Increasing Tensions: Call to Boycott the US World Cup on the Rise
Doubts have already been raised regarding the United States’ legitimacy as host of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which is set to take place this summer across the North American continent. The questioning followed a series of geopolitical declarations and actions taken by the US government in the last few months. Political figures from diverse countries had pointed out that the capture of Maduro by US military forces and recent visa restrictions were opposed to FIFA values and international law, and as such, the US should be stripped of its right to host the Soccer World Cup. This week, new tensions have arisen that have once again put into question the United States’ position as a World Cup host.
48 teams are set to play against each other in this year’s eagerly awaited FIFA World Cup. FIFA has never sold as many tickets for games in its entire history. Such an event must be viewed as an international sports festival, bringing together individuals from around the world with one common passion: soccer. It is not only natural, but necessary, to think about the political implications that hosting this championship implies. The image of a global sport is the image of the world, indicating where the power and support lie. Actions like this might only be symbolic, but sports have constantly been used as a banner of political and social thought. Just look back on the ‘Miracle on Ice’ episode and what it meant in terms of world ideologies amidst military tensions. FIFA is at a crossroads, with no official statements yet made regarding the turmoil these events have sparked.
Just this week, a member of the executive committee of the German Soccer Confederation called upon Germany to boycott the US World Cup after the declarations made against the sovereignty of Denmark over Greenland. This has caused controversy, especially in Europe, where the US government plans to impose tariffs on eight of the countries that oppose the takeover. Although this is just one individual from the Bundesliga who made the statement, he joins more people who have already expressed their concern over the same matter. Other countries, like France, have chosen to stay out of the conflict, signaling their desire to maintain this event solely within the sport realm. The question remains whether the fraternity of soccer is threatened by politics or not. It is not good news that a boycott is being discussed; however, it is important news. Not just for soccer fans, but for the world.
