Johan Esk: I doubt the World Cup will be Trump's big PR party
Translated from Swedish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
Analysis
Sources not specified
Context piece
- Columnist Johan Esk doubts the upcoming World Cup will serve as a major public relations event for Donald Trump.
- Esk questions whether Trump will even attend any matches, suggesting the event may not be the PR boost he anticipates.
- The article contrasts the current political climate surrounding the World Cup with historical instances of political interference in the tournament.
Columnist Johan Esk expresses skepticism about the upcoming World Cup in the USA becoming a significant public relations triumph for President Donald Trump. Esk questions the extent of Trump's involvement, even wