The rivalry between Italy and France is a historical, cultural and even sentimental phenomenon, which evokes parallels with the eternal dispute Brazil vs Argentina in football. Just like in South America, the clash between these European countries transcends sporting borders, involving aspects of identity, mutual admiration and, of course, some good doses of resentment.
A cultural rivalry
For Italians, the French often represent the “arrogant cousins”, endowed with a supposed cultural and intellectual superiority that is disturbing.
For the French, Italy is seen as a country of dreams, vibrant culture and joy of life. This difference in perception shapes a peculiar relationship: while the Italians view the French with a certain rivalry, the French nurture an almost romantic admiration for Italy.
France looks to Italy as the cradle of art and lifestyle. Great names in French literature and cinema, such as writer Jean d'Ormesson and filmmaker Yvan Attal, idealize the neighboring country as a refuge for creativity and happiness.
Even President Emmanuel Macron is known for his declared love of Naples and Italian theater.
Stereotypes and myths
Just as Brazil is often reduced to the cliché of the “country of samba and football”, Italy, in the eyes of the French, still carries traces of the “pizza pasta and mandolin” stereotype.
However, the relationship between the two countries goes far beyond these simplifications. For many French people, Italy represents sophistication, history and an almost tangible vitality, expressed in culture, fashion and gastronomy.
Interestingly, soft power Italian is stronger in France than the Italians themselves imagine.
From Elena Ferrante to the series Gomorrah, passing through iconic brands such as Vespa and Ferrari, Italian cultural influence permeates French society.
This fascination is even seen in popular expressions: in some regions of France, it is recommended to “do it the Italian way”, an allusion to supposed Italian romanticism.
Football: the breaking point
If Italy is admired in culture, in football it arouses deep resentment.
For the French, the end of the 2006 World Cup It is an open wound, marked by the Italian victory on penalties and Zidane's emblematic headbutt on Materazzi.
Football is the only field where the rivalry is more intensely felt by the French than by the Italians, whose main historical rivals are teams such as Germany and Brazil.
On the field, the rivalry intensifies. Behind the scenes, however, respect for Italian tradition persists.
While the French recognize the excellence of the Italians' style of play and their passion for the sport, the memory of defeats makes it difficult to admit this openly.
