In a striking gesture that has captured the attention of the entire nation, fans of Legia Warsaw football club unveiled a controversial display during their recent match against Zagłębie Lubin, which they won 2-0. The display, boldly emblazoned with the words “Refugees, welcome.”
The setup featured the images of three individuals: two men—one wielding a baseball bat, the other a hammer—and a blonde woman with a braided hairstyle, who wore a cross on a chain around her neck and held a pig’s head on a plate. This provocative imagery was accompanied by a backdrop of white and red, the national colors of Poland.
This display has been interpreted by many as a stark commentary on the issues surrounding illegal migrants. Some fans and commentators have lauded it as “a beautiful, true voice of the nation and ordinary citizens.” Comments on social media and football forums suggest that many see this as an example of patriotism, praising the Legia Warsaw supporters for not being disappointed with their message.
The “Refugees, welcome” banner is likely to go down in history as one of the more memorable fan displays in Polish football, noted for its boldness and the intense debate it has sparked among the public. Whether viewed as a piece of performance art or a political statement, it reflects the complex attitudes towards migration in Poland and perhaps broader Europe. As the reactions continue to pour in, it’s clear that the display has left an indelible mark on the discourse surrounding refugees and nationalism in sports.