Spain and Holland women’s footballers filmed mocking haka

Two World Cup heavyweights have been filmed mocking the iconic haka, getting slammed on social media for the insensitivity.

The Football Ferns performing the Haka at the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup in Germany. Picture: Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The Women’s World Cup is still more than a week away but already teams are being warned about respecting local and international cultures after video of Spanish and Dutch players mocking the haka appeared online.

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Vision of the group attempting the traditional Maori act appeared on social media momentarily before being taken down.

Players were seen laughing and jumping in the air saying “We are already acclimatised”.

According to reports, the video was taken at Spain’s first practice in New Zealand where they are based before the tournament kicks-off next week.

Spain open their campaign against Costa Rica on June 21 in Wellington and the clip will do little to earn them a favourable crowd.

the spanish and dutch players who disrespected haka need to educate themselves and issue an apology. to go to a country, be welcomed with open arms, and then mock māori culture is so awful.

— meg 🇫🇷/🇭🇹🇲🇦 (@frawnts) July 9, 2023

They’re not the only side being accused of cultural insensitivities after video of a Dutch player imitating the ceremonial dance during a training session was shared online.

FIFA distanced themselves from the pre-tournament incidents saying in a statement “as this is a team matter we won’t be making any comment”.

Originally published as Spain and Holland women’s footballers filmed mocking haka