Passarella's Anniversary Video Sparks Outrage With Blue Sweater and Fernet

Former River Plate president Daniel Passarella ignited a social media firestorm with a video celebrating the club's 125th anniversary, his own 73rd birthday, and Argentina's May 25th Revolution. However, his choice of attire and background elements drew sharp criticism from a segment of the fanbase, particularly in the wake of River's recent 3-2 defeat to Belgrano in the Apertura 2026 final.

Passarella appeared in a light blue sweater, a color many River supporters deemed inappropriate given the team's recent loss to Belgrano. This particular opponent holds a painful history for River fans, as Belgrano was responsible for the club's historic relegation to the second division in 2011, a period when Passarella served as club president. Adding to the perceived insensitivity, a bottle of fernet, a drink often associated with Córdoba (Belgrano's home province), was visible in the background.

While some users suggested Passarella's attire was a nod to the colors of the Argentine cockade, celebrating the national holiday, this explanation did little to appease disgruntled fans. The timing of the video, so soon after a significant final loss, amplified the criticism. The article also briefly recounts the Apertura 2026 final itself, where Belgrano secured their first league title by defeating River Plate.

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May 25th is a very special day for me. Not only because of the Revolution, but also for the anniversary of River Plate and my 73rd birthday. Thank you to all who believed in me and accompanied me. Stay tuned, because soon you will understand many things.