The Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) has called out Nike for an animated promotional video posted online before the World Cup in Brazil, urging leaders of the shoe company to have the ad removed because its content is anti-Semitic.
In the video, titled "The Last Game," animated international soccer stars compete against evil clones who wear uniforms bearing a logo that looks like the Jewish Star of David.
Additionally, the background of the video includes images of a white rectangle with the same Star-of-David-like image in the center – resembling the Israeli flag, but without the blue stripes.
“Some of the animated soccer stars in the video – i.e., the ‘good guys’ – are wearing shirts with a ‘Fly Emirates’ logo and a ‘Qatar Airways’ logo, which must mean that these Arab airlines co-sponsored the video. It is no secret that the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have a deeply troubling history of anti-Semitism and hostility to Israel,” ZOA leaders wrote in a letter to Nike Chairman Philip H. Knight and President & CEO Mark Parker.
Nike has dismissed accusations that the video is anti-Semitic, despite complaints from ZOA, the Israeli Knesset, the World Zionist Organization, and general viewers. The company claims that the controversial logos in the ad were intended to represent a soccer ball.
Watch the video and tell us in the comment section below if you think the video is anti-Semitic.
(269) Anonymous, November 29, 2020 2:41 AM
no idea why the symbol of the "enemy team ad a star logo. Totally not necessary.
(268) Baruch, September 12, 2020 2:11 PM
yes, it is.
Of all the forms/shapes Nike could have chosen, they picked the one that certainly resembles the Magen David from a distance; so yes, it is anti-Semitic.
(267) Anonymous, January 26, 2018 3:07 AM
yes this video is anti-semitic and gross
hi.. I started my search because I saw a story today on aol I believe which showed a Palestinian man with a sling shot with a rock in it ready to throw at Israeli soldiers . due to Trumps latest moves of moving the embassy ... the Palestinian young man had an Adidas top on... ??? which I though so odd..so I started researches if Adidas had anti Semitic ties.. so what I found out appears there is.. no
(266) Hilda, July 18, 2016 10:48 PM
No. I cant see the magen dovid symbol. it looks to me like an innocent football!
(265) Anonymous, May 11, 2016 12:08 AM
Not Anti-Semitic
While one can view the logo as a star of David, a soccer ball is clearly indicated. The Fly Emirates ad on the player's shirt is authentic. Many of the European teams unfortunately are being sponsored by Arabs. I personally do not feel that the ad is anti-Semitic.
(264) Ellen, May 8, 2016 2:27 AM
There's no doubt...
that the emblem on the "clones" looks exactly like a Mogen David from a distance. It is also no coincidence that a popular belief currently making a huge comeback on the internet is that the Jews are some kind of "hybrid" put in place to control the world. (If you think I'm joking, check out David Ick and other weird conspiracy theorists on this no so new idea. Nike is irresponsible at best and at worst is attempting to appeal to this lower nature of a great many football fans by feeding this craziness in order to make money. Either way, it DOES make me uncomfortable.
(263) Steve Rogers, May 4, 2016 12:54 PM
Nike Marketing Executives Join the Dark Side
It is hard to believe that there are people in marketing who can not tell that the Magen David symbol - Shield of David - is a universally recognized symbol of Jewry. Now if an ordinary person did not know this, then it might be that they are ignorant, but professionals not knowing this is unbelievable. That means the Nike upper management is supporting the marketing department's decision to join the Dark side. Well those who bless the Hebrews will be blessed.... Nike has had a good run on the stock market. It is time to short their stock.
(262) Zack, February 4, 2016 5:53 PM
Not Jewish Stars
The only reason the logos look like jewish stars in the above video is that it is a poor quality copy of the video. If you look up "Nike risk everything" on YouTube, you will see in higher quality videos that the logos are clearly and undeniably soccer balls.
Zack, February 4, 2016 6:15 PM
Actually I'm not so sure
I just wrote the above comment, but after seeing the video a few more times, even with better quality videos the logo looks way too much like a Jewish Star for Nike to publish it. It is not as bad as it seems in low quality, but it is still inexcusable.
(261) Barry Cutler, August 23, 2015 6:49 PM
The is no question that the symbol of the clones is the star of David
There is no doubt that the intent of this commercial was to represent the clones as Jewish. Thus there is no doubt that this commercial is anti- Semitic.
(260) Martin Leaf, October 26, 2014 12:55 PM
anti-Semitism for profit
Just the facts mam
http://youtu.be/1GVsAwqiTWw
(259) Chana, October 1, 2014 9:26 PM
Definitely anti-semitic
definitely anti-semitic
(258) yonit, September 29, 2014 4:26 PM
very disgusting NIKE
in the beginning i was sure that the ad was going to be made dramatic but the truth is it is so obvious that it looks like a Jewish Star - I dont believe for one minute that noone noticed at NIKE - tell them to change it to a cross - ets see if they would dare - NIKE you are so disgusting - will try not to buy NIKE - go addidas!!!
(257) Beverly Margolis-Kurtin, September 4, 2014 2:36 AM
In a word
Duh!
At first, the logos on the chests looked like the kind of gear that is used in computers as "settings." But it turned out to be six-pointed stars. That, plus the very obvious Star of David in the background is plain old Jew hate.
I'd not buy Nike if I had to.
It is bad enough that we get bad press from the world for our response to Gaza, but to have this, too, that's way too much. Isn't hate wonderful?
(256) LP Manchester, August 29, 2014 9:37 AM
Fashion marketing= superb propoganda.
Zara,JCrew,Galiano and now Nike. It's a warning.... Addiction to fashion "Labels" and worshipping football "Idols" WILL cause the destruction of the Jewish people. Wake up and smell the humous guys. We all need to recognise where our addictions lie and change. Start fighting the enemy within if you want to win the battle.
(255) Sabus, August 10, 2014 9:20 AM
Smart Observation
This video depicts Nike as a devilish and antisemitic firm if they don,t recall or go ahead to defend this video. On watching this one can understand that Nike and it colleagues acted with a sense of purpose. Thanks a lot for observing this earlier.
(254) John Lancellotti, July 30, 2014 6:16 AM
reply to piece.
It's way too long. Because of its length, I just didn't care. I didn't read it. Best always, John R.
(253) Batsheva katina, July 25, 2014 9:41 PM
The symbol is a soccer all
I went shopping today and because of this article did not buy Nike sneakers. I decided to watch the advertisement again and paused it when they showed the clones. The symbol is a soccerball. From a distance you don't see the dark circles of the ball so it's left looking like a star. But when you look close it is a ball. Are we so sure that this video is meant to put down the Jews?
(252) Anonymous, July 22, 2014 4:41 PM
Conditioning of the Mind
This is subliminal conditioning of the subconscious with the use of symbols - just like Calvin Klein and just like Nazi regime propaganda in the 1930s. It's just an excuse to say no its not star of david its a soccer ball. Why isn't it round? why is it conveniently shaped like a six pointed star instead of a ball?
To an observer unfamiliar with Israel or Jews this works most effectively because they don't actively see Israel they just see the bad guy clones. Then down the road when they come across news about Israel for example they feel a negative feeling towards the Magen David or Israeli flag or Jews and they aren't even aware of where it came from.
This evil kind of programming is going on all over the world and this time it is targeting Israel and Jews.
Amichai, August 13, 2014 11:24 AM
couldn't explain it any better.
It's too convenient to say it's not the Jewish Star.The fact that they won't just apologize diplomatically even if they don't mean it is very typical of the general climate in the world. Seems like what was for awhile considered not politically correct, to voice anti semitic opinions out loud, has once again become a part of our world. In some ways it makes it just a little easier to know who really hates us. I think it's a reminder to us all that we must always remember and take pride in our Judaism in the most humble way and not hate the world but rather be realistic in our understanding the situation while continuing to strengthen our identity and not assimilating into the world but rather becoming a Beacon of light and G-dly love first within ourselves, our communities, cities and the whole Jewish nation and then to the whole world! May we all have that merit!!
(251) Anonymous, July 22, 2014 12:04 PM
I can't tell the details of the Nike logo but of all the recognizable symbols in the world is the Mogen David, and they had to choose that one! It causes controversy, and we have enough of that without sporting goods getting into the act.
I think we Jews need to be alerted not to buy any Nike products until this symbol is removed. Let them use the Moslem Crescent and see what the reaction is!
(250) Bonnie Miller, July 20, 2014 10:53 PM
This advertisement is anti-semitic!
Yes, it may be a soccer ball but it is turned to intentionally resemble the Star of David. And the fact the it is on the uniform of the "bad guys" and the "good guys" shirts bear Arab airline logos tells me that the message is definitely Anti-Semitic!!! Fess up and apologize Nike or you are going to loose a lot of customers! Me included. No I am not Jewish but this is just wrong! Especially with what is going on in Israel these days.
(249) Santiago Alzate, July 20, 2014 6:35 PM
Antisemitic
Definitely antisemitic. Not buying Nike anymore.
(248) Raphaelle Do, July 20, 2014 9:35 AM
Counter Point!
The logo is not a Star of David. It is a Soccer Ball.
The evil clones play it as a job but the humans (all other sports enthusiastes play the game they like and are good at. Message of the Ad clip:
You only live once, there is no second chance if you do not play the sport you like. Why only soccer??
Ad is against the tyranny of the World Cup. Sort of send off for the event.
(247) Anonymous, July 19, 2014 10:46 PM
The antisemitism is definitively there.
I did not notice the David Star on their uniforms until I watched closely. The commercial does have a subliminal or underline strong statement of portraying Israel as bully or unstoppable. we should not underestimate the effect of this message on the millions of viewers that watch a conglomerate of players, which included the Emirates defeat this bully. Ironically the commercial shot himself on the foot when the real story is that Germany defeated the Brazilian, the so called best players of the world in his own court 7 to 1! This put tears in many little and grown men. They did not make it to the finals, but the Maccabees did and WON!
(246) Jay, July 19, 2014 9:12 PM
Yes
It seems to me that the Star is clearly not the star of David. That said, anyone seeing the add at regular speed would either subliminally or conciously associate it with this Jewish Symbol. If Nike did not have the intent to be anti-semetic this may be an excuse. However, whoever produced and ordered the display of the "soccer" ball is either stupid or, at the other end of the spectrum Anti-Semetic. How on earth do you call the symbol used in the commercial as being a soccer ball. A ridiculous contention. That's why I vote that this was anti-semetic.
(245) baruch, July 18, 2014 8:58 PM
ha!
what? ha! antisemtic? thats rich! it talks about how the clones take no risks. look at the torah. reead it! look at the tanach. JEWS ARE KNOWN FOR TAKING RISKS. GIDONE took risks, favid, yehuda hannassi took risks, avraham took risks, rav ashi took risks, moshe rabainu took risks, israil takes risks...etc. plus, it looked nothing like a magen david. antisemetic? seriusly? and why are we even worrying about this? why? why, when israil is at war, and a shul was burned in paris, and so many other crisises,a re we worrying about THIS? why are we worrying about if some shoe company made a controversial advertisement?
(244) ss, July 18, 2014 6:19 PM
Nike goes for business from anti-semites
It's all about market share. I watched the commercial version and I did not notice. But Nike is going after the anti-Semitic soccer fan for business. The type of fans that boo the "Jewish" team in England or the soccer fans in Muslim countries. Sad. Really Sad. Well, Nike does not make anything that Adidas does not make just as well.
