Taiwanese broadcaster uses '64' reference during World Cup broadcast, countering Chinese misinformation

During a World Cup qualifying match broadcast, Taiwanese sports channel ELTA displayed a sign reading "64," a move that has ignited widespread discussion and interpretation online. The number "64" is globally recognized as a veiled reference to the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, a topic heavily censored on mainland China.

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64 games remaining, this number is very significant. Everyone quickly take a screenshot. It proves that you can watch the FIFA World Cup broadcast in Taiwan.

The incident occurred during ELTA's broadcast of the Egypt versus New Zealand match. After reporting the game's outcome, senior sports anchor Hong Zhi-wei presented a board with the number "64," emphasizing its "very significant" meaning and encouraging viewers to screenshot it. He alluded to the number being less likely to appear in "certain places," a clear nod to Chinese censorship.

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ELTA, my big brother!

This symbolic gesture is widely believed to be a response to a coordinated misinformation campaign originating from mainland China. Reports indicate that numerous Chinese netizens, influencers, and state-affiliated accounts have been spreading false claims that Taiwan is unable to broadcast or view the World Cup. This narrative has been amplified on various social media platforms, including Weibo, Douyin, and Threads.

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The anchor is so crazy and funny.

Taiwanese viewers and netizens have largely praised ELTA's "brilliant move," interpreting it as a clever and humorous way to counter the "fake news" and assert Taiwan's broadcasting rights. The use of "64" serves as a potent symbol, highlighting the stark contrast between Taiwan's open media environment and mainland China's strict censorship regime. Many see it as a demonstration of Taiwanese humor and a rejection of politically charged narratives surrounding sports viewership.

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Manual version anti-piracy watermark.