The broadcast of the Spanish Grand Prix on TV3, Catalan public television, has generated great controversy. During the performance of the Spanish national anthem before the race, the broadcast narrator continued with the introduction of the race, speaking over the music, which is unusual, because it is a moment of respect. Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso, the two Spanish F1 drivers, were firm and excited listening to the anthem, but that detail was also passed on to the Catalan narrator.
This fact has been interpreted by many as a lack of respect towards the anthem and towards the Spanish national symbols and even more so when the narrator himself began to remain silent as soon as Els Regadors, the Catalan regional anthem, was played. That is to say, he was aware that remaining silent when the anthem plays is a sign of respect, he just didn’t want to do it.
Criticism of TV3 for its coverage of the Spanish anthem has not been long in coming. Figures like Josep Pedrerol, presenter of the sports program “El Chiringuito” have been among those who have expressed themselves clearly on the networks. But Rafa Guerrero, his collaborator on the program, has been much more emphatic: “Without words…like the anthem…well, if I say what I think…they stop me.” Social networks have also been filled with messages of indignation on the part of the spectators.
It should be noted that these types of incidents are not new in the Spanish F1 Grand Prix. In previous years, there have already been tensions related to the display of Spanish flags on the circuit, and their entry has even been prohibited in some areas. Despite the commotion generated, TV3 has not offered any official explanation for its decision not to respect the Spanish anthem during the broadcast of the Grand Prix.
2024-06-24 14:52:13
