Fox Sports and the Myth of Casual American Soccer Fans
During the 2018 FIFA World Cup, many viewers, particularly in the United States, found themselves questioning the quality of Fox Sports' coverage. The infamous Alexi Lalas, who was heavily criticized for his uninformed commentary, represents a larger issue within American sports broadcasting. This piece delves into the flaws in Fox Sports' coverage, the misconception of the so-called "casual soccer fan," and the necessity for networks to adapt to the audiences they serve.
The Unfortunate Role of Alexi Lalas
It was a common sight to catch Alexi Lalas on TV or on digital platforms during 2018 FIFA World Cup games, much to the frustration of many viewers. His apparent lack of knowledge and the frequent blunders in his commentary raised eyebrows and calls for his dismissal from any football-related positions. This critique extends beyond the 2018 World Cup, as his hiring could be seen as a deliberate attempt to highlight sections of American society that lack interest in soccer. However, such a perspective is misguided, as the issue lies in a general lack of understanding and appreciation for the sport within the American audience.
Anti-Intellectualism in American Sports Commentary
The coverage of the 2018 FIFA World Cup by Fox Sports can be attributed to a pervasive anti-intellectualism within certain sections of the American audience. There is a prevailing belief that a person must not be intellectually capable if they are uninterested in soccer. This attitude is not only detrimental to the sport but also misleading, as it oversimplifies a multifaceted issue. European commentators, such as Ian Wright, were forced to tone down their insights to cater to the American audience, leading to a loss of the depth and quality often associated with their expertise.
The Impact of Bad Commentary on Casual Fans
The presence of uninformed commentators like Alexi Lalas has a significant impact on the interest of casual fans. When a person watches a sport and the commentators do not provide accurate or insightful information, it can lead to disappointment and disillusionment with the sport. This experience does not reflect the casual fan's lack of understanding; instead, it highlights the responsibilities of the network in delivering quality content. In reality, there are no "casual soccer fans" in the traditional sense. American audiences either have a passion for the sport or show little to no interest, with no middle ground.
The Necessity for Adaptation
Networks like Fox Sports often try to force change on the audience, expecting them to adapt to the methods used by other countries. However, this approach is flawed, as it does not consider the cultural and attitudinal differences between American audiences and those in other parts of the world. For instance, American networks frequently demand that international commentators "dumb down" their commentary to fit American expectations. In turn, this demand for "adaptation" from other networks often fails to recognize the benefits of adapting to other methods that have proven successful in the past.
The Path Forward
To improve the quality of soccer coverage in the United States, networks must recognize the genuine lack of familiarity among many Americans with soccer. This involves hiring knowledgeable commentators who can provide insightful analysis and catering to the audience's need for authentic information. Additionally, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for soccer within the American culture is crucial. This can be achieved through initiating educational programs and increasing sports media coverage that includes diverse commentary styles and perspectives.