A group of Japanese football supporters who stayed behind after a Women’s World Cup match in Brisbane to clean the stadium have been told by two British women to ‘do it at home’. The incident, which took place following Japan’s 2-0 victory over Costa Rica on 26 July, has prompted a debate about cultural differences and the perception of courtesy.
The Japanese fans, known for their custom of tidying up after matches, were seen collecting litter in the stands at Lang Park when the British women reportedly approached them. According to witnesses, one of the women said, ‘Why don’t you do that at home? This isn’t Japan.’ The remark was met with confusion and some discomfort among the Japanese supporters, who have long been praised for their respectful behaviour at international sporting events.
The incident was captured on video and quickly spread on social media, drawing both criticism and support for the British women. Some commentators have described the remark as culturally insensitive, accusing the women of failing to understand the significance of the Japanese tradition. Others, however, have defended the women’s right to express frustration, arguing that the cleaning practice can be seen as diminishing the role of local stadium staff.
FIFA, the world football governing body, has not issued a formal statement on the matter. A spokesperson for Football Australia, the host nation’s organising committee, told the BBC that they were aware of the incident and encouraged all fans to respect each other’s customs. ‘We welcome the spirit of goodwill and mutual respect that defines the Women’s World Cup,’ the spokesperson said.
Japanese fans have a well-documented history of cleaning stadiums after matches, a practice rooted in the cultural concept of ‘mottainai’, or a sense of regret over waste. The tradition gained international attention during the 2018 men’s World Cup in Russia, and was widely celebrated as an example of collective responsibility.
Professor Akiko Hashimoto, a sociologist at the University of Tokyo, said the incident highlights the risk of cultural misunderstandings in a globalised world. ‘What is intended as a gesture of respect in one culture can be interpreted as criticism or even arrogance in another,’ she said. ‘The Japanese fans are not suggesting that others should follow their example; they are simply doing what they believe is right.’
The British women have not been publicly identified, and it is unclear whether they were speaking on behalf of a larger sentiment among British fans. The England women’s national team, which is also competing in the tournament, has not commented on the incident.
In a statement to the Guardian, one of the British women, who wished to remain anonymous, said her comment was ‘taken out of context’. She claimed she was trying to make a light-hearted joke, but acknowledged that it came across as rude. ‘I have nothing but respect for Japanese fans,’ she said. ‘I just think it’s a bit odd that they clean up after us, as if we can’t do it ourselves.’
The incident has prompted a broader conversation about the expectations placed on Japanese visitors abroad. Some social media users have pointed out that Japanese fans are often subject to a double standard: praised for their politeness but also criticised when their behaviour is perceived as excessive.
For now, the Japanese fans have continued their cleaning ritual at subsequent matches, and organisers have said there have been no further reports of tension. The Women’s World Cup continues until 20 August.
