In recent times, the world of football has witnessed a series of seemingly unrelated events that, upon closer examination, reveal a web of connections that may leave you bewildered. From a Saudi Arabian World Cup to baffling VAR decisions and David Beckham’s questionable praise for Qatar’s World Cup, the pieces of the puzzle are falling into place. But there is no need for wild conspiracy theories; the truth lies right before our eyes.
FIFA’s recent announcement about the 2030 men’s tournament may appear extravagant at first glance, with matches spanning three continents and teams traveling up to 6,000 miles between venues. Critics have rightly decried the environmental impact of such a setup. However, hidden beneath the surface, there’s a peculiar sustainability to this madness. The increased oil revenues generated by the long-haul migrations of “Everywhere 2030” are poised to cover the costs of Saudi Arabia’s own World Cup in 2034. It’s a sustainability paradox, where one World Cup funds another, reminiscent of the war that Russia, the 2018 World Cup host, helped initiate, indirectly contributing to Qatar’s 2022 World Cup infrastructure.
The key to understanding FIFA’s decision on “Everywhere 2030” lies in the realm of political compromise. FIFA has seemingly moved away from the traditional bidding system, opting for host-sharing as a more reliable source of power. Under this new approach, FIFA can potentially award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia, given the Asian Football Confederation’s support. Amid talk of expanding the game and the flourishing Saudi league, the real agenda is likely to secure sponsorship deals and link FIFA’s fortunes to the cash flow of Vision 2030.
However, the ethical dilemma presented by Saudi Arabia’s repressive regime with its punitive policies against homosexuality, human rights abuses, and prohibition of humanitarian organizations stands in direct contrast to FIFA’s principles of equality and freedom that it claims to support. Rewarding such a state with one of the premier sporting events raises uncomfortable questions.
But this issue goes deeper than just football; it touches upon social disenfranchisement and alienation in society as a whole. Conspiracy theories find fertile ground when people feel marginalized and powerless. Authority has repeatedly proven itself untrustworthy, leading to skepticism and suspicion.
In reality, the conspiracy is not some hidden agenda orchestrated by a shadowy cabal. It’s an overt and very public conspiracy—powerful interests joining forces to maintain their dominance. Football provides a snapshot of a larger societal issue: one where money and power often come before all other considerations.
At first glance, it seems clear that the announcements of both 2030 and 2034 World Cups represent more than football; they represent a symbolic global arena where money and power rule. Though conspiracy theories might arise during our search for answers, reality can always be found out there for anyone willing to see it.
Football provides us with an eye-opening window into society’s issues and priorities; perhaps now is an opportune moment for reflection on these matters.
