Belgian FA stand by ‘misogynist’ rapper

The Belgian football federation has said it will not change its mind about choosing a rapper known for lacing his songs with obscene and misogynistic lyrics to produce its official World Cup song.

The federation said in a statement yesterday, International Women’s Day, that it did not want to be taken “hostage” by prowomen groups, who say it is unacceptable that an artist using degrading lyrics could be picked to produce what should be a unifying song for the country.

The team’s sponsors, however, said they would consult on whether it is wise to keep rapper Damso as the choice to produce the song.

Damso has said his songs are more complicated that the denigrating terms imply and accused the media of unduly centring on him.