US actions in Venezuela put the 2026 World Cup in disgraceful company | Leander Schaerlaeckens

The text discusses the troubling history of FIFA's World Cup being hosted by authoritarian regimes. In 1934, Italy under Benito Mussolini used the event for propaganda and expansionist aims, despite his established tyrannical rule. Mussolini manipulated the tournament's staging and even replaced the trophy. Similarly, in 1978, Argentina's military junta hosted the World Cup while committing human rights abuses. The international community largely ignored the atrocities, allowing the games to proceed. The author suggests this pattern continues with the 2026 World Cup, hinting at potential ethical concerns. The text highlights a disturbing trend of FIFA prioritizing political gain over human rights. The author has written a book related to this topic, focusing on the United States men's national soccer team. The book is titled "The Long Game" and will be released in May. The author teaches at Marist University.