the last batch of shirts with the former Hong Kong logo before the word “China” was added.
Sutcliffe, who was tasked with balancing China’s requests while maintaining Hong Kong’s separate identity, highlighted the delicate dance between the two entities. Despite the Chinese Super League boom briefly threatening to realign relationships in the region, Hong Kong maintained a closer relationship with Japan, who saw it as their role to mentor smaller member associations and improve football across Asia.
As tensions continue to simmer, it remains to be seen how the relationship between Hong Kong and China will evolve in the world of football.
