Superpowerful but superinvisible? Women's football and nation in presidential discourse in Colombia, 2010-2018
A summary of the research:
The article "Superpowerful but Superinvisible? Women’s Football and Nation in Presidential Discourse in Colombia, 2010-2018" examines how women’s football was represented in the speeches and social media posts of Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos during his presidency. Using critical discourse analysis, the study compares how the men’s and women’s national football teams were portrayed in relation to Santos' national unity project. While men’s football was frequently highlighted as a symbol of national pride and unity, women’s football was largely overlooked, receiving far fewer mentions. When women’s football was acknowledged, it was often in a patronizing manner, focusing on physical appearance rather than athletic achievements, thus reinforcing gender stereotypes.
The study concludes that despite the successes of the women’s national team during Santos’ presidency—including qualifying for World Cups and the Olympics—their achievements were not celebrated as integral to the national identity in the same way as the men’s team. Women’s football was seldom mentioned in speeches or tweets, reflecting broader societal undervaluing of women's sports in Colombia. The research highlights the need for more equitable recognition and representation of women athletes in public discourse, particularly in contexts of national pride and identity.
Key Takeaways:
Underrepresentation of women’s football: Women’s football received significantly less attention in presidential speeches and social media posts compared to men’s football.
Reinforcement of gender stereotypes: When women’s football was mentioned, it often focused on the players' physical appearance rather than their skills or contributions to the sport.
Missed opportunities for national unity: Despite the women’s national team's successes, they were not used as symbols of national pride and unity in the same way as the men’s team, reflecting broader societal biases.
Author: Peter Watson
Read the entire article here.
