Dr. Mahfoud Amara
THE Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan was more than just a high-stakes sporting event - it was a window into broader social, cultural, and geopolitical dynamics. Football, as ever, reveals much about the world we live in.
The rise of PSG to the top tier of European football is, in itself, a story of global investment reshaping the traditional power structures of the game. Since Qatar Sports Investment acquired the club, PSG have become a symbol of the growing influence of the Global South in European football. It took years of effort, numerous setbacks, and public skepticism, but the club finally reached the pinnacle again - three decades after Marseille’s historic victory.
This season’s PSG side stood out not for its galaxy of superstars, but for its teamwork and cohesion. Under coach Luis Enrique, the club has evolved from a star-driven brand to a more collective centered. Interestingly, many of the young players in the squad may have grown up dreaming of playing for PSG precisely because of the glamour brought in by earlier signings superstars. Yet today, the team reflects something more grounded: resilience, unity, and shared ambition. That’s the first lesson.
The second is diversity—not just on the pitch, but in the stands. PSG’s squad represents a cultural mosaic of footballing styles and ethnic backgrounds. So do its fans, who reflect the multicultural reality of Paris and France more broadly. This very diversity has been framed by some political figures as a threat to French national identity. Yet paradoxically, many of those same voices are among PSG’s most vocal supporters - some were even in the stadium in Munich.
The third lesson is about political consciousness in the football world. In Munich, PSG fans used the media spotlight to express solidarity with Gaza and the Palestinian people, drawing attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Their banners and chants remind us that being a football fan doesn’t mean being detached from global injustices.
Finally, there was a deeply human moment that reminded us of what truly matters. Before kickoff, Inter Milan fans waited respectfully for PSG supporters to finish their chant before launching into their own anthem. It was a rare moment of mutual respect. PSG fans displayed a touching tribute to their coach, honouring the memory of his daughter who passed away. This, too, is football.
In an age of division and polarisation, the game can still bring people together—not just to celebrate goals, but to reflect on identity, injustice, and empathy. The Champions League final reminded us that football is never just about football.
Dr. Mahfoud Amara is an Associate Professor in Sport Social Sciences and Management at Qatar University.