(243) Anonymous, July 18, 2014 3:37 PM
I will never buy Nike again!
(242) sheila, July 18, 2014 3:24 PM
obsurd
of course this is anti Semitic. A soccer ball is round not the shape of a Magen David. Who at Nike thought this was a good idea? A propaganda to demonize Israel. It starts like this, thinly veiled then more blatant.
(241) Victor dePicciotto, July 18, 2014 2:49 PM
As though written, produced, directed by one Josef Goebbles.
The evil team should have been wearing swastikas or the double 'S' lightening symbols of the SS. Whoever put this together could not have possibly not noticed the design for the bad guys WAS the Star of David. The peiople who create these deal in imagry and subliminal manipulation. It a was no fluke. It was wanton and deliberate and malicious and as disgusting an attempt to demonize Jews as anything produced by the vilest Nazi criminal. Who ever was responsible should be sentenced to living amongst his kind with a yellow Jewish star embroided on his neanderthal-like forehead.
And I might add that it had the full complicity of Nike who may well be using this as a prelude to their introduction of a line of hob-nailed boots complete with crossed swishes. Hey, that would go great with a line of black shirts and peaked caps with a skull and cross bones a la theWaffen SS. Those clever rascals are developing a new following for a whole new world era with the motto: Today the sports world, tomorrow whole world." I'm really getting into this now. Someone please stop me. Please!
Other than that I think the video was cute and heart- warming.
(240) Anonymous, July 18, 2014 1:18 PM
Wanted to throw up!! Extremely and thoroughly Anti-Semitic!!
This putrid, disgusting, nazi-like propoganda video made me feel as if I was back in the late 1930's and '40's watching a pre-holocaust propaganda film!!
Not only are the graphics obviously anti-semitic, but the quick images flashed on the screen are as well, and the verbal script is horrendously anti-semitic!!
Not buying ANYTHING Nike and will look up its subsidiaries (if any) and sharing, sharing, sharing this!!
Abhorent and deliberate in appearance!!
My holocaust survivor father would turn over in his grave!!
(239) Elizabeth Stewart, July 18, 2014 9:55 AM
Appalling
Truly appalling. Not a coincidence at all that the alleged "soccer ball" looks like a Star of David, and look who's financing the whole thing - there's a flash of sign saying "Fly Emirates". Not a coincidence.
(238) Barbara, July 18, 2014 3:35 AM
Absolutely anti-Semitic
Absolutely anti-Semitic. I will never buy their products again.
(237) m jassem, July 18, 2014 2:51 AM
nike is anti semetic
How could they. Allow this!
(236) yitzaleh Hou, July 18, 2014 2:43 AM
Totally NOT
Quit playing the liberal "I'm a victim" game. it's a soccer ball. Yes, from some angles it looks coincidentally like a Magen David, But from other scenes not at all. (And even if one of the creators had anti-Semitic intentions it makes us look vulnerable for even caring.) Let's focus on bigger issues.
Anonymous, July 18, 2014 3:02 PM
Are you kidding?
You refer to "us" as though you were Jewish and suggesting this not be taken seriously. Firstly, the brand is MOgan David and what could be a bigger issue than a snake under the covers?
Robert Lopez, July 19, 2014 10:09 AM
Pick your battles
It seems possible, but I think there are far more glaring and dangerous examples of bias and hatred against Jews today. I'm more worried about what's going on at the home-front right now.
Dusan Milutinovic, July 19, 2014 4:11 PM
accidentally at worst
I don't think it was intentionally targeting any kind of anti-Semitic message. I agree that the stylized symbol looks too much like a Magen David but the tenor of the video doesn't give that impression to me.
Keep in mind also, readers, that the question of an ultimate Jewish football team superior to the rest of the world also seems hardly likely to enter the minds of the creators given the way sentiment is these days.
Another thing from this video: the 'bad guy' evil genius appears more Aryan or Scandinavian than Jewish himself, so it should be unlikely that his superteam and symbols would be connected at all to Israel or things Jewish.
(235) Anonymous, July 18, 2014 12:09 AM
Wow, this one is right on the middle of the borderline
First of all, as a 20 veteran of the advertising business, I can tell you sometimes even things that in hindsight should have been seen as immediately problematic with a campaign never once raise a red flag along the development process. People just get too close to it. They can't see it. Sometimes even focus groups don't see it. Then it goes on air and all hell breaks loose.
That said, the appearance what seems to be a stylized graphic of a cog/sprocket/soccer ball (to represent a mechanized soccer force of robots) is shockingly similar to a Star Of David in a lot of the scenes. At least to my Jewish eyes. Some closeups of it on the uniforms are clearly soccerballs, at wider shots not nearly so clear.
Compounding the problem, it appears even more Jewish at lower resolution as I viewed it here. And the big screens in the stadium with the 'star' right in the centre like the Israeli flag make one think the worst.
That all said, this whole story doesn't seem to be riding on any currently existing trope about Jews wrecking soccer for the world. I mean, I haven't heard that one. Not that facts stop an anti-Semite, but unlike confirmed anti-semitic ex-Pink Floyd frontman Rogers Waters who had concert animation showing Jewish Stars falling from a plane like bombs (fanning the cannard of Jewish warmongering and aggression) I can't see a similar parallel here. The bots don't look like Jewish charecitures either. It's just a problem with this symbol.
The one truth here though, whether the creators intended it or not, is that Israel stands apart from the nations. What's not true is that we stand as an adversary or opponent as shown in this ad. It would be nice if the world stopped thinking of us that way.
Nike would be wise to revise this work to make the symbol absolutley clearly not a Jewish Star.
Victor dePicciotto, July 18, 2014 2:58 PM
Is this guy kidding or smoking something?
Twenty years in advertising and you are not aware of the use of subliminal images to create a thirst or a desire for something. Or are you just cranking everyone's chain being stupidly clever. It is stupid, but not very clever. I don't usually resport to name calling, but a Nazi is the lowest form of life, and you are indeed stupid, Jew or not.
Incidently, were you cashiered out of advertising or just quit to get away from being humiliated?
Anonymous, July 26, 2014 3:25 AM
Wow, that was toxic
I'm not sure if you're calling me a Nazi, stupid, or both. Whichever it is, I'm sorry you can't seem to process my points properly.
Incidentally, if it's truly 'subliminal' no one would notice it. So why are you and I talking about how it's so obvious. Fail.
(234) sharon, July 17, 2014 10:16 PM
Disgusting and shameful
How dare they use such obviously anti semitic imagery and then refuse to take responsabilty!! This should go to court!! Btw, i have never bought nike!!!
Anonymous, July 18, 2014 3:10 PM
They dare because they can.
No one is really paying any attention to the rise of global anti-Semitism. No one paid attention to who did what to the Armenians (as was noted by Der Fuehrer) and so why should anyone pay attention now? The new Nazi doesn't eschew religion, but rather it embraces a form of it. (The first 'it' refers to Nazi not being human.)
(233) Gale, July 17, 2014 8:24 PM
very anti semitic
very anti-semitic. No longer purchasing anything by nike
(232) Daisy harari Mayer, July 17, 2014 8:16 PM
The World Cup
Certenlly bad wha nike has to e this design like our Magen David. way, thay have to make another one, it is well done to take it over.we are from rio brasil and we don tr like everything coming from Europe here. The movie is horrible they are playing with the brasiliiens players etc etc it is horrible
(231) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 7:35 PM
Anti-Jewish-YES!
Although the logo does not in every depiction look like the Star of David, it happens often enough in this video to be suspect. Never could afford brand new Nike-wouldn't buy anything Nike even in a thrift store now...!
(230) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 7:16 PM
Maybe just pro-soccer?
I understand why people think this is anti-semitic but the "Star of David" in the video is also a soccer ball. On the other hand, the "soccer ball" in the background does look like the Israeli flag.
(229) viola roogers, July 17, 2014 6:48 PM
definately anti-semetic
the whole video is so anti-Israel. Why are they doing this?
Anonymous, July 17, 2014 8:42 PM
Nike is boycotted by many for being on the list of companies that support Israel. It's ironic for them to do such a think except if they want business in the Arab world or get some publicity through this controversy.
(228) Suzanne, July 17, 2014 6:32 PM
It comes again
Extremely antisemitic. Nike will never get my business again.
(227) Ra'anan, July 17, 2014 4:48 PM
subliminal, "Roswell" series did the same on pilot, but then...
dropped it afterward, there it was positive, here, it is negative. Here, the whole world wants to "SAVE" soccer & overcome that "abnormal people," the clones who wear something that can be seen as the Star of David. Even w/o any anti-Semitism, that clip had an eerie feel.
(226) Megala, July 17, 2014 4:41 PM
Problematic on several levels
How nice that the inflated prices for their products help fund this sort of shameful propaganda. For anyone on the fence, please note that the clones are the only ones with a real logo which calls even more attention to it. Weirdly, it's a backhanded compliment to the Israeli Army's organization and accomplishments, yet this commercial is entirely heinous.
(225) chaplain t, July 17, 2014 3:39 PM
Yep. Definitely anti-Israel and anti-Jewish
Yep. Definitely anti- anything or anyone identifying with the Star of David
(224) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 3:15 PM
OMG
I am sick to my stomach--the blatant anti-semitism of the NIKE video is outrageous. Trust me, I will NEVER buy NIKE again!
(223) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 3:13 PM
Yup. It's written all over it.
I have to say it's anti-Israel over and over again. Non-stop.
(222) Hwag, July 17, 2014 2:45 PM
not anti-semitic
If you play it backwards it says that Paul is dead too....stupid
(221) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 2:42 PM
Shame to Nike !
If this is not anti-Semitic, and being corrupt to the bones,
Then I do not know what the Management at Nike is thinking.
(220) hillel, July 17, 2014 2:38 PM
It's suspicious
This won't change my behavior since I never liked Nike and their disgusting "Just Do It" ads and their extreme image based culture. I went to Foot Locker recently and didn't even recognize it anymore. It's become a designer store with mostly Nikes. I won't be shopping there anymore.
(219) Linda, July 17, 2014 2:06 PM
This is chilling.
What are people thinking?
(218) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 1:55 PM
No! The mind sees what the mind wants to see!
Take a look at the settings icon on your cell phone, it has the same shape as the soccer ball shown in the video, is this also anti-Semitic?
(217) tom d. maverick, July 17, 2014 1:42 PM
The Nike video most definitely smacks of anti-semitism, I will be giving Reebok my business for the future.
(216) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 11:46 AM
Nazi SS Death's head hat device
A skull with the nike symbol on the forehead looking like the Nazi SS death's head hat device is how the video starts. From the first second this video is pure evil!
(215) craig, July 17, 2014 10:51 AM
Who at Nike approved this?
This is anti Israel.
(214) Joyce Elais, July 17, 2014 5:21 AM
Definitely Anti Semetic
No more Nike products will be purchased in this household.
The Fly Emirates on the T shirt says it all.
(213) Daniel, July 17, 2014 4:20 AM
No
Who's being a little too sensitive here? This is not an anti-Semitic piece at all. Keep it real.
(212) Meshugena, July 17, 2014 4:15 AM
Short term Memory loss...the world in denile
Really? Does the world forget so easily...especially the Jews themselves? Anti-semetic is certainly how I perceived the video, and I'm pretty open minded!
