We're rapidly approaching the kickoff to the World Cup in Brazil, which means it's just about time to look forward to the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Some might say that's premature, but some don't have our obsessive interest in the World Cup. And as an added bonus, we have a little extra glimpse into the preparations for the World Cup, in the Winter Olympics broadcast from Sochi this past month.So we're happy to reflect on the lessons that the World Cup can apply from their fellow sportsmen in Sochi.
I. It's going to cost a bunch of money
Just think how it will go when there are 16 cities rather than one!
II. That money's going to people who already have a lot
This is where being an oligarch pal of Vladmir Putin
III. Coke will still get their cut
People won't like that, but it will happen.
IV. There may be threats
That's what you get in a semi-totalitarian state
V. There will be security
That's also what you get in a semi-totalitarian state
VI. Probably too much security
Again...semi-totalitarian state
VII. That'll make some fans uncomfortable
Right on!
VIII. Not to mention the athletes themselves
Though some Spanish strikers would probably fall down and try to draw a foul on the door.
IX. And who knows whether or not that will make FOX uncomfortable
X. Which is okay, because Vladmir Putin probably wants a few fans to feel uncomfortable
Topless protests are encouraged.
XI. But the games will still go on...and we will watch them
Maybe we shouldn't, maybe we oughtn't, maybe we should take a stand, but maybe it's sports and we can make a point and have a good time all at once. Sochi was messy, awkward and conflicted, and you can bet that the World Cup will be all that and then some in four years time. But at the end of the day there will be things to cheer and things to question, and we'll do both.
