‘Zidane headbutt’ poster ad causes a stir
Austrian advertisement watchdogs revealed plans to ban a betting companys poster ad over fears it could spark violence among football fans.The campaign shows a crew-cut man wearing a white shirt head-butting a car-park attendants chest, a scene carrying striking resemblance to Zinedine Zidanes attack against Marco Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup final.The French midfielder retired after being sent off for ramming his head against the chest of his opponent in the match against Italy in Berlin in the tournament four years ago. World champion Materazzi reportedly made Zidane see red by insulting his sister.Austrian online betting firm bet-at-home is confronted with criticism by the Austrian advertisement council after presenting its new campaign named “Das Leben ist ein Spiel!” (Lifes a game!) recently.The institution expressed fears the ad could lead to violent attacks against officials, especially as thousands of fans gather in pubs and at open air parties to watch their favourite teams play in the World Cup.Marketing watchdogs also claimed the campaigns parking attendant bears resemblance to a police officer due to his uniform.Bet-at-home refused to comment on the accusations. The company caused a stir two years ago when its posters showed a young couples French kissing. While the mans face was painted in Germanys colours, the young woman wore the Austrian red-white-red.Officials feared at that time the campaign could lead to conflicts among Austrian and German fans as their teams clashed in the Euro2008.The Austrian team were knocked out by their rivals 0-1 in the group stage match. Germany marched on into the final where they lost against Spain while tournament co-hosts Austria only garnered one point in their three group stage matches.