The Premier League, the passion of Mauritians
Many are not aware that football forms an integral part of the Mauritian culture. The English Premier League is especially appreciated by Mauritians. This passion for the English Championship has been passed on from generation to generation.
It was my father who indirectly influenced my love for this sport. Seeing his excitement every week whilst watching matches on the television was strangely pleasing. Now I find myself in the same boat, jumping with joy in front of my tv screen whilst encouraging my favourite team. Clearly I also know of several Mauritians who have fallen in love with the sport the same way I did.
Mauritians will follow their favourite team’s matches despite the 4 hour time difference with the UK. We willingly go with less hours of sleep so we can stay awake and watch until 2 am in the morning. All so we can encourage players who are separated from us by more than 9000 km. This is a true testament of love!!
Unfortunately due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the premier league was forced to take a 3 months’ break. Needless to speak of my disappointment when I learnt this terrible news! The only thing important at this time, was on which date the competition would once again grace my screen. However looking back, this was the best decision at the time to slow the spread of the virus.
