Podcast: Argentinian Football Language and Culture

I welcome Christopher Hylland, author of Tears at La Bombonera, back onto the podcast to discuss his second book, Dame Bola: A Journey Through the Language of Argentinian Football.

In this podcast, we cover:

The Language of Argentinian Football: We explore the depth of Argentinian football culture, rooted in a unique language that intertwines metaphors, slang, and imported terms from English, Spanish, and Italian origins.

English-language Legacy: We examine the influence of British origins on Argentinian football vocabulary, with terms like “offside” and “referee” adapted into local linguistic forms.

Argentinian Matchday Culture: We celebrate the rich carnival atmosphere of Argentinian football, featuring traditions like ticker tape, giant banners, and brass bands that distinguish it from European football aesthetics. We delve into the passionate and enduring role of fan songs, organised by the barra brava, blending rhythm, unity, and a belief in their influence on the team’s success.

Aguante: We discuss the concept of aguante (endurance and support), highlighting the deep connection between fans and their teams, expressed through relentless song and superstitious gestures.

Ríoplatense Influences: We explore the impact of shared traditions between Argentina and neighbouring Uruguay, emphasising their collective influence on South American football and its global cultural reach.

The Research Process: We share humorous and poignant anecdotes from the research process, showcasing the informal and vibrant ways football language permeates everyday life in Argentina.

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I release a new podcast every two weeks, so be sure to subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. You can find Football Travel by Outside Write on Apple, Spotify, Player.FM and Anchor. Look for it in Google Podcasts too. I’d really appreciate a rating or view if you like what I’m doing as it helps others discover the podcast. 

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The podcast is sponsored by Pibe de Barrio, the on-the-ground football experts in Buenos Aires, helping you live the Argentine matchday experience.