Austrian FA Halts Use of 'L'amour Toujours' as Anthem Due to Far-Right Misuse

The Austrian Football Association (OEFB) has decided to discontinue the use of the song 'L'amour toujours' for its national team anthem. This decision comes in response to its misuse by far-right sympathizers.

The decision to stop using 'L'amour toujours' reflects the importance of separating sports from extremist ideologies in the national team anthem. This move sets a precedent for other sports organizations to take a stand against hate speech and discrimination.

Originally released in 2000 by Italian DJ Gigi D'Agostino, 'L'amour toujours' had been a popular choice played in stadiums after goals scored by the Austrian national team. However, recent incidents have marred its reputation.

The OEFB made this decision after right-wing extremists were filmed shouting xenophobic slogans to the melody of the song. These actions prompted the association to take a firm stance against intolerance.

In a statement quoted by the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung, the OEFB emphasized its commitment to values of tolerance, diversity, and integration. 'The OEFB clearly stands for tolerance, diversity, and integration and is committed to respectful coexistence in all areas of society. Following the recent incidents of misuse, the song will not be played at OEFB international matches,' the statement read.

The decision to stop using 'L'amour toujours' reflects the OEFB's dedication to creating an inclusive environment. The association aims to ensure that its events do not become a platform for extremist ideologies.

Austria is set to begin its European Championship campaign in Germany against France on June 17. The match will mark the first time the national team will play without 'L'amour toujours' as their anthem.

The OEFB's decision highlights the importance of maintaining a sporting environment that upholds respect and unity, distancing itself from any form of hate speech or discrimination.

Key Takeaways

• Austria's Football Association (OEFB) drops "L'amour toujours" as national team anthem due to far-right misuse.
• The song was played after goals, but recent incidents marred its reputation with xenophobic slogans.
• OEFB emphasizes values of tolerance, diversity, and integration, committing to respectful coexistence.
• The decision aims to create an inclusive environment, distancing the sport from extremist ideologies.
• Austria's European Championship campaign will be the first without "L'amour toujours" as their anthem.