Take note , The French Jews are seeing the warning signs. Thank G-d many are starting to leave the country. Yes, that may be what the Muslim community strives for...screw them ! They want France they can have it!
They and every last Jew in the world should agree , come and get us. For every one of ours you kill we put 100 of you in the morgue. Never again will the Jews of this world stand by passively to be lead to the slaughter chamber.
We will take the entire region with us!! Unfortunately, this makes winning difficult for every one of the people living in the region. However, WE WILL SURVIVE!!
PHOTO COPY THAT!!!!
(211) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 4:03 AM
that is NOT a soccer ball
just did a google search for soccer ball images and icons...almost EXCLUSIVELY, they either feature a five point stars - NOT SIX - or skew the pattern on the ball so that it doesn't even feature any sort of a star at all...
(210) michelle schiffman, July 17, 2014 3:40 AM
100% anti-semitic pro-palestinian propoganda
the star of david is rampant throughout this ad, not just on the evil clone uniforms, but in all kinds of background places, fading in and out of sight, in subtle ways but just enough to be noticeable. Also, the motivational speech given to the "originals", to take back what is theirs and to fight to the death... this is 100% pro-palestinian anti-semitic propaganda. and for all the people who have commented that this isn't worth fighting against - wake up! this kind of covert anti-semitism is the most effective, its subtlety is exactly why its the most powerful, that's exactly how media brainwashing works, it's what we learn in advertising 101...make the message barely perceptible, not strong enough to be noticed by the conscious mind but strong enough to be noticed by the subconscious mind, as the subconscious is not resistant or combative to new ideas the way the conscious mind might be, it simply registers them and integrates them into your psyche without conscious recognition. This ad has to be pulled.
(209) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 3:10 AM
"yesh"
"exodus 20:26"
(208) Simon, July 17, 2014 2:12 AM
Nike ...
Good Bye to you. You're no longer invited into my home nor closets! You're a despicable company and of no use to me nor my family...
(207) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 2:06 AM
SENSELESS
IS ANTI SEMITISM A ONE WAY STREET LEADING TO A DEAD END? OR IS ANTI SEMITISM A GRAND BOULEVARD WITH ANTI SEMITISM RUNNING IN EITHER DIRECTION. IF A MUSLIM LOOKS AT A JEW IN WHAT THE JEW PERCEIVES AS UNFAVORABLE, THAT IS CONSIDERED ANTI SEMITIC. THIS FROM A MUSLIM THAT IS MORE SEMITIC THAN THE MAJORITY OF JEWS. BUT WHEN THE SAME ACT OR WORSE IS PERFORMED BY A JEW, IT IS NOT ANTI SEMITIC, IT IS CONSIDERED KOSHER. AT LEAST NINETY EIGHT PERCENT OF THE SEMITIC PEOPLE ARE MUSLIMS, PERHAPS ANOTHER PHRASE SHOULD BE USED TO DENOTE JEWISH DISPLEASURE.
(206) Alvin, July 17, 2014 1:27 AM
As they say...
When the Jews don't make kiddush, the nations make havdala.
(205) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 12:35 AM
ok. let me get this straight.
what are you talking about? it looks nothing like a magen david. it is a soccer ball. second of all, i see no resembalance to a magen david whatsoever.
jews are known for taking risks. tahts what yehuda hanassi did. thats what rambam did. thats what the chassidim did. thats what avraham avinu did. thats what the marranos did. thats what the exiles of spain did. thats what we did living in hostile countries every day did. thats what we did when we fought canaan. thats what gidone did. thats what shimshon, moshe, shraga fieval, yosef karo, rashi, and virtualy every single jew did.
are you going to suggest that this video is anti-semetic.
(204) David Burger, July 16, 2014 11:06 PM
How could they not see it?
If the initial impulse was not antisemitic, how could the powers -that-be at Nike not see that it would be used for antisemitic purposes? So, of course it's antisemitic.
(203) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 10:30 PM
It looks like Nike screwed up
This certainly looks like overt anti-semitism
(202) ES, July 16, 2014 9:18 PM
Looks suspect
Do a Google search for a white and black soccer ball and you'll notice the difference. A traditional ball has five-sided black panels. The one in this video has six-sided black panels which create the effect of the Star of David. I think it's either artistic creativity or a subliminal message of Anti-Semitism. I don't believe the sponsors on the Jersey's got a dime for the commercial. It's just Nike trying to be authentic by representing the players' club jerseys as they really are. Teams in Europe all have sponsorships tagged on the chest of the jersey. In the end is it Anti-Semitic? It definitely makes for a good conspiracy story.
(201) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 9:11 PM
slightly anti semitic for sure
Very sad that a great company and a great event has to be tarnished by this ad that many children probably watched.
(200) Barbara, July 16, 2014 9:10 PM
Anti=Semitic
Two runners in my family. We will not be buying Nike
(199) catherine, July 16, 2014 8:08 PM
fightt anti semitism
Standing with you Israel from the United Kingdom/ great britain.
(198) rochelle, July 16, 2014 7:53 PM
can it be viewed as anti-semetic? Absolutely, because of the symbolism on the shirts, what looks like the Star of David. Is it anti-semetic? It is a very close call. Nike can possibly get away with it this time, but should be very careful in the future. They should definitely pull their commercial.
(197) RonB, July 16, 2014 7:39 PM
Don't think so
The so called similarity to the star of David also resembles a gear with six teeth. If it would have had eight teeth we'd have had to look for something else to be Jewish like. Nah... Why accuse others as if we knew what they must be thinking. It's so not Jewish to accuse before investigating deep enough to have an actual confession.
(196) deena, July 16, 2014 7:37 PM
I agree w/ Esther G., but this is not the only ad out there
Ever hearrd of advertising done so discretely that it actually brainwashes you? Anti-semites are great at advertising so discretely in so many different venues, that their message is spread across the globe in many different violent ways.
YOU many not see the damage, but after millions see little tiny arrows pointing to the Jews, you bet they'll take up their bows and shoot. It's happened too many times to count.
May Hashem Protect His Nation.
(195) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 7:32 PM
and now nike, when does it end .
yes
(194) catherine, July 16, 2014 6:55 PM
anti semetic
This video is anti semetic. The sign deliberatly resembles the Star of David. It is insinuating the Jews are not human biengs. The Jews are special people and hold a special place in my heart. The Jews exhibit more humanity than the people who seek to destroy them. There are many people who reject the lies spread by the arabs. I stand with Israel and defend her cause loudly and proudly. This advert should be removed from public viewing, if a video was released inciting hatred towards muslims something would be done. The lack of consideration for the feelings of the Jewish nation doesnt suprise me but it saddens me deeply. What a Blessing you have the Lord God of Israel defending you. Am Yisrael Chi :)
Renee, July 17, 2014 3:54 AM
Thank you, Catherine. During these incredibly troubling times, it is so important to know that there are non-Jews like you willing to speak up for us. While most of the world stands by in silence, anti-semitism and acts of violence agains the Jewish people continue to rise, I am happy to know that there are people like you, sa true friend of the 'Tribe'!
(193) doug, July 16, 2014 6:53 PM
Well....
It was a cool video. Very well done and funny.
Anti-Semitic? We'll never really know what the animators were thinking. But they could make a few changes.
Not our biggest issue though, as most people who would watch it are idiots anyway.
(192) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 6:23 PM
I can see anti Semitic overtones
While I can see how the logo could look like a soccer ball, I find it interesting how distinct the Magen David shape looks. You'd think if they genuinely just wanted it to look like a soccer ball, the outline of the circle would be more noticeable...
(191) Arnold, July 16, 2014 5:41 PM
Very Anti-semitic
Very Anti-semitic
(190) esther G., July 16, 2014 4:50 PM
of course it's anti-semitic but...
what else is new. Let's pick our fights. The video is inane, and will be seen by a miniscule amount of people. Arab players winning against what they perceive and are illustrated as evil Jews? Seriously? That's surprising to you? Like i said.. pick your battles. This one is just not worth it..
Anonymous, July 16, 2014 10:03 PM
Disappointed
Very disappointed that Nike would use such disgusting pretence. The world is becoming a very scary place
Very unhappy that tHere is so much hatred.
(189) Eduardo, July 16, 2014 2:52 PM
This video is anti-Israel
It is a pitty they use sports to attack ideologically.
(188) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 2:07 PM
The symbol and the characters are totally inappropriate in today's climate. Yes, it does look like a Magen David and should absolutely not be shown. Looks like anti semitism to me, or total insensitivity.
(187) efwefwf, July 16, 2014 1:59 PM
actually not anti semitic
the Qatar Airways and Fly Emirates logos have nothing to do with Nike but rather the teams the players play for whose jersey sponsors are Qatar Airways and Fly Emirates, not a problem with Nike. Barcelona and Paris St Germaine both have Arab sponsors so therefore their jerseys have these logos. nice try though
(186) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 12:23 PM
no- the symbol is like a ninja warrior
we can look into may logo's and pharses and turn them in ot
anti-semitizism
We need to move on --these kind of remarks to stop something b/c of loose interpertation is what causes confict.
(185) ESTHER, July 16, 2014 11:14 AM
Thank you Nike for showing us who you are.
The Jewish people are not destroyers of what the world loves i.e. football, they are the creators of so much of what makes life better in this world. Historically the Jews survive their enemies dont, Welcome to the club of those who wont defeat the Jews, only themselves.
(184) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 10:41 AM
If it were the other way around and islam was made to look like the bad guys, u know what would happen? Riots! Lynching of american diplomats! Thats who those murderers are.
(183) leolady, July 16, 2014 10:37 AM
Not a Star of David but a clone symbol
Bendu-inspired symbol used during the later stages of the Clone Wars in Star Wars movie. I don't think it has anything whatsoever to do with it. Jews don't own the symbol which pre-dated Jews as a nature symbol of unity, air, water, fire, wind, and spirit. Do your research, people.
Judy in Atlanta, July 16, 2014 12:41 PM
The Star of David, Israel and Jews
You're right, I don't know the history of the symbol. I grew up knowing it as designating a Jewish person, place, thing, or event. It is on the flag of Israel.
Don't forget the Nazis used the infamous yellow star to identify Jews. You cannot disassociate the Shield of King David and Jews.
As far as The Clone Wars, at least to me, it looks more like a sprocket which would be appropriate. Maybe that was the idea in the Nike ad, and they didn't want to infringe on copyright laws. If that's the case, and the similarity to the Jewish Star was unintentional, they should have been more thoughtful in the design. On the other hand, with the enormous growth in Anti-Semitism around the world today, and the popularity of soccer (yes, soccer), this is fuel to the fire of hate.
(182) Stan, July 16, 2014 9:02 AM
DEFINITELY STAR OF DAVID
This video is definitely against Israel and all of us Jews
Pathetic - Boycott the bastards
Put a pic of muhaamad and see the response
(181) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 8:31 AM
Nike
The only language Nike will understand is BOYCOTT. Let's all do it.
(180) Eli, July 16, 2014 7:53 AM
see 04:04 for example
see 04:04 for example .Poor old Ibrahimovic and Rooney dispossed and helpless in the face of the evil heartless star-of david wearing automaton. Look at the detail of the animation - right down to the tatoos on Rooney's arm. Nike cannot be so naive or imagine us to be either. Wish I'd noticed this this before . This is like the original subliminal "Drink Coca Cola advert" Hundreds of millions of people have seen this . Global antisemitism need look no further for a new Streicher (striker) -Nike have scored for them!
(179) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 7:48 AM
Its most definitely antis emetic
Makes me not want to buy Nike ever
(178) Leyla, July 16, 2014 7:16 AM
Overall impression is: The Star of David side must be defeated at all costs.
When there is a chance to take in the details of the 'enemy' logo, it is not a clearly defined Maagen David and it lacks the distinguishing detail. I could see, in one of the moments, how the advertisers could have passed it off as the markings of a soccer ball. But, while the images are very fleeting, they are projected in such a way that they catch the eye very dominantly, and the overall impression - subliminal as it is - strongly evokes the idea that the opposing clone side, the foe that must be beaten at all costs, is marked by the Star of David. The emblem on the backdrop, which is more consistently in view, is also highly suggestive of the Hebrew symbol.
(177) A.K.Krohn, July 16, 2014 7:12 AM
Hideous shilling
How could Nike not see the ugly anti-Israel propaganda in this ad? ( And I think we all know that "anti-Israel" is the new "anti-semitism." ) The worst thing about this kind of propaganda is that it is in a form that appeals most to children. I've avoided Nike whenever possible though that swoosh seems to be everywhere. Now, seeing such disgusting pandering to ignorant anti-Semites and referencing the wealthy funders of Israel haters Qatar and UAE as associated with the "good guys"...Nike is beyond the pale. The swoosh is as good as a swastika now. Shameful and socially reckless corporation. I wonder -- how about some of our own far more talented creative artists out there come up with a great comeback? Something devastatingly clever and destined to go viral.
(176) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 6:51 AM
clearly antisemitic.
No question that the "bad guys" have the Magen David insignia. Unquestionably anti-Semitic.
(175) Ruth Siegman, July 16, 2014 6:35 AM
Definitely antisemitic!
Why else would they choose the star of David, if not to try to show that Jews are inferior? This is a violent piece of propoganda which is likely to incite further acts of violence against Jews.
(174) Jeanne, July 16, 2014 5:55 AM
The logos too obvious
The logos on the jerseys looks just like the Star of David and the fly emirates was obvious as well. I will not be buying their product ever.
(173) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 5:42 AM
CRY BABIES
THE SIX POINTED STAR HAS BEEN AROUND LONGER THAN JUDAISM, LONGER THAN ZIONIST OR ANY OTHER ISM, RELIGIOUS OR OTHERWISE. I'M SURE THAT IF TOMORROW THE GLOWING SUN PATTER WERE TO CHANGE ITS SHAPE TO THAT OF A SEX POINTED STAR, EVERY JEW WOULD CRY "ANTI SEMITISM". IF, THE JEWS WANT TO BE SO SEPARATE AND SPECIAL, THEN LET THEM CREATE A SYMBOL THAT IS NEW AND UNSEEN, THEY CAN PATENT IT AND DEMAND EXCLUSIVITY, OTHER WISE STOP BORING THE WORLD WITH YOUR SO CALLED SENSITIVITY.
(172) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 5:19 AM
I'm not entirely sure what the Jews have to do with ruining the culture of soccer...Would they mind explaining?
(171) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 4:58 AM
deff weird
nice vid but if that's the only way they cud make a clone soccer ball....deff interesting how it really looked like a magen david, and how they portrayed the clones as becoming more and more and still beating them...
(170) Sarah, July 16, 2014 4:49 AM
It's pretty obvious
If you take a close-up look at the logo, it looks less like a star of David. But this video moves fast, and every time I saw it blur past me, it looked exactly like a star of David. I agree with the other commentors: definitely antisemitic.
(169) Muriel, July 16, 2014 3:54 AM
No doubt about what it is. Goodbye Nike for our family
(168) Ruth, July 16, 2014 3:34 AM
Blatantly anti-Semitic
Clearly equates the Jews with the forces of Evil out to destroy what the rest of the human race loves and values. Rallies the good guys to defeat the powerful Jewish forces. Disgusting. I will put the word out about Nike. There is nothing subliminal about this.
(167) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 3:25 AM
no doubt about it
If this video is not antisemitic, what is?
(166) L. Miller, July 16, 2014 3:12 AM
I think this video is absolutely anti-Semitic. The line referring to the team affiliated with the Star of David delivered before the game began said it all: "If they were human".
Horrifying, but I suppose that's how this video was intended- to incite action, and just look at the results.
Nazi Germany used such tactics not that long ago, and look where that led.
(165) Dahlia, July 16, 2014 3:01 AM
Contact Nike and give feedback
This was clearly a Star of David and the message was clear and offensive. I contacted Nikes helpline and passed along my message in a respectful but clear manner. They were not able to transfer me directly to someone in advertising, but will pass my message along to the advertising department. This ad needs to be pulled with an apology. Maybe if enough people bombard the company, they will recognize that this is not acceptable (to Americans, at least). If enough individuals boycott the company, it will at least send a message. Does anyone know who devised this ad?
(164) betty, July 16, 2014 2:51 AM
It's a disgrace.
(163) Stephen CE, July 16, 2014 2:46 AM
There's notthing here that suggests 'star of David' unless it will now mean anti Jewish sentiment whenever or wherever star is applied in any form of presentation. Jews everywhere should celebrate those who stand with them when it counts most like the football player who waved Israel flag after scoring at the world cup for Ghana or the Nigerians who are made to suffer for their undying support for Israel.
(162) Erica, July 16, 2014 2:32 AM
The enemy logo surely looks like a star of David (especially when flashing). There's also a crucifix among the soccer figurines. This is a strange and disturbing video and is certainly not entertaining, even if there had been no antisemitic elements. I am really surprised at NIKE.
(161) Marina Riveera del Aguila, July 16, 2014 2:12 AM
Yes, it is antisemitic
It is sad that they will not stop at anything. I can only see that this is only the beginning. HaShem told us to be aware. We must see them for what they are: G-d's people enemies. We depend on Him alone.
(160) Shoshna, July 16, 2014 1:51 AM
It is time to stop this!
Why restate the obvious? It is time to stop talking to Nike and to start talking to the companies that distribute their goods. I intend to contact every major sports store and express my distaste of the Nike company and tell them that I will not purchase anything from their business until NIKE apologizes for this offensive video. If millions of people do this, it should work. Nothing speaks louder than the mighty buck!
(159) Joy, July 16, 2014 1:42 AM
NO MORE NIKE!
NIKE SHOES LAST 2 - 3 MONTHS VERSES NEW BALANCE THAT LAST UP TO 8 MONTHS!
(158) Irene, July 16, 2014 1:36 AM
It is definitely stars of David and anti Semitic No more Nikes for me!
(157) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 1:31 AM
Symbols: losers Jewish star, winners, cross & Arab emirates
Arab emirate shirt symbol and cross on winning team members
Evident.
Too many clear symbols, not a neutral ad....
Anti-Semitic
(156) Rachel D., July 16, 2014 1:13 AM
Yes it's definitely anti-Semitic! The magen dovid is very obvious on the banner and on the uniforms. It's slight effort at subtlety reminds me of the earlier stages of the Nazi party...
(155) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 1:08 AM
Absolutely antisemitic
Their is no doubt this commercial is antisemitic. That is just shemeful
(154) joseph, July 16, 2014 1:06 AM
of course it is
of course it is why did they need to put any logo or name they still could have made it without the David star
(153) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 1:00 AM
Of course it is.
I wonder what excuse Nike would make for the stereotyped facial features of the clones. A big, crooked nose is a hallmark of "the Jew" in anti-Semitic cartoons.
(152) John, July 16, 2014 12:20 AM
no doubt
/There is no doubt that this is refined and sophisticated anti-Semitism. Very professionally evil.
(151) Eliezer-Menachem, July 16, 2014 12:08 AM
Propaganda & Lies
There is no doubt that the "logo"is a Magen-David and was intended to look that way. Even though the emblem is in the upper third of the white rectangle it is clearly in the centre. Now when called out Nike will try to hide its blatant propaganda with cover-ups and lies. I must admit I couldn't distinguish the airline logos dearly, but I wouldn't be too surprised as the United Emirates are notorious for playing a double game.
(150) Dvorah, July 15, 2014 11:47 PM
color green
Just notice how much green , or green tinted grey there is with the good side, or even when there is something hopeful going . Subliminal but effective and yes, the symbol is way too close to a Star Of Daviid. That cannot be a mistake.
(149) Leah, July 15, 2014 11:26 PM
It is only going to get worse
Subtlely embedded in this video unfortunately is every Jew-hater's fantasy...overcome & destroy the Jews.
(148) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 11:19 PM
history serves a warning
What marked the end of Nike for me and my family was the moment I saw this insensitive display of idiocy.
(147) Peter Philipp, July 15, 2014 11:17 PM
Absolutley anti-semitic. Will never buy Nike again!
Money talks. I will stop buying anything Nike. Maybe then Nike will listen.
(146) Lisa Yeoman, July 15, 2014 11:12 PM
Why use that symbol??
My feeling is that they didn't have to use a symbol that is basically the Star of David. It stinks
(145) Lori Scher, July 15, 2014 11:07 PM
Disingenuous denial
Yes the emblem looks like a soccer ball in the few close-up shots. Most of the video has distance or blurred shots where it looks exactly like a Magen David. Unintentional? I am not buying that from this sophisticated conglomerate and I am not buying Nike-period.
(144) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 10:47 PM
It is a Star of David
The present icon should either be changed or the whole program should be discontinued. If not, I shall become a former Nike Patron ! !
(143) Susan Maron, July 15, 2014 10:31 PM
Nike ad
While there is no "absolute" proof that this ad is anti-semetic, the circumstantial evidence is quite strong and I think, in good faith, Nike should unequivocally remove the ad.
(142) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 10:26 PM
Not blatantly antisemitic but obviously intends to put the Jews in the role of evil and the enemy of all that is good.
The statement that the symbol is not a Jewish Star is intellectually dishonest and transparently false. It fools nobody. Nike is obviously a captive of the anti Jewish left wing mindset. No more Nike purchases for me.
(141) Barry Baldonieri, July 15, 2014 10:24 PM
Fire
Did anyone else notice that the flame he lit had 8 points? A symbol sacred to Islam.
(140) Mary, July 15, 2014 10:09 PM
thinly veiled
it is thinly veiled but this advertisment is most decidedly antisemeti. Look at the uniforms and the behavior of the adversaries; the appear to the wearing the Star of David; look at the behavior of these payers; they are underhanded and definite in violation of all the rules.
(139) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 10:09 PM
absolutely anti-Semitic
We Jews might not be the best athletes (well, some are, but not most), but we're not stupid. It's clearly anti-Semitic and should be protested against forcefully.
(138) herb isaacson, July 15, 2014 9:59 PM
why is there any question. i will never buy nike again nor anyone else in my family
(137) Pastormc, July 15, 2014 9:50 PM
No more
I find it anti semiotic and will no longer buy nike
(136) edward romano, July 15, 2014 9:48 PM
This video is definettely anti-semitic.
I will not buy NIke products anymore
(135) ruth, July 15, 2014 9:37 PM
NIKE R U BLIND ?
Any body have to be blind or ignorant not to recognize the Star of David.....of course that video was done with the intention of denigrating the Jewish people ....shame on you Nike.!
(134) Tamar Kuperstein, July 15, 2014 9:29 PM
Very subtle and open to interpritation.
At some points the symbol on faraway 'flag" looks like the star of David. So that is a negative connotation.
(133) Annette, July 15, 2014 9:27 PM
what a shame - as if they couldn't come up with another symbol
sublime messages are the worst, they make us turn the other way and hope that it goes away, and keeps us in denial, then the worst comes when we make excuses for them!
But we can only see the sublime message if we ourselves are connected enough to judaism not just as a religion, but aware of the world around us as well, as we're supposed to be
(132) Michael, July 15, 2014 9:08 PM
antisemitic trash
I will never buy or recommend Nike
(131) Shane, July 15, 2014 9:06 PM
It does look like the star of David
I see how it looks like the star of David, and I hear concern for antisemitism, but I'm not totally sure that's what Nike intended. I'm not a Nike or Soccer fan, but I just don't see how this video is antisemitic other than the "bad guys" wearing what looks like stars of David. But, I could be wrong. I hope this is just case of bad market review. They should of seen this coming
(130) J.C., July 15, 2014 9:06 PM
Here is what Nike said about it.
Here is a copy of a response that I just received back from Nike regarding the Magen David symbol used in the ad:
Thank you for contacting our team here at Nike.com. I do apologize if you took any offense to the commercial. The logo shown on 'The Clones' player uniforms and on the advertising boards in 'The Last Game' film is a logo of a football. Any resemblance to any other symbol or image within the campaign is entirely coincidental and unintentional. We respect all religions and the image was in no way designed to cause any offense.
We do greatly appreciate your giving us your feedback. I will capture all of your feedback and send it to our leadership/development team for you. I would also like to thank you for your support of Nike, that is also greatly appreciated. If there is anything else at all that I can assist you with - please feel free to contact me directly and I'd be more than happy to help.
(129) Deborah, July 15, 2014 9:02 PM
Totallay unnecessary logo!
With all the imagination of producers/writers, WHY would they come up with something that SO clearly is a Star of David for the bad guys???????? Someone would have to be blind to miss it!
(128) Konrad Yona Riggenmann, July 15, 2014 8:45 PM
Chief clone: blond German. Good guys: Brazilian crypto-Jews!
The hexagonal logo of the dark forces is clearly derived from the hexagonal elements soccer balls have been made of since the late 1950s. However, a quick google research yielded that while soccer balls are mostly made either of pentagonal or hexagonal elements, the pentagonal design seems to be more common. Thus, I would not exclude that the video designers consciously or subconsciously had the Magen David in mind when they chose the hexagonal form of the sinister logo. The fact that they designed the chief villain in the video as a typical German-looking blond could be kind of tentative excuse or Freudian slip for the faintly "Jewish" looking evil logo. The blond guy reminds me (as a native German) strongly on German folk singer Heino who recently has been defamed as Nazi by German rapper Jan Delay (who was sentenced with 20,000 Euro for this insult). Anyhow, consider that the good guys are Brazilian-like mixed race. So in my view it would be almost ridiculous and possibly backfiring to accuse Nike of subliminal anti-Jewish messages. Note that Brazilian scholar Marcos Wasserman claims (in the magazine Amazônia Judaica, 2/2010), that 60 percent of Brazilians have some Sephardic converso ancestry. So the Brazilian good guys are kind of crypto-Jews, right? Howsoever, obviously the video has been produced before the worldcup since one of the good guys looks astonishingly like Cristiano Ronaldo, the star of the Portuguese team that failed yet in the first round. Surely the video was produced before the semi-finals when the Brazilian team was dropped out by those blond Germans who had but one (very good) black (Ghana born) team member. In the final match, Brazilian population rooted strongly for the German team since the opposing Argentinians rate as arrogant and racist. Be that as it may, Argentine society in general is much more antisemitic than Brazil, and I am happy that we crypto-Jewish Brazilians won at least in this video. Shalom from Curitiba!
(127) christine gavin, July 15, 2014 8:35 PM
disgusting!
Thank God he is going to take down the real clones, the filth who make this filth!
(126) Carol, July 15, 2014 7:59 PM
No more Nike for my family
No doubt about it. Even if Nike really thought it was a graphic of a soccer ball when presented to them. It is obvious that it looks like a Star of David and should have been changed immediately . I missed the Emirates logoreferenced
(125) Shelley, July 15, 2014 7:51 PM
Jews are portrayed as the new "Nazis"
The flag with the Magen David on it and the "bad guys" reminded me of Nazis, Maybe this was the intent, to portray Jews and Israel as the new "Nazis" in the world.
(124) donatella misler, July 15, 2014 7:45 PM
Disgusting
I find this video antisemitic, and worse at subliminal level
I used to wear Nike boots, but I will not buy them any more
(123) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 7:24 PM
Absolutely anti-Semitic and should be banned
This is a media war and the arabs own the media. Have you seen CNN lately?
(122) Marcia, July 15, 2014 7:23 PM
Of Course That IS A STAR OF DAVID….
The Flag On The Wall IS ABSOLUTELY A STAR OF DAVID…Does that Mean That NIKE Is Utilizing It to Show HATE TOWARD ISRAEL…Would THEY USE ANY OTHER RELIGIOUS SYMBOL? NO!
(121) DAVID, July 15, 2014 7:22 PM
OF COURSE-ANTISEMITISM!
Wake up Jews
It is time to come home and make aliya
Here is your place!
(120) Don Robins, July 15, 2014 7:20 PM
coincidence? hardly!
to suggest that the symbol looking like the Star Of David is a coincidence is ludicrous. Any symbol could have been used. Yet Nuke chose one that makes Jews into the bad guys....a pile-on game for millenia. The question is not what the ad portrays....that's obvious. The question is, how do you change the heart and mind of an anti-Semitic company which has unlimited resources? Boycott their products? There aren't enough sneaker-buying Jews IN THE WORLD to have even a minimal impact. Anti-Semitism is probably the second oldest 'profession' in the history of humankind.
(119) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 7:19 PM
Nike should be made accountable!!!!
Let's boycott Nike.
(118) Isahiah62, July 15, 2014 7:16 PM
answer :YES
The company claims that the controversial logos in the ad were intended to represent a soccer ball..................yeah a coincidence LOL De Nile ain't just a river in Egypt
Elisheva, July 15, 2014 11:48 PM
Really Nike? Really?
I thought soccer balls were round...not pointy like the star symbol they used. If they wanted to represent a soccer ball, maybe they should have started with...a circle? Wow. Their line of reasoning only condemns them further.
(117) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 7:16 PM
Totally inappropriate.
Scary because it is at the same time subtle & blatant.
Not even sure what they were trying to say. However, using the Star of David in such a way is in itself an outrage.
(116) Rivkah, July 15, 2014 7:11 PM
I also have bought my last Nike product. It's pretty obvious what they are trying to say......
(115) simcha, July 15, 2014 7:04 PM
I will never buy or ecommend Nike again
most anti semetic. Even an idiot can see that. Does that mean Dubai own Nike now???
(114) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 6:52 PM
Could just be an unfortunate interpretation
I can see where one could find 'anti-semitic' correlations...but the 'Jewish star' although six pointed is based on the soccer ball design. The clones were created by an apparently British character. Perhaps this is more anti-British than anti-Jewish. I don't think this was intended to be offensive to anyone. I think it is an unfortunate ambiguity that occurred because no one on that ad campaign was sensitive regarding the symbol as a Jewish star. I am still extremely disappointed that Nike is unwilling to cooperate when it is clear that many have been offended -- no matter how unwittingly.
(113) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 6:46 PM
what's to say--it is a Jewish Star
there is nothing subliminal about it.
(112) Heather, July 15, 2014 6:42 PM
I won't ever buy Nike again..
I have run track since school & ran in several marathons...I used to wear Nike all through school & it used to be my favorite sneaker. I am just one person, but I surely will not buy Nike again after seeing this...So beyond upsetting to see this...
(111) Angela Adamowicz, July 15, 2014 6:33 PM
The real insult about the video is the depiction of Brazil as a gigantic favela in Rio. The country indeed has a problem with favelas, but that's a 8,515,767 km² country! Brazil isn't just Rio de Janeiro. Also, why do people only play football in favelas? Many people love the sport, it's not restricted to favelas.
(110) Yisroel, July 15, 2014 6:20 PM
FYI- The meaning behind the Nike symbol:
The Nike “Swoosh” logo symbolizes the wing in the far-famed statue of the Greek Goddess of victory, Nike, who largely influenced countless brave warriors. Other folklore suggests that, a Greek would say, “When we go to battle and win, we say it is Nike.”
Would you expect anything less from this symbol of Avodah Zarah - idol worship?
btw I am a marathon runner. I stopped buying Nike products years ago because I was uncomfortable with the symbol.
(109) DANNY BERG, July 15, 2014 6:16 PM
ANTI-SEMITIC
YOU WOULD HAVE TO BE A VILLAGE IDIOT NOT TO SEE THE INFERENCE OF ANTI JEWISH IMPLIC ATIONS. THAT IS A JEWISH STAR "THE BAD GUYS ARE WEARING'."
(108) Lillian, July 15, 2014 6:13 PM
True Subliminal Messaging!
This is the worst kind of advertising, as the 'Star of David' is placed subliminally. When you look at it close up and slow it is a 'soccer ball' however, when it is viewed from 'afar' it is the Star of David and when it is flashed quickly it is the Star of David. This is true subliminal advertising and undermining peace in the Middle East by portraying Jews as nonhuman and inhuman and making the 'good guys' non-Jewish (with the Arab logos (flashed so fast that it is also subliminal)! I for one will never purchase anything from Nike again and will also let my friends and family know to boycott Nike.
Mike, July 15, 2014 7:22 PM
Not the SoD
Clearly it not, and not intended to be, the Star of David. I think there is massive over-reaction here.
Anonymous, July 16, 2014 7:33 AM
Clearly you are either stupid or a fanatical muslim . not much difference anyway
(107) Angela, July 15, 2014 6:12 PM
I do believe the symbol was supposed to represent the drawings in the football, the resemblance to a Star of David was a mere coincidence.
Anonymous, July 15, 2014 7:01 PM
People in advertising are VERY aware of the symbols they use.
A reuglar soccer ball (just google soccer ball pictures to see a few) has a five point star.
(106) Klara Firestone, July 15, 2014 6:09 PM
Blatant Antisemitism
I viewed with disgust the Nike ad between the "Clones" and the "Originals." The symbolic logos on the Clones' uniforms cannot be mistaken for anything else by the Star of David. But the fact that the other team is named the "Originals" is also VERY telling, albeit more subtle. Their uniforms, at one point, flashes "Emirates," which cannot be mistaken for anything other than an Arab team. By calling them the "Originals," it seems to imply the current distorted message of the countries that surround Israel, and that is that THEY are the original inhabitants of the land of Israel (formerly Palestine). Could this subliminal message be read any other way?? I think not. Nike should be brought to task for putting out such an offensive ad.
(105) bill c, July 15, 2014 6:03 PM
no question. it is the star of David. I've bought my last Nike product.
see the 1 liner
(104) LR, July 15, 2014 6:01 PM
Antisemitic - no doubt.
(103) Ettie, July 15, 2014 5:54 PM
The bad guys uniforms clearly had an emblem resembling the Star of David.
I found this offensive.
(102) jlr@cfsi.ca, July 15, 2014 5:44 PM
What was the purpose of the 'commercial'?
The Magen David was unmistakeable. There was no Nike information. The club logo could have been a mere circle - which wouild have no connotation.
(101) Colyn King, July 15, 2014 5:44 PM
Bye Nike
Bye Nike you will never get any more of my money.
(100) Jennifer Dublino, July 15, 2014 5:43 PM
Overly sensitive
Although the logo looks like a Star of David from afar, up close it looks like a soccer ball. I didn't see any Arab references or any other visual or spoken anti-Semitism. It is more of a celebration of the game than a political or religious statement. Focus your energy instead on real incidents of anti-Semitism where Jews are under attack and stop looking for the bogey man under the bed.
(99) JK, July 15, 2014 5:43 PM
Go New Balance
Subtle propaganda
(98) Shoshana, July 15, 2014 5:32 PM
Yes
I did not really see it at first, except for the reference to the star. But definitely in the 2nd half with the "Fly Emirates" logo in stark contrast to the darkness of the competition. It's written the world will be against us in the end.That does not happen overnight nor does it happen blatantly.
(97) Bootfall, July 15, 2014 5:31 PM
Context!
The star is represented in an empty stadium, rather backgrounded to the grey clones. I would question the story, this whole from the Favelas to the Pyramids approach with Darwinian animation full of stretched cocaine. Where have they brought this football to?
(96) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 5:17 PM
anti semitic overtones
no need for these symbols. Good bye Nike!!
(95) Diane, July 15, 2014 5:16 PM
It is subtle but anti-Semitism is certainly in this ridiculous ad.
(94) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 5:12 PM
Sneaky of Nike
Not impressed... this has to have been done deliberately :-/ and in such a way as to make anyone who notices and speaks out about it be able to be accused of "imagining things". Deceptive garbage on the part of Nike.
It it's set in Brazil what's with the Fly Emirates and Qatar advertising? The only middle eastern country to have sent a team to the FIFA World Cup was Iran.
Sure, sometimes in this clip a soccer ball is just a soccer ball - but in a lot of shots and places such as the background on the screen in the stadium it is CLEARLY Magen David to this goy.
(93) MARK LEWIS BRECKER, Esq., July 15, 2014 5:06 PM
DOUBT NIKE IS ANTI-ARAB.
ARABS COMPRISE 80% OF THE WORLD'S SEMITES [another 15% are of Ethiopian ethnicities]. THEY WOULD NOT BE PROMOTING AN ARAB NATION'S AIRLINES IF THEY WERE ANTI-SEMITIC.
MARICOS SAMIEL K'HAN
RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER
ETHIOPIA III
(92) BN, July 15, 2014 4:56 PM
Boycott their products
The ACLU and ADL should be called to put these blatant anti-Semites in their place.
(91) Jean, July 15, 2014 4:56 PM
Definitely anti-Semitic. I will no longer buy Nike products.
(90) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 4:50 PM
Just wrote to them
It can't hurt if every person who watches this writes to them. Why would a sports company get political??? If they see it bothered enough people I'm sure it'll make a difference.
(89) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 4:49 PM
obviously, someone didn't like Jews
Maybe the two crufixion images were just coincidences (did you notice them - look closely) , but giving the evil ones, who seek domination, Stars of David is clearly the work of an anti-Semite. I don't know if Nike was planning it, but once it was pointed out they should clearly have pulled this. Give me Reebok any time!
(88) Josh Pactor, July 15, 2014 4:48 PM
It does look like a soccer ball up close, but...
It does look like a soccer ball up close, but only up close. They had any number of ways to represent a stylized soccer ball. Also a soccer ball pattern is a pentagon, not a hexagon. Bring it all together and it's pretty suspicious.
(87) Laurence Goldstein, July 15, 2014 4:42 PM
If the logo were a plus ( ) would it be anti-Christian?
This isn't anti-Semetic. It's a waste off time, but so is soccer.
(86) Anselm, July 15, 2014 4:39 PM
Star it is
This is one way of influence the thinking of the world against the love Jews have for them and breed hate towards the state of Israel.
(85) Kerri, July 15, 2014 4:39 PM
Yes it is.
When you see the logo close up it looks like a washer nut when you see it far away or with the players running it definentley looked like the Star of David.. Plus the "good guys" had the logos of the airlines it is obvious. They need to pull that. I will write Nike, and never buy anything from them again!
(84) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 4:36 PM
Anti semetic! no doubt about it!
(83) Jose Fiss, July 15, 2014 4:24 PM
This was for sure made with the intent to add a religious tone to the advertisement, I will certainly keep Nike on my watch list
(82) Alexander Reisz, July 15, 2014 4:23 PM
Seriously?
It is campaigns like those, denigrating commercials where a soccer ball barely looks at times like a star of David, that creates antisemitism (the old joke of the stutterer who didn't get the job as a news anchor because he was Jewish and 'they were all antisemites'). I did notice there was no German or Dutch players among the superstars. Should I contend this ad is anti-German and anti-Dutch? Maybe we should indeed stop with the whining.
(81) Penni Silverman, July 15, 2014 4:20 PM
The video crosses the line of anti semitism and should be replaced
With the Middle East in turmoil nike if they were impartial should be more politically correct . I for one will not buy another nike product unless that video is banned and apologies are made.
(80) Steve, July 15, 2014 4:16 PM
Definitely Anti-Semitic
Buy the New Balance brand instead.
Their product is better and more comfortable.
Nike has been accused of abusive labor practices for years.
It is clear that they have little concern for humanity. .
This distateful ad shouldn't be a surprise.
It is clear that they will do just about anything to fill their pockets.
Here's hoping that their competitors swoosh them away.
(79) MarkBrill, July 15, 2014 4:05 PM
I know one thing. I'll never buy Nike products again!
Shirley, July 15, 2014 5:58 PM
Nike is blatantly displaying its disregard
Nike most definitively displayed its "covert" anti-semitism/anti-Israel proclivities with this video - will never buy a Nike product again - actually, I haven't in the past, usually purchase New Balance or Reebok - Nike should publicly apologize and REMOVE this injurious and insulting video.
(78) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 4:01 PM
anti-Semitic
Anti-Semitic ! Who is responsible for this idiocy?
(77) Paul, July 15, 2014 4:00 PM
Boycott
Someone with know how should start boycott of Nike, France, Arab airlines, NY Tlimes. All Jews and friends to participate.
(76) anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:58 PM
Of course the Nke ad is anti-semitic. The hexoganal definition and emphasis are now very old fashioned, so there is no excuse to use it. The new design has lots of non-racial swirls, of which Nike is surely aware. Besides, why do the "good guys" have "emerites" on the backs of their shirts?
(75) Jim Schwade, July 15, 2014 3:51 PM
Definitely deliberate and antisemitic: I'm done with Nike products
Agree couldn't be real soccer ball pattern. Even so, they should be sensitive and savvy enough to know it's too similar to a Star of David. And the "Fly Emirates" logo is too obvious. Sophisticated advertising agencies are aware of this stuff.
This is clearly intended to have a subliminal anti-Jewish message.
(74) Scott, July 15, 2014 3:47 PM
Logo is a football with outer edge removed
It is a clever ad., full stop. George Orwell would have been pleased with its tone and the victory for the people.
(73) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:43 PM
Why use stars of David? Of course antisemitic!
(72) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:42 PM
Its not entirely clear but the image on shirts and banner could be Magen David.
Looks like subliminal ad against those wearing the Magen David or the Jews! Not very smart,but very cunning. It should be confronted, and someone should find out who created this ad.
(71) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:39 PM
anti-semetic
it is absolutely ant-semetic. it doesn't need explanation. you see the magen david on the bad guys.......we need to do more protesting or it will happen again
(70) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:34 PM
Anti-semetic
The Nike ad is most definitely anti-semitic. Shame on them. I am certain someone in the Emirates had a lot of fun thinly disguising virulent anti-semitism in a soccer ad. Disgusting. The ad should be pulled immediately. Enough!
(69) ignacio israel, July 15, 2014 3:33 PM
i disagree
the logo also looks like the gear icon. as a jew i think the hypersensitivity has to stop. maybe its because i grew up in the USA or maybe its because im not one to believe that jews are in some impending mortal danger. i understand history but we cant be so paranoid that we're blinded by it.
(68) gene Zamler, July 15, 2014 3:28 PM
terrible.
Nike should stop.
(67) Pearl, July 15, 2014 3:25 PM
Nike surprise!!
Yes I believe it has overtones of anti-semitism. After seeing this I decided to contact Nike. I have so many Nike products that I enjoy. I want to let them know I am not buying their products. With anti-semitism in the rise this is a dangerous video. It is not enough to have Jewish organizations complain. Customers need to express their disapointment. I cant help wondering why they would make this kind of business decision? Did they receive so much money from Qatar that they had the final say? Thank you Aish for bringing this to my attention.
(66) irving katz, July 15, 2014 3:24 PM
Univision Nike commercial
The Univision ad is far more "Star of David" defined-DUH to anyone who says that it is something else-like the ADL in Fl.-Jewish "useful idiots"
(65) Wendy Beth, July 15, 2014 3:19 PM
A Jewish star does not have to have a blue and white striped background to be a Jewish star. The anti-Jew allusion is so stunning in its clarity that its more statement than allusion.
(64) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:17 PM
Disturbing
That was a very disturbing ad. It is disturbing to see how every day we hear of more of this...we must remember that the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob is our God and He is the one true God and when we stay true to Him He fights our battles!
(63) Alex M., July 15, 2014 3:17 PM
slightly veiled anti-Israel propaganda
Note the death like color of the Stars of David players and the life affirming colors of those "champions" The message is subtle yet quite clear: Israel and the Jews need to be defeated. ( Slaughtered )
(62) diamond_dooug, July 15, 2014 3:15 PM
Despicable no matter what the intent!
If no one at Nike considered the possibilities- shame on them. They have now lost my very supportive business forever! An apology would have to also be accompanied by actions.
(61) c, July 15, 2014 3:07 PM
HORRIFYING. Don't be naive!
Pause it now and then and check out little things like the Emirates and Qatar airlines ads on soccer jerseys, a player named "Ibrahimovic", the "gear" logo which of COURSE is mean to be a star of David! Because, as someone pointed out, soccer ball pattern is a pentagram, not a hexagram. Boycott Nike!
(60) Querida, July 15, 2014 3:07 PM
you have to be blind and dumb not to see it...
It is anti-Semitic all the way....Perhaps American Jews should start looking for another Brand of sneakers, and give up on Nike...there are many Brands that are excellent on your feet..!! and look super....very fashionista..!!
They owe the Jewish people an apology, Nike should not deny what they did was intentional, specially being paid by United Arab Emirates and Qatar, the home of Masel the leader of Hamas.. who hides there...
(59) Cheryl, July 15, 2014 3:06 PM
As an Advertising Professor I would have it out w/ Nike!
I agree - they could have chosen a better logo for the uniforms - it's way too close to a Jewish Star - I would have it out w/ Nike! Tasteless!
Professor Pilchik,
Advertising
(58) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:06 PM
very antisemitic
very antisemitic
(57) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:05 PM
yes it is anti semitic
Don't think I will be buying any more Nike shoes. That insignia represents a football? Who's kidding who! The not very subliminal message the evil clones are Jews. The free world better wake up an soon and no I am not Jewish. You don't have to be Jewish to support Israel! It's time to stand up for Israel!
(56) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:04 PM
yes it is anti-semitic
THE PROBLEM HERE IS IT IS BEING PAID FOR BY QATAR WHO THE US JUST YESTERDAY GAVE HUGE AMOUNT OF MASS WEAPONS. ANYWAY, THEY ARE VIRULENT ANTI-SEMITIC IN THIS VIDEO THE BLAZERS HAVE THE STAR OF DAVID AND MOST OF THE SOUND IS OF AN ARABIC ACCENT. BUT IT IS VERY SUBTLE, THEY THROW IN SOME SPANISH ACCENTS, BUT THE ARABIC ACCENT IS QUITE PRONOUNCED.
THE MINUTE ANYONE IN THE MIDDLE EAST SEE THIS VIDEO IT IS ANTI-ISRAEL AND ANTI-SEMITIC.
AND OF COURSE THEY CAN GET AWAY WITH IT BECAUSE THE SUBTLETY IS HIDDEN FROM THE WEST BUT TO THE ARAB COUNTRIES THE JEALOUSY AND RIVALRY IS ENDEMIC TOWARD THEIR ARCH ENEMY ISRAEL. AND SOCCER IS A TRUE REHEARSAL TO COMBAT IN MOST PRIMITIVE CULTURES. IN ISRAEL THE ARAB CULTURE CONSTANTLY IS PORTRAYED AS NOT REALLY HUMAN NOT REALLY ALIVE. SO YOU HAVE A SACRED RIGHT TO DESTROY THEM. THIS WAS ALSO THE BASIS OF NAZI PROPAGANDA. THIS DOES NOT SELL PRODUCT THEY ARE SELLING THE PATHOLOGICAL HELL OF THE MIDDLE EAST. AND THEY ARE ON THE WRONG SIDE OF HISTORY, AND THAT WRONG SIDE ALSO INCLUDES THE INFIDEL AMERICAN.
(55) Jeff, July 15, 2014 3:03 PM
Nike Video Crosses The Line
Of course it is anti-Semitic. Star of David for the bad guys who are only in the game for business. Counted at least two good guys who are Muslim. Send some Nike executives to Holocaust Museum for sensitivity training and community service.
(54) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:03 PM
Yes it is.
With out a doubt the video has an anti Jewish message. This is just like 1930s Europe before the holocaust. Very dangerous.
(53) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:00 PM
Absolutely is the Jewish star
There is no question that it is a Jewish star on the "clones" uniforms and the flag/team banner in the stadium. Horrible.
(52) Doris, July 15, 2014 2:57 PM
Repulsive
Without question, this is anti-Semitism. It is disgusting , repulsive, and must be stopped.
(51) Angel, July 15, 2014 2:57 PM
It is anti-jew, no doubt about it I am not a jew. NEVER AGAIN!
(50) Elisheva, July 15, 2014 2:51 PM
Here we go again...
That's not an ad. That's propaganda with symbols used as psychological communication tools. The "clones" as they call them, have a symbol on their shirt that resembles the Star of David. If you didn't tell me it was a Nike commercial, I wouldn't have known what product they were selling. On that point alone Nike needs to fire their ad agency.
As for the stealth like messages and the tone of the propaganda piece, it's no shock to me that Nike doesn't care about how the Jewish community perceives it. Using the Jew as a tool of negative propaganda is something that has been done for centuries...it's just a part of the anti Semitic agenda. They "just do it" with no remorse.
The Nazis were pros at the propaganda game...granted they took a more in your face approach, but it seems that many in the media world follow their lead...only in a less recognizable fashion. Nike isn't naive to the power of logos and symbols. They know better, and for that, I say shame on Nike.
I won't be buying Nike products anymore. Sure, they have the freedom to share their stealth like opinion, but I have the right not to support it.
(49) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:49 PM
Not anti-Semitic ......
Not anti-Semitic ....rather clever logo using soccer balls....
(48) Sharon Epstein, July 15, 2014 2:45 PM
Absolutely! anti-semetic.......!!!!!!
The worls needs to do the same thing...rise-up, and fearlessly
stand up to Moslem intimidation!!!!! The only way to stop a dangerous Bully is immediately, stand up, speak up and confront!
Demand NIKE take down this video or face JEWISH retaliation world wide..................
(47) Little Rhody Jon, July 15, 2014 2:44 PM
Subliminal Advertising
In my previous life I was an advertising exec... and one of the industry's best tools was (and is) subliminal advertising. Technically the symbol is not the Mogen David... but it sure looks it! And when you pivot it 45 degrees it's an undeniable likeness.
I did not pick up the airline logos but that further reinforces the theory that this was planned.
I hate to repeat what I've been saying for years... Israel's PR is horrible. Too many blunders, poor timing, etc. We could learn from our Arab neighbors. Israel needs a subtle, world-wide PR campaign in addition to the good work performed by so many Jewish organizations. And if one is underway now, it is way too subtle.
(46) Alice, July 15, 2014 2:43 PM
Definitely anti-semetic
Very clever ad. However, the reality is that it's anti-semetic. Even the hats on the clones' heads seemed like those the Jews wore during the holocaust. The problem is this world is being influenced by the evilness of radical extremist arabs. They must be stopped and put out of power. It's pathetic how sports were used to deliver a political message. Nike should stick to sports what they know best and stay away from politics. Obviously they wanted the $ they were offered by arab countries for this ad. Shame on you Nike. I purchase a lot of your products but I will think twice from now on. Adidas is equally as good if not better.
(45) Yitschak, July 15, 2014 2:42 PM
not antisemitic, just terribly stupid
Watching this ad, I cannot help wondering how so much money is wasted on such childish stupidity
(44) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:42 PM
Absolutely picked the Israeli symbol
They had a choice of millions of symbols. Every adult knows this is Israels symbol. That means the designers and the upper management deliberately picked this star. In this day when everyone is sensitive to others i find it impossible to believe this was a coincidence!
(43) Jeff, July 15, 2014 2:41 PM
That's no soccer ball!
The evil clones' team logo sure looks like a stylized magen david. Nike has definitely shown where it's staking its market share: it sees more money to be made in the muslim world; and is betting on not enough people caring about its anti-semitic advertising, in the current anti-Israel and anti-Jewish climate.
The question is: Does anyone at Aish have any concrete suggestions about how to address this matter and take Nike to task?
(42) Robert, July 15, 2014 2:38 PM
anti-semite nike cartoon
What's with the star of david and the head covering on the "evil" clones????
(41) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:38 PM
Nike: You should be ashamed of yourselves cheap and ugly!
There is NO excuse for this kind of hate- ad.
Nike you have managed to reach down to a new low
in poor taste advertising. The BIG question is:
Is Nike being paid off by the big oil interests perhaps?
(40) janiece, July 15, 2014 2:36 PM
nike video anti semetic?
the video was very disturbing!
(39) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:36 PM
Video Nike
It is clearly anti-Semitic. .
(38) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:34 PM
Definitely Anti-Semitic
There is so much to list.
The uniforms of the authority do look like Stars of David
The stone staircase is recollective of a pyramid
One of the "good guys" was wearing a "Fly Emirates" shirt
It's disgusting. All Jewish people throughout the world should stop purchasing anything Nike.
(37) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:34 PM
Yes, it is antif-Semetic
There is no doubt - it is anti-Semitic. Nike is being bought by Arab sponsors and is willing to debase itself for money.
(36) SW, July 15, 2014 2:27 PM
reaction to video
It is very subtle, but the small shifts from the appearance of a soccer ball to the form of the magen David is definitely there and the theme of uniting together to take it all is also unmistakable. Just in case I wouldn't be sure if I was imagining things, the uniforms with united Emirates solidifies the message for me. This is terrifying and I am not sure what we can do about it.
(35) Miki, July 15, 2014 2:23 PM
Shame!
Though Nike may claim otherwise, for the sake of peace and visual misinterpretation, they should change the logo which certainly appears as a jewish star. This is what descent people would do!!!!
(34) Darlene, July 15, 2014 2:23 PM
Logo on shirts
If you watch the video you will see that the intention was indeed that the logo on the shirts of the clones be a soccer ball, one shot shows that accurately; HOWEVER, most of the shots, for whatever reason, have "light flashing" on the logo that it indeed looks like the Star of David. Therefore, whether it was intentional or not, it MUST be corrected. IT gives a very wrong messoge and if it's "not intentional" then it's a mistake and mistakes NEED TO BE CORRECTED.
(33) David, July 15, 2014 2:22 PM
Gosh, that did look like a Star of David
But, on the other hand, none of the people wearing it suited any antisemitic stereotype I've ever heard-- people have said lots of unkind, unfair and untrue things about Jews, but nobody ever accused us of being genetically modified to create a perfect soccer team. It's also worth noting that Nike has a fairly active marketing presence in Israel...
(32) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:21 PM
definitely anti -semitic
The use of the magen david symbol strikes us as an example of demonization
(31) Alfredo Casillas, July 15, 2014 2:18 PM
Dear Jews Friends:
SURE, ITS VERY CLEAR THATS A nike ANTI SEMITIC VIDEO. I wont to buy nike aymore.
All the best
Alfredo CASILLAS
(30) jeremy gilmore, July 15, 2014 2:03 PM
this is most definitely racist as the other payers have crosses on their kit, this needs to be stopped immedately
(29) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 12:31 PM
NIKE'S AD - UNNERVING
This is a very clever ad. it would be hard to say definitely that it is anti-Semitic, but it certainly has anti-Semitic undertones. I don't like it; it could have an effect on young people who are easily swayed by what they see. Can we complain?
Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:11 PM
Nike too?
As a Holocaust second generation child who grew up understanding the meaning of the cruelty behind the yellow star, armbands and the swastika, I am appalled.
Why this symbol when there are countless to choose from to symbolize evil.
I guess that Nike is no longer a company I can support along with the biased reporting of the New York Times.
Again I ask, why?
(28) Yehudith Shraga, July 15, 2014 9:41 AM
The complete lack of professionalism and creativity
There is no doubt this "ad" is well-paid by those who wish the world to see the reality through their eyes, and it isn't a wonder, what surprised me the most is the lack of standards and talents of Nike! All this Nike was able to produce is the CLONE of "good guys-bad guys" PLOT, the world is sick and tired of.
If the article didn't say that it were an ad of Nike, I would never guess it, because it looks like a story about Gaza boys, who play the football in the streets, because there is no chance Hamas is going to spend a dollar to build a playgrounds for them, or those who ordered the "ad" would pay the same amount of money they used on this piece of plagiarism, to buy those children Nike shows, besides, the scalp as an emblem of the "production studio" shows well enough what is behind all this piece of waste.
Those who made this ad are sick with Judeophobia, which is the sign of their "last days" of creativity and ability to produce something interesting and original.
