Schweinsteiger sparks racism storm with "savage" comment about Ivory Coast

Schweinsteiger calls Ivorian football "savage" ahead of Germany clash

Bastian Schweinsteiger has ignited a racism storm with his description of Ivorian football as "un football africain parfois sauvage", African football that is sometimes savage (2). The comment, directed at your team, was made in the buildup to Ivory Coast's World Cup match against Germany.

The remark has provoked outrage inside Germany itself. German media and public figures have condemned the former midfielder's words, with the controversy dominating coverage ahead of the Group E encounter (2).

Schweinsteiger was speaking about the Ivorian national team's style of play when he used the phrase. Ivory Coast pushed Germany to the limit earlier in the tournament, taking the lead through Franck Kessié before Deniz Undav's late double turned it around. Your team earned widespread praise for that performance. Now a German legend has chosen to describe it with a term loaded with colonial baggage.

Curacao up next in Group E

Ivory Coast face Curacao in their next World Cup 2026 fixture (1). The match is a must-watch as your team fights for a spot in the knockout rounds.

Coach Fae's side remain firmly in contention to advance from Group E. A win here keeps the Round of 16 within reach, with a potential clash against France waiting depending on final standings. Amad Diallo and teenager Christ Inao Oulai will be key again after impressing earlier in the tournament.

Fan reactions

The Schweinsteiger comments have hit a nerve. Ivorian supporters online are calling the remark exactly what it is, outdated and demeaning, and pointing to the Germany performance as proof your team deserves respect, not stereotypes. Follow the discussion here.