100 square metres

The head of Germany’s football federation, Theo Zwanziger, called on Wednesday for FIFA to re-examine the awarding of the 2022 World Cup to Qatar over bribery allegations.

Ka-ching indeed.

I know, I know… more on this Qatar 2022 business, but David Goldblatt’s piece for Foreign Policy is an excellent read, promoting the highs and lows of the decision and bid. Among them is:

The central issue for the Qatari bid, far more significant than its size or location, is the weather. The daytime temperature exceeds 110 degrees Fahrenheit for much of June and July when the tournament is played; it drops only to the 80s at night, if at all. FIFA’s own report went as far as to suggest that this presented a real health and safety hazard for players and fans. The Qataris responded with an audaciously hi-tech proposal claiming that they will play most games at night and build 10 zero-carbon, air-conditioned stadiums. After the tournament, part or all of these facilities will be dismantled and reassembled in the developing world.

Also: Homosexuality is illegal, accommodation is scarce, alcohol is extremely controlled while public drunkenness is criminal, and let’s reiterate that its over 40-fucking-degrees Celsius during the day.

In conclusion: OMFG.

(Source: foreignpolicy.com)

ka-ching, FIFA?

Can you still bbq an Octopus that died of natural causes?

Spain’s victory in the 2010 World Cup final has been widely greeted as a victory for football - not just because winning the trophy was reward for their attractive and progressive passing style, but also because their opponents Netherlands adopted an overtly physical approach, especially…

We all thought last Sunday’s final was played rather dirty. Fussballmeister breaks down some other ugly bouts in the beautiful game.

(link via Grace in Small Things)

Uh huh — Mr. Webb did not seem very calm under the pressure of refereeing this World Cup match. Nor did he do his part to add to the “controversy free” tournament.