The use of warlike language in soccer. The cases of the Barça-Madrid Clásico and the Espanyol-Barça derby on six radio stations

Abstract

This paper conducts a critical analysis of the discourse and metaphors used in the broadcasts and after-match programs of the six radio channels with the largest audience in Spain, broadcasting from Madrid and Barcelona. We have analyzed two matches: the Clásico played on April 23, 2017 between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid and the derby between RCD Espanyol and FC Barcelona played on April 29, 2017. The narratives present discourses that promote the “us versus them” dialectic and hate speech, of which warlike language and metaphors are one of the manifestations. The recourse to weaponry terms, military slang and violence-related references are prominent features which are frequently observed in all the radio stations analyzed. The paper concludes that there currently exists a normalization of exclusionary discourses in prime-time sports programs, which could lead to a future normalization of more violent discourses.

KEYWORDS: hate speech, soccer, warlike language, sports radio, sensationalism, partisan journalism.