Football superstitions and rituals have been around for years. As an active follower of this sport, I’ve seen numerous acts, from wearing lucky socks to stepping onto the pitch with a specific foot first.
These habits may seem strange, but for some, they serve essential psyche and performance-related purposes. Without further ado, follow the article and discover more about fascinating football rituals and bizarre traditions.
Introduction to Football’s Strangest Rituals
In every league and country, you’ll see different approaches to football rituals. Mostly, it’s a part of the preparation before entering the pitch. Below, you’ll find the football rituals explained and some interesting moments that will definitely excite you.
Top Footballers and Their Bizarre Pre-Match Habits
Pre-match rituals are integral for top footballers and are a part of their regular routine. Below are some of the most renowned footballers and their pre-game habits.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo admitted that he is highly superstitious. The veteran player always enters the field with his right foot first. Perhaps it’s this custom that gives him confidence and allows him to perform at the highest level still at the age of 40.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi – no more words needed to describe the Argentinean magician. However, why would he need a ritual? Well, it seems he does. He has a family breakfast before every game, and it’s crucial that each participant sits strictly in their place. After all, he is a father of three sons.
Neymar
Neymar will forever remain one of the biggest upsets for fans. However, he’s a devoted family man. In 2023, his second child was born, and the ritual that Neymar does before the match is also very family-like. Every game, the Brazilian calls his father.
David Beckham
Few might know that David Beckham suffers from OCD. He has an obsession with symmetry and even numbers. Before every match, he would ensure that everything in his locker was arranged neatly, and if he had a choice, he would only wear a jersey with an even number on it.
Thibaut Courtois
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has a strange tradition in the Belgian national team. Before every game, during the anthem, he touches his chin when the camera pans to him. Have you noticed?
Paul Pogba
A star who we hope to see back at the top of his potential. His pre-match ritual includes dancing in the locker room before heading out. This helps him to get himself together and come out with a confident mentality.
Gennaro Gattuso
Before his games, Gattuso always read the Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky. It’s not known why he started doing this, but it eventually became a kind of tradition for focus.
Anyone who saw Gennaro Gattuso as a player will definitely remember the passion with which he fought on the field. According to the former Milan captain, reading Dostoevsky helped him concentrate.
The Impact of Rituals on Performance
Rituals mostly have a positive impact on players’ performance. I’ve read different interviews on global football habits from various athletes. They underline the importance of their specific actions. However, it does not mean wonders in every match.
Funniest and Most Unbelievable Rituals
Are you ready for some weird football rituals? I’ve compiled three examples that are sure to give you a bit of a smile. Have a look!
Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff is a legend of football. His personality, leadership, and technical skills are still discussed nowadays. Interestingly, the Dutch genius had a superstition: whenever playing, he always spat chewing gum on the opponent’s half before kick-off. In his opinion, it would bring him and the club good luck.
Laurent Blanc
Among the famous footballer rituals and traditions, our second one comes from Laurent Blanc. It can be said that French players are pretty superstitious. Blanc always kissed Fabien Barthez on his bald head before each match, and it worked like a charm.
The French team won the World Cup in 1998, beating Brazil 3-0 in the final. And, of course, in real life, Blanc and Barthez remain great friends. Don’t you just love a happy ending?
Malvin Kamara
You may not have heard this name before, but since we are talking about weird rituals, Malvin Kamara definitely needs to be on our list. The former footballer watched the 1971 film Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory before every game!
Sounds ridiculous, right? Well, he believed the movie helped keep him calm and relaxed before stepping onto the pitch. Most importantly, it’s not a myth, and Kamara even admitted to doing so.
The Cultural Aspect of Pre-Match Rituals
Do traditions and rituals work? Well, this question is tricky to answer. For some footballers, these traditions are a great way to get rid of their anxiety and prepare psychologically. Added to that, they’re deeply embedded in the culture of different regions and countries. Let’s explore them in more detail below.
European Football’s Craziest Rituals
European football is known for its crazy rituals and devotion. I’ve seen many, but one of the best that I can remember is the Viking Thunder Clap, which gained prominence after Iceland’s success at Euro 2016.
When the national team returned to their homeland, thousands of fans waited for them, clapping in the motion. This display creates a sense of intimidation and symbolizes unity. Fans in Greece and Scotland tried to mimic the clap, but for me, the original is unmatched.
South/North American Football Superstitions
The same can be said about South American football. The charm and energy demonstrated by fans is magical. One of my favourites is the Argentinian phrase “Anulo Mufa.” It translates to “I cancel the jinx.”
This way, supporters sort of cancel bad vibes during critical moments to possibly influence the positive outcome for their favourite teams. Whether it works or not, you can decide for yourself.
Rituals Passed Down Through Football History
Traditions are not limited to one place or one time in history—they go down through different generations. Whether in South American football, Europe, or Africa, rituals and traditions endure the test of time and are an integral part of every football moment.
For instance, I can remember watching one of Brazil’s games, and the prayer was a significant boost for the team and their mindset. Also, walking out with mascots is an act of connecting clubs with communities.
Rituals as a Part of Football Lore
For every true lover of football, the game is more than just a sport. For me, it’s a mix of traditions, legends, and rituals that are deeply rooted in the culture. Despite weird sports traditions and behaviour from certain players, rituals unite squads and people around the world.
For instance, Liverpool’s “This is Anfield” sign will forever leave a mark on the club’s legacy.
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