Tone-deaf Barca sets up #WeAreAllLeoMessi campaign after tax sentence

Barcelona wants people to embrace their inner tax fraud.

On Saturday, a cringe-worthy campaign was unveiled by Barcelona in which the Blaugrana encourages "the world to express its sympathy" for Lionel Messi, who, along with his father, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for tax fraud three days ago.

Neither Messi nor his father are expected to spend any time behind bars as sentences of less than two years are usually suspended in Spain, but that didn't stop Barcelona from asking for compassion.

From Barcelona's official website:

FC Barcelona has set up a campaign in support of Leo Messi following the sentence issued this week against the Argentinian and his father.

Using the hashtag #WeAreAllLeoMessi while posting a photo or message with both hands open, the campaign is encouraging all Barca fans to express their sympathy for the greatest footballer in the world by voicing their unconditional support on social networks.

By making it clear that #WeAreAllMessi, we want Leo to know that he is not alone. All members, supporters clubs, fans, athletes, media and everyone else are invited to participate.

Here's a three-step guide for those who are unsure of how to voice their sympathy:

After the sentence was issued, Messi's management announced the sentence will be appealed to the Supreme Court of Spain, which typically takes slightly less than one year to reach a resolution.