A Strange World Cup

The author finds the current World Cup to feel "weird," contrasting it with the nostalgic memories of the 1990 tournament. Back then, the World Cup was a unifying event, a moment when the world seemed to pause, accompanied by personal milestones like graduations and shared experiences of cheering for teams, even amidst disappointment. The song "Un'estate italiana" became more than just music; it was the soundtrack to a summer that captivated a global audience.

This unifying power was a form of "soft diplomacy" for host nations. Spain used it to project its newfound democracy, France its universality, Germany its amiability, South Africa its reconciliation, Brazil its joy, and Russia its less threatening image. Each nation used the World Cup as a "showcase" and an "invitation," but crucially, these messages were backed by concrete actions and internal realities. Spain had moved past Franco's era, France showcased a diverse team, Germany had reconciled with its past, and South Africa had defeated apartheid.

However, this World Cup's triple hosting has diluted the experience of getting to know one culture. The author notes the significant cultural differences between hosts like Mexico and its co-hosts, and assumes Canada might wish to distance itself from its southern neighbor. The United States has taken center stage, but its message of "Ready to welcome the world once again" rings hollow.

The author questions the sincerity of this welcome, referencing the incongruence of potential ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) presence. The core issue, as articulated by a diplomat, is that external projection must be accompanied by internal congruence. This World Cup, the author suggests, lacks that crucial alignment, making its message of welcome feel disingenuous in the current global climate.