Just after the end of the workday in Liverpool’s business district on Wednesday afternoon, a man with a tattoo spanning his neck joined a group of approximately 200 protestors outside the city’s prominent civic building. This man, named Chris Sky, had a striking appearance with aviator glasses, white teeth, and peroxide hair, resembling a Las Vegas timeshare salesman. He had gathered other well-known individuals like Rickie Lambert, a former Liverpool and England forward, to attend the rally without revealing its special guest.
On the other side of the road, there was another group protesting against fascism. For about thirty minutes, two individuals with megaphones used the busy road as a barrier between ideologies, as cars passed by and bewildered commuters tried to make their way home. While the anti-fascists shouted about Nazis and the real issues the residents of Liverpool should be protesting against, the “freedom” movement stood behind yellow signs urging people to question everything and let go of denial. There was also a warning on the signs that read, “15-minute neighborhoods will be your prison.”
The main point of contention at the rally was Liverpool’s alleged plan to become a “15-minute city,” which would essentially segregate districts in the name of climate change. Chris Sky, who gained prominence as an online agitator during the Covid-19 pandemic, spoke at the rally making unsubstantiated claims about the return of Covid-19, governments weaponizing climate change to control freedoms, and a hidden LGBT agenda.
Despite not speaking at the event, Rickie Lambert was present, listening to the speeches. He, along with other high-profile individuals like Matt Le Tissier, Dejan Lovren, and Iker Casillas, have shared controversial views and conspiracy theories on social media. The psychologist suggests that athletes may be particularly susceptible to conspiracy theories due to the nature of their careers, where they constantly face threats and strive for achievement.
These conspiracy theories can take root in any sector of society, but sportspeople, including footballers, may be more vulnerable. The psychologist explains that conspiracy theories give people a sense of purpose and achievement, triggering the release of chemicals like serotonin and dopamine that make them feel better. Sportspeople, who already face constant threats and pressure to perform, may be drawn to these theories as they seek meaning and control over their lives.
In conclusion, sportspeople, specifically footballers, may be more susceptible to conspiracy theories due to the pressures they face in their careers. These theories give them a sense of purpose and achievement, which can be appealing in their highly demanding environment. However, it is important to approach such theories critically and rely on factual information.