Argentina is a nation where soccer is more than just a sport; it’s deeply woven into the fabric of daily life. For Argentines, soccer isn’t a leisure activity, it’s a constant conversation. From casual acquaintances to powerful executives, the first question you’ll likely be asked is, “What team do you support?” It’s a question that transcends social boundaries and permeates every facet of Argentine society. The national passion for soccer is palpable, even influencing political discourse. It’s a topic that dominates television and radio broadcasts, often overshadowing even the most significant political discussions.
The Influence of Soccer on Argentine Politics
The influence of soccer in Argentina extends far beyond the playing field, reaching into the very heart of the nation’s political landscape. The president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), Armando “Chiqui” Tapia, is the son-in-law of Hugo Moyano, the leader of one of Argentina’s most powerful labor unions. Interestingly, Moyano also happens to be the president of the iconic club, Independiente. The connection between soccer and politics is further exemplified by the presence of Marcelo Tinelli, a television magnate and former presidential candidate of the AFA, who has held various positions at San Lorenzo, including vice-president. One of the most striking examples is the current Argentine president, Mauricio Macri, who started his “political” journey in the mid-1990s as the president of Boca Juniors. Even the current president of Boca Juniors has significant ties to Argentina’s intelligence community. It’s clear that soccer in Argentina is not just a sport, it’s a platform for social and political connections.
How to Watch Argentine Soccer
For soccer fans in the United States, watching the Primera Division is now easier than ever. Paramount+ holds the English-language television rights to the league. They acquired the rights in the spring of 2021 and will continue to stream matches until the end of the 2024 season. However, for those who prefer Spanish, Fanatiz offers legal streaming of Primera Division games, including the legendary clashes between River Plate and Boca Juniors. Fanatiz also features matches from the Chilean league and cup, along with other exciting competitions from across the continent.
The Giants of Argentine Soccer
When it comes to Argentine soccer, the two giants are undeniably Boca Juniors and River Plate. Between them, these clubs have amassed a staggering 70 titles, dwarfing the success of any other team. While these two clubs dominate the scene, other teams like Racing, Independiente, Velez Sarsfield, Rosario Central, and San Lorenzo have also achieved notable successes in recent years.
The Structure of the Argentine Primera Division
After a period of adjustments, particularly regarding the number of teams in the top tier, the Primera Division now consists of 26 clubs. The season typically runs from July/August into the South American summer, which is the winter in the northern hemisphere. Like many other countries that employ a semester-based system, Argentina uses a points average system to determine which teams are relegated. This average is calculated by dividing the total points earned by the number of matches played over the past four seasons.
Promotion and Relegation in the Primera Division
Teams at the bottom of the table face relegation, with their spots being filled by the champion of the Primera Nacional (second division) and the winner of a single-elimination tournament involving teams ranked second to ninth in the table. For a deeper understanding of promotion and relegation systems across the world of soccer, check out our dedicated article on this topic.
The Copa Argentina: A Nation-Wide Cup Competition
In addition to the league, Argentine clubs compete in the Copa Argentina. This cup tournament, which was revived after two previous editions in 1969 and 1970, was introduced during the “Fútbol Para Todos” era. Its founders aimed to engage regions that don’t consistently have top clubs participating in the league. The tournament kicks off in February and is typically played at neutral venues, with the final taking place in late November or early December.
The Rewards of Copa Argentina Victory
The winner of the Copa Argentina earns a coveted spot in the Argentine Super Cup, where they will face the league champion. They also secure a place in the Copa Libertadores, unless they have already qualified through league performance. In the event that the winning team is already qualified for the Copa Libertadores, the tournament runner-up will then earn a place in this prestigious continental competition.
Conclusion
The Argentine Primera Division is more than just a soccer league; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From its deep roots in Argentine society to its impact on politics, the league reflects the nation’s passion for the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned soccer fan or just starting your journey, the Beginner’s Guide to the Argentine Primera Division offers a comprehensive overview of this captivating league.
