Smoking in Football: Erling Haaland’s Celebration To Toast Man City Treble
Introduction
Football has always been associated with celebrations, but sometimes, the way players celebrate can be controversial. Recently, Norwegian striker Erling Haaland made headlines by channeling his inner Pep Guardiola with a cigar celebration to toast Manchester City’s Champions League and Treble triumphs.
The Celebration
It is not the first time that Guardiola has celebrated with smoking cigars. The enigmatic City boss is renowned for taking in trophy-winning parties from within a cloud of smoke. An interesting point to note is that basketball icons Michael Jordan and LeBron James are also partial to the odd celebratory cigar after NBA Finals wins. Haaland has now got in on the act at the end of a debut campaign with City that saw him land Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League titles while recording 52 goals across all competitions.
Ethical and Philosophical Considerations
Haaland’s cigar celebration has ignited a debate about smoking in football. Given the harmful effects of smoking, there’s increasing pressure on public figures, including sportspersons, to lead a smoke-free life. Smoking is detrimental to health, and there is overwhelming scientific evidence suggesting that smoking increases the risk of developing various diseases, including heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory tract infections.
Football has had a long-standing relationship with smoking, and coaches and players have been seen smoking regularly. However, with changing times, there has been a shift in public perception, and smoking is increasingly viewed as a health hazard and an unhealthy habit that needs to be discouraged. While smoking is legal, the role models in sports, including Haaland, need to consider the impact their actions have on impressionable young minds.
The Bigger Picture
Haaland’s response after winning the Champions League shines a light on his ambition and dedication. After the victory, the striker expressed his desire to do it again, indicating a strong desire to defend their conquered titles. He also expressed his belief that he can take his game to even greater heights despite breaking records already.
Editorial and Advice
Haaland’s cigar celebration represents a broader issue around smoking in football and in society. While smoking is legal, it is a habit that must be discouraged, especially by public figures who are in the spotlight. As role models, they must act responsibly and recognize the impact of their actions on fans and young people, who may look up to them. Football authorities need to take a strong stand against smoking, both on and off the field, to ensure that the sport promotes healthy living and values.
In conclusion, it is essential to encourage a culture of healthy living in sport and beyond, where smoking has no place. Footballers should set an example and lead a smoke-free life to encourage others to follow their lead. It is time for football to take a bold stance against smoking, and players and coaches alike should play a vital role in this endeavor.
<< photo by Andrea Piacquadio >>
