In England, football is a religion. In France, football is not a religion. It's wine and food.

The quote "In England, football is a religion. In France, football is not a religion. It's wine and food." by Robert Pires humorously contrasts the cultural priorities of two nations through the lens of football (soccer). Pires, a former French international footballer and a key member of France’s 1998 World Cup-winning squad, is well-positioned to comment on this difference, having played professionally in both countries—most notably for Arsenal in the English Premier League. His observation is not meant as a criticism, but as a reflection of how national identity and passions shape people's relationship with the sport.

When Pires says that in England, football is “a religion,” he is referring to the intense devotion, rituals, and emotional investment that many English fans bring to the game. Football in England is more than a pastime; it's deeply embedded in community life, history, and weekend culture. Stadiums become temples, matches are sacred events, and loyalties run through generations—mirroring the structure and intensity of religious fervor.

In contrast, Pires characterizes France’s relationship with football as more balanced or perhaps more relaxed, noting that “wine and food” occupy a central place in French culture. While football is still beloved and successful in France, it competes with a broader lifestyle appreciation that emphasizes pleasure, leisure, and culinary tradition. His statement reflects the idea that while the French enjoy football, their national spirit is more often celebrated at the dining table than in the stands.

Ultimately, this quote playfully highlights how cultural values influence the way sports are perceived and celebrated. Pires uses his unique perspective as a player immersed in both environments to show that while football is universal, its meaning and importance can vary dramatically depending on where you are—and what else you love.