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Two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA World Cup champion Carli Lloyd has come to the defense of former American men’s soccer star Alexi Lalas after critics criticized him on social media for his political stances.
Lloyd, a football analyst for FOX Sports, responded to a trolling comment about X, in which Lalas was called a “fascist” and Lloyd his “buddy.”
Hope Solo (1) and Carli Lloyd (10) of the United States celebrate with the American flag after defeating Japan 2-1 to win the gold medal match in the women’s soccer on day 13 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at Wembley Stadium in London, England, August 9, 2012. (Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“Confront their views, don’t be an appeaser or history will see this as another #Argentina78,” the comment read in part, referencing the 1978 World Cup in Argentina, which was marred by controversy over the host country’s human rights abuses at the time and attempts at sportswashing.
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The two-time FIFA Women’s World Champion responded by stating that she has never spoken publicly about her political views.
“Opinions? You don’t even know my opinions. I’ve never expressed them nor does it matter. I’m a football analyst. I don’t claim to be an expert on anything else,” Lloyd’s response on X read.
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Lloyd responded, suggesting that criticism of Lalas is solely due to him sharing his conservative views on social media.
Carli Lloyd (10) of the United States celebrates after scoring her team’s fourth goal during the Women’s Bronze Medal match against Australia on Day 13 of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Kashima Stadium in Kashima, Japan, on August 5, 2021. (François Nel/Getty Images)
“If I were speaking as a Democrat, you’d say the opposite. You’d appreciate it. And that’s the problem,” his post read.
Lalas has not shied away from talking about his political opinions or his support for the current administration. In September, he shared a post on X saying he is a “supporter” of President Donald Trump and his policy targeting illegal immigration.
“Yes, I am a supporter of President Trump and I love what he has done to secure our border and address illegal immigration. But I can still recognize the negative perception he can create and the impact [regarding] some potential World Cup visitors,” Lalas posted. “Of course, what I feel is good in the long term for my country overrides any concerns about the temporary impact of the World Cup. However, I believe it is important to work to counter any negative perceptions with the message that as long as you comply with visitor requirements, pass security, enter legally and obey our laws (as every other World Cup host has required of guests), you will have a wonderful, unforgettable and safe summer vacation at World Cup 2026.”
Alexi Lalas attends the official brand launch of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Griffiths Observatory on May 17, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. (Katelyn Mulcahy – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Lalas also supported the United States men’s ice hockey team following their gold medal victory in Milan Cortina. He said in a post on X that he hopes “USMNT/USWNT players are watching and taking note” regarding the players’ patriotism.
“Genuine love, respect and appreciation for your country (or lack thereof) will show on the field. Win or lose, people want to be inspired, united and proud. Celebrating your country is beautiful and fun… it’s also smart.”
Lalas also attended the State of the Union address, where the men’s ice hockey team was honored with a standing ovation.
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