Colombian political candidate Abelardo de la Espriella has recruited several high-profile athletes, including Nairo Quintana and Carlos “El Pibe” Valderrama, for his “La selección del Tigre” campaign. However, AFP Factual has confirmed that a widely circulated image showing Colombian footballers supporting the candidate was created using artificial intelligence.
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Key Campaign Details
- Athletes involved: Nairo Quintana, Luis Borja, Carlos Valderrama, and Faustino Asprilla.
- Campaign branding: “La selección del Tigre.”
- Controversy: AI-generated imagery used to simulate athlete support.
- Timeline: 15 days remaining before the presidential second round.
Which athletes are supporting the campaign?
According to reports from La Silla Vacía, the campaign has secured adhesions from prominent sporting figures, specifically naming cyclist Nairo Quintana, footballer Luis Borja, and legendary player Carlos “El Pibe” Valderrama. Infobae reports these figures are part of a broader push to build momentum for “La selección del Tigre.”
Additionally, Revista Semana reports that Faustino Asprilla has caused a significant stir with his involvement, coming just 15 days before the second round of the presidential elections.
How did AI imagery impact the narrative?
While the campaign has gained genuine sporting endorsements, AFP Factual identified a specific image of Colombian footballers making a gesture of support for De la Espriella as a fabrication. The agency confirmed the photo was produced using artificial intelligence rather than being a record of a real event.
Why is the campaign focusing on celebrities?
The strategy behind these endorsements has drawn scrutiny from El País, which reports that De la Espriella is running a campaign that prominently features the faces of celebrities and athletes while intentionally hiding the identities of his political allies. This approach prioritizes the visibility of “farándula” (show business and celebrity) over traditional political transparency.
