A giant floating replica of the Brazilian Christ The Redeemer statue rolled into Melbourne today ahead of next week’s World Cup, and the city wasn’t overly pleased with the display.
Bookmaker sportsbet.com.au was behind the stunt, erecting a 12-storey, 46-metre high replica of the of the iconic Rio de Janeiro attraction donning the green and gold Socceroos jersey with a ‘KEEP THE FAITH’ hash tag in response to the lack of optimism surrounding the upcoming Socceroos campaign.
“Let’s be honest, the Socceroos need some divine intervention to win a single match at the World Cup!” said a representative, referring to the team’s $751 to win odds.
“So, we’re calling on all Aussies to Keep The Faith in the Socceroos and show the world that miracles do happen – and if anyone is asking him, a bit of help from the big man upstairs wouldn’t go astray.”
The social media response wasn’t flattering. Led by reverend Tim Costello, a barrage of backlash was sent flying in the direction of the of the Aussie betting agency.
“There seems to be no corporate or civic responsibility to say ‘hang on, is nothing sacred?'” Costello said, also the chair of the Australian Churches Gambling Taskforce.
“Is betting to absolutely dominate not just casino and gamble areas and TV rooms, but now literally the sky?
“This is extraordinary, if they knew anything about Jesus they’d know he’d be overturning tables in the gaming halls, because they’re highly addictive and destroy lives.”
I’m disgusted. @sportsbetconau Outrage over giant Jesus hot-air balloon floating over Melbourne http://t.co/AP7Xwkvlwu #keepthefaith
— Pat O’Pinion (@dlp_is_back) June 10, 2014
If you see a huge flying Jesus over Melbourne today, don’t stress; Josh Kennedy is just coming home for treatment.
— Dale Roots (@dale_roots) June 9, 2014
Love the pre World Cup publicity stunt from @sportsbetcomau leaders in the betting industry #KeepTheFaith #GoSocceroos
— William Campbell (@campbellwill2) June 10, 2014
Italian broadcaster Rai landed in hot water earlier in the week when they depicted the Redeemer wearing the Azzuri blue in a 30-second spot.
Labelling the advert disrespectful, the Brazilian Catholic Church has threatened to sue the company for as much as $AU10 million.
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