soccer
The Petrodollar Pitch
Manchester City pioneered two new models for soccer: Gulf state-backed ownership and the global multiclub network. The verdict against the club, coming as war with Iran squeezes Arab economies, may end both.
Native Son
Since 1973, South Korean athletes who win Olympic medals or Asian Games gold have been spared most of their military service, a reward that has put unusual pressure on Korean soccer and shaped the careers of stars like Son Heung-min.
The Politics Behind Africa’s Support for Gianni Infantino
As FIFA’s president faces growing criticism over his plans for the organization, African soccer leaders remain among his strongest supporters. But with many federations dependent on FIFA funding, questions remain over how much political influence Africa is getting in return.
How the World Cup Helped America See Itself Afresh
Foreign soccer fans fell in love with America during the World Cup, from Boston to Lawrence, Kansas. Americans, in turn, loved watching the viral videos those visitors made about their adventures here. What might Americans learn about their own country from this summer romance?
The Ghosts of the 1982 Falklands War Haunt the Argentina-England Match
When Argentina and England square off in the World Cup, it is much more than a game of soccer — it unearths a long history between the two nations and conjures the ghosts of the 1982 Falklands war. That history weighs heavily on Argentines.
Latin American Fans Are Turning Their Backs on Argentina
In Qatar 2022, Argentina could count on the support of the rest of the region. This time the tide has turned, with many rooting against their neighbor.
Sports and Legitimacy in Eastern Libya
As Benghazi hosts European soccer giants and boxing celebrities, Khalifa Haftar’s regime in eastern Libya is betting on sports and reconstruction to win over Libyans and the West.