Brazilian soccer club Corinthians, known for their aversion to the color green, made an exception as they prepared to host the first-ever NFL game in South America at their stadium, NeoQuimica Arena in Sao Paulo. The Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles were set to play, with the Eagles adjusting their usual green attire to black and white to align with Corinthians’ colors at the request of the club’s president. This request came as a move to maintain the club’s tradition of steering clear of any association with their local rival, Palmeiras.
Corinthians, with a massive fanbase exceeding 35 million, has a strong cultural dislike for the color green, so much so that players can face fines for wearing it, and sponsors must comply with the club’s color preferences. The rivalry between Corinthians and Palmeiras dates back over a century and is deeply rooted in the history of both teams, shaping the culture and traditions of the clubs and their supporters.
Despite the longstanding rejection of green at Corinthians, the club made an exception for the NFL game, allowing the field to be filled with green as the Eagles faced off against the Packers. This decision sparked discussions among fans, especially those loyal to Palmeiras, who historically embrace the color green. The unique circumstance of the NFL game brought together elements of tradition, rivalry, and the global appeal of sports.
The history of Corinthians and Palmeiras is laced with intense competition on and off the field, with notable incidents like the tragic car crash in 1969 that further fueled animosity between the two teams. Corinthians’ aversion to green dates back to the 1970s, with the color being strictly prohibited in all aspects of the club, creating a strong identity and sense of unity among supporters.
Despite financial challenges and Palmeiras’ recent successes, Corinthians remains steadfast in upholding its traditions and principles, including the ban on the color green. The club’s dedication to its values and history is evident in various situations, such as refusing green warm-up vests during the Club World Cup final in 2012.
As Corinthians faced Flamengo in a Brazilian league match, fans like Claudia Luane reflected on the club’s unique culture, expressing admiration for the community-driven model of the Green Bay Packers. The presence of a community-owned team in the NFL resonated with Corinthians supporters, emphasizing the shared values of inclusivity and grassroots engagement in sports, transcending the boundaries of colors and rivalries.
