Brighton & Hove Albion FC is under fire after sharing a now-deleted social media post featuring Japanese player Kaoru Mitoma posing with a mocked-up football card of Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier who continued fighting until 1974 after WWII. The post ignited outrage among Chinese fans, with many calling it a “deeply offensive” nod to Japan’s wartime atrocities.
Jack Forsdike, a leader of Brighton’s official Chinese fan club, told media he initially thought the image was “fake or AI-generated.” He emphasized the pain caused by glorifying a figure linked to Japan’s invasion of China, where millions perished. “Platforming a fascist soldier is unacceptable,” he said.
While Brighton apologized and stated they “hugely value” Chinese fans, critics argue the incident reflects a broader lack of awareness about Asia’s WWII trauma. Many note no apologies were issued to other nations invaded by Japan, like Korea or the Philippines.
🇨🇳 Chinese social media users are demanding stronger accountability, with hashtags like #NeverForget trending. The controversy highlights the delicate balance sports teams must strike in global fandoms—where history and modernity collide. 🚨