(27) adam, July 15, 2014 5:53 AM
soccer balls are pentagrams
Someone mentioned this in the comments, i looked it up, and its true, each patch on a regular ball is only five sides
which makes it impossible to have a pattern that could have six points.
it would be impossible to have the star logo without changing the entire design of the soccer ball, giving each patch six sides.
why would anyone change the design of the soccer ball? why would anyone change the symbol of the most played sport on the planet? for no reason?
this is clearly done on purpose!
i also couldn't help but notice faded dark bars on top and bottom of the big screens depicting the 'clone' logo making its likeness to the Israel flag undeniable.
it seems that we all need to remember what we all have done for the past 2000 years in exile, support eachother, becasue we cannot rely on anyone else anymore. we can only rely on eachother and God himself!
lets stop pretending that we will have the support of our allies. when the revolution comes they will be the first to put us up against the wall!
its is only in you, God, that we can depend, please redeem us from our enemies, and from ourselves! from our blind faith in a world that would sell us out faster than we could say 'Hamas'
i thank you America for all that you have given us, but please understand when i find it very difficult to trust you and your european friends.
karen, July 15, 2014 2:48 PM
a soccer ball is a combination of pentagrams and hexagrams
Is this ad anti-Semitic - probably. Is it stupid - definitely. However, we need to get our facts straight if we are going to criticize. I am looking at pictures of soccer balls as I write this - a soccer ball is a combination of pentagrams surrounded by hexagrams.
I just know my next pair of sneakers will NOT be Nike.
(26) Pratima Patel, July 15, 2014 4:17 AM
YES stars of David. Nike exposed their true colors.
They're stars of David that represent the vilifiedl "clones" and nothing else. Definitely deliberate. Horrifying!
Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:03 PM
Boycott Nike
Let the word out - BOYCOTT NIKE AND LET THEM KNOW IT!!
(25) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:27 AM
Just do it...light a candle
So much darkness and evil in the world. Let's stay focused and just do it ...do random acts of kindness having in our hearts prayers that the world will see clearly what is good and what is evil. Good is even more powerful than evil. Let's each light up the world with good deeds and Hashem will take care of the rest.
Rina, July 15, 2014 2:42 PM
Amen - just do it - light a candle and vote to take down the nike ad
Amen - just do it - light a candle and vote to take down the nike ad. In soccer fields, the advertise 'down with racism' yet Israel was not a team that was playing, apparently they didn't make the cut, tell me that's not racism or antisemitism at its roots! pray for us, pray hard!
Rae Stevens, July 15, 2014 4:19 PM
YES
I agree with your view and I think the real problem beyond ignorance and lack of compassion, is the matter of excessive misdirected TESTOSERONE in the world!
(24) Rick C, July 15, 2014 3:24 AM
.Not a star its a cog.
Not anti-Semitic. looks more like a gear than a star. Don't be so hypersensitive
Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:50 PM
Please see my comment below
With respect, Rick, look again. There are other "Jewish" features and symbols relating to the clones; this is subtle but the message is there. And for safety's sake it is better to be hypersensitive than insensitive.
(23) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 12:32 AM
Subtile or not... This is anti-semitic and helps set the stage for something bigger. If this is acceptable, why not go a step further.
Just remember, this is how Hitler started out very subtile and no one took it swriously until it was too late. Let's not make the same mistake!
(22) Anonymous, July 14, 2014 11:57 PM
unacceptable
The depictions,connotation,the message and the targets are obvious. We understand your pretenses,Nike but consider this to be morally indefensible. Hate from a global sportswear maker? I urge, for good reason,that Nike be avoided.
(21) Avraham Turetsky, July 14, 2014 11:33 PM
as they say, there is no such thing as bad publicity
It is reasonable to assume that Nike knew that the ad would offend Jews and please anti-Semites, but I think that's something that they neither pursued nor tried to avoid. Their main goal was likely to put out an ad which will get people to talk about it. Nike knows that whatever they would lose from Jews boycotting their brand, it would gain back hundredfold from the ad being viewed and discussed as a result of the controversy. The fact that I wrote this comment just now and viewed the video proves that their marketing is working. As a Jew, however, I don't like to give benefit to the company that benefits itself at the detriment of my people, so I will try to refrain from buying Nike at least for some time. My "boycott" is unlikely to impoverish Nike, but, as it says in Pirkei Avos - lo alecha hamlocha ligmor, v'lo ata ben chorin lehibatel mimena.
(20) Inbar, July 14, 2014 8:59 PM
definitely anti-judaic overtones
Could it be that Nike did not catch those anti-judaic associations? It seems rather unlikely. This game may be won by the clones' adversaries, but in real life unity and allegiance to Hashem will make us unbeatable. It's up to us to make this wishful dreaming instead of a self-fulfilling prophecy!
(19) Anonymous, July 14, 2014 5:10 PM
anti-semitic overtones
I believe the film has anti-semitic overtones. It shows a heartless set pf drones wearing something that very much resembles a Star of David on their shirts. They are controlled by a dictator. The movie suggests that the opposing team, dressed in many different colors are the human ones. It is suggestive that Israel with its well trained army is run by a dictator (like Hilter) and they are defeated by a rag-tag set of underdogs (the Palestinians). Nike should be ashamed of themselves if that is what they believe and put forth to the world. Who is supporting Nike??
(18) Jewell, July 14, 2014 4:47 PM
Very simple solution!
Jews everywhere need to boycott Nike! AND go on their website to let NIke know that we will not stand for this type behavior.
(17) Anonymous, July 14, 2014 2:08 PM
shocking
it plays on "associations"
it has a subtle message which is dangerous and reprehensible
definitely anti semitic
Shirah Valentine, July 15, 2014 3:33 AM
Subtle -- David vs Goliath
I agree. The association is subtle. The "originals" being Arab victims of the clones that mob the field to beat up the team. If you're not familiar with the Israel/Arab conflict, you can miss it. Those sensitive, which includes most of the Arab world, will get it.
(16) Aliza, July 14, 2014 1:12 PM
looks like it
yes this ad looks offensive and anti-Semitic.
(15) scott, July 14, 2014 9:01 AM
Done with Nike.
It is inconceivable that the marketing department of a huge concern like Nike doesn't have people that do nothing but look for racial codewords and whatnot in their marketing materials. I find it hard to believe that no one made this connection at Nike.
Hating Jews is good for business in the Arab market.
I will never buy anything from Nike ever again.
(14) Anonymous, July 14, 2014 4:43 AM
Not like a soccer ball
They said that the symbol was supposed to be based on the design of a soccer ball, but soccer balls have pentagons, and these are six sided with outward projections. The symbol is definitely reminiscent of the Star of David.
(13) Anonymous, July 14, 2014 3:11 AM
It is not anti semitic. The Magen David It is just an icon that Nike decided to use, just like a sheriff's badge.
See above in a one line description.
It could be interpreted though as being subliminal just like Fly Emirates.
Dvirah, July 14, 2014 4:23 PM
Other Clues
The messaging is subliminal and insidious. In addition to what certainly looks very much like a Magen David being flashed everywhere, there are the subtle clues in the facial features of the clones (hint of a beard on one, Eastern European features on another) and the scene in the barber shop where the barber turns away and all the clones turn to follow him - looking like they are wearing Kippot! Yes - definitely anti-semitic and don't think Nike doesn't know it!
Dvirah, July 15, 2014 3:47 PM
And an Addendum
Incidentally, this advert also demonstrates how many people don't know the true meaning of the words they use. A "clone" is, scientifically, an exact genetic copy of a specific human being - and so is him/herself fully human! The clone also has only the talents and abilities of the original human copied - so unless the original was superhuman, the clone won't be either.
It is this kind of linguistic ignorance which allows the appellation of the term "aparthied" to Israel, for example. Since people don't really know what a word means, the liars can twist the term to any meaning they wish - and most people, being lazy, will not bother to check up.
(12) Sheldon Dan, July 14, 2014 2:45 AM
Probably Unintentional
I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt to Nike. However, it is clear that someone did not think that the logo looked like the Star of David, and they did not consider that the logo would be interpreted that way. The logos of "Fly Emirates" and "Qatar Airways" did not help matters. It may have looked like a soccer ball to Nike, but this is carelessness on the part of the ones who approved the ad.
(11) Dan Richman, July 14, 2014 2:28 AM
Call them and complain!
Am I the only one who remembers a few years ago Nike pulled a bunch of shoes because someone complained that the "AIR" script kind of looked like "ALLA"... How very PC of them.
And they put this garbage out?
So, call them.
1-503-671-6453, 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday (except holidays).
I can say I haven't bought Nike because:
1) I went to Oregon State and Phil Knight showered money on the U of Oregon.
2) I found that their basketball shoes didn't last under my bulk..
3) Their running shoes were too fragile for my 240 lbs.
4) Their advertising was offensive.
But I will still call that number and complain.
(10) JAFFA, July 13, 2014 11:38 PM
FOR SURE IT IS ANTISEMITIC (ANTI JEWISH!)
iT IS OUNDOUBTABLY ANTISEMITIC!
I WOULD NEVER BELIEVE THAT SUCH A BRAND AS NIKE, CAN BRING ABOUT SUCH A CREEPY, BORING AND NON SENSE VIDEO! WHAT A SHAME! AND IT WAS MY FAVORITE BRAND!
I AGREE WITH YOCHEVED: It's encouraging, though, that they call it "The Last Game." They're right about that part! They're talking about the final battle, and they're not going to win it!
(9) Anonymous, July 13, 2014 9:57 PM
Nike add
If it was intended to be antisemitic, it is done in a way that is ambiguous enough so that they can say it is " just a bit of misunderstanding". I am also wondering if the Bowl hair cut idea came from a Vodafone add in New Zealand.
(8) Miriam, July 13, 2014 8:49 PM
The chutzpah!
They made the "Israelis" look like Arab terrorists! Incredible! They are wearing black and have Arab faces! They want to confuse the masses into thinking the terrorist pictures they see are Israeli! Wow! Galus is here!
(7) Anonymous, July 13, 2014 7:35 PM
The nike add
The flag with it's stark colors certainly looks like the israeli flag and though the players are generic it's hard to miss the symbolism of the "Zionist" superpower using technology and money to win against the poor oppressed underdog.Shame on Nike.
(6) Yossi B., July 13, 2014 6:07 PM
Just Do It!
Boycott Nike: Just Do It!
(5) Anonymous, July 13, 2014 5:20 PM
Boycott Nike but this is a boring and stupid video and should be in the garbage anyway. What crap put forth by Nike. They should be ashamed.
(4) Ilana, July 13, 2014 4:48 PM
Of course it is
No one can miss the anti-Semitism, Nike either doesn't care or supports it.
(3) Yocheved, July 13, 2014 3:36 PM
Creepy!
Entirely creepy from beginning to end, and there is no doubt that the logo looks _exactly _ like a Star of David from the angle at which it is shown about 98% of the time. A very insidious attempt to instill a very ugly message. It's encouraging, though, that they call it "The Last Game." They're right about that part! They're talking about the final battle, and they're not going to win it!
(2) Richard-Rafael Joachim, July 13, 2014 3:29 PM
You have got to be kidding me!
Like Miriam commented above, it's not original, I thought it was just silly but if the logos on the 'clone' players is supposed to be the Magen Dovid (Star of David) it doesn't come across, it looks more like the old image for nuclear material Nike's ad company really should get some original thinkers for the kind of money they probably shelled out for this garbage. I wouldn't buy Nike stuff anyway - made in sweatshops in the 3rd World or Chinese mass-produced and fools pay a fortune for the name which is, by the way is that of a pagan god. I think in this case we Jews have more worrying concerns right now,
(1) Miriam, July 13, 2014 11:35 AM
Nike, you're not original.
Nazi cartoonists thought of this a while back. Shame on you, Nike! All Jews should boycott Nike.