In sports, some teams are known not just for winning or losing, but for how deeply they polarize fans. Love them or loathe them, these teams spark fierce emotions and endless debate.
Whether it’s in soccer, baseball, or beyond, they often symbolize power, controversy, and legacy—all rolled into one. This article takes a closer look at ten of the most divisive teams in world sports and unpacks what makes them so widely loved—and just as widely hated.
10. Mumbai Indians (Cricket)
Once a beloved franchise, Mumbai Indians have become the IPL’s most polarizing team. The controversial captaincy switch from Rohit Sharma to Hardik Pandya sparked fan outrage. Poor performances, questionable tactics, and perceived internal discord have further fueled the animosity, making them the league’s current villains.
9. Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has become the most despised team in France’s Ligue 1. Their dominance, fueled by massive financial backing, has led to 9 league titles in 11 years. And, despite a star-studded roster, PSG’s inability to win the Champions League has intensified resentment from rival fans.
8. Juventus
Juventus, Italy’s most successful club, has become Serie A’s most despised team. Their dominance, controversial decisions, and financial power fuel resentment. In the 2024-25 season, Juventus faced unprecedented struggles, recording their worst start in 14 years, further intensifying rival fans’ schadenfreude.
7. Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich’s dominance in German football has made them the most hated team in the Bundesliga. With countless league titles and a record 11 consecutive championships, their success breeds resentment among rival fans. The club’s financial power and ability to poach top talents from competitors further fuels the animosity.
6. Real Madrid
Real Madrid, despite their immense success, are widely disliked in La Liga. Their “Galácticos” policy of signing superstar players and perceived favoritism from referees fuel resentment. A 2018 study revealed that 35% of Spanish football fans dislike Barcelona, while 30% express negative feelings towards Real Madrid, making them the two most unpopular clubs in Spain.
5. Manchester United
Once a dominant force in English football, Manchester United has become the most despised team in the Premier League. Their fall from grace, coupled with financial mismanagement and poor on-field performances, has made them a target for ridicule. Not to mention, United’s struggles have intensified the animosity from rival fans.
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4. Boston Bruins
The Boston Bruins consistently top lists of most hated NHL teams. Their physical, sometimes dirty play style and players like Brad Marchand, known for his agitating tactics, contribute to their unpopularity. The team’s success, including six Stanley Cup victories, also fuels resentment from rival fans.
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3. Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are both beloved and despised, making them one of the most polarizing teams in the NBA. Their storied history, star-studded lineups, and 17 championships have garnered a massive fanbase, but also intense rivalry. Only 57% of West Coast fans approve of the Lakers, while nine other NBA teams’ fanbases actively dislike them.
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2. New York Yankees
The New York Yankees are widely considered the most hated team in Major League Baseball. Their 27 World Series championships, high payroll, and perceived arrogance contribute to widespread animosity. A FiveThirtyEight poll revealed that 27% of baseball fans named the Yankees as their least favorite team, far surpassing any other franchise.
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1. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys, once dubbed “America’s Team,” now hold the title of the NFL’s most polarizing franchise. Despite their historic success, the Cowboys’ massive media coverage, Jerry Jones’ controversial ownership, and their “America’s Team” moniker have fueled widespread resentment. Recent polls show the Cowboys as both the most loved and hated team across different U.S. regions.
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