Religion and soccer collide in DStv ad, ARB dismisses blasphemy allegations

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Pivotal moment

In the advertisement, a church setting unfolds, with congregants engaged in various activities while a preacher delivers a sermon. A pivotal moment occurs when a young girl signals for a change, prompting a shift from solemnity to spirited celebration. A male character, reminiscent of soccer coach Steve Komphela, takes the podium, injecting fervent soccer-themed rhetoric into the congregation. The scene culminates in a joyous celebration, echoing the theme of soccer passion filling one's soul.

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The complaint lodged against the advertisement centered on allegations of blasphemy and disrespect towards religious beliefs. However, the advertiser countered by emphasising the contextual nuances. They argued that the portrayal of a church service intertwined with soccer elements aimed to resonate with sports enthusiasts, particularly fans of the DStv Premiership Soccer League.

Context

Key to the advertiser's defense was the contextual framing of the ad, which targeted viewers interested in soccer culture. They highlighted the thematic connection between the church congregation's attire and the Moroka Swallows soccer club, suggesting an intended resonance with target audiences.

In researching, it has found out that there are numerous churches/church goers, who wear their colours to church on certain occasions and that they are as proud of their football allegiance as they are about their culture and religion, where football coaches like Steve Khompela are revered for their ability to inspire fans and players alike.

As an example, documentaries such as Sunderland Till I Die, have real-life churches praying not just for the health and prosperity of its congregation, but also that of Sunderland Football Club.

In its evaluation, the ARB considered the Code's provisions on offensive advertising, scrutinising the advertisement's potential to denigrate religion or religious figures. Ultimately, the ARB concluded that the ad did not cross the Code's stipulations. While acknowledging potential discomfort with the juxtaposition of religion and sport, the ARB interpreted the advertisement as a portrayal of enthusiasm rather than disrespect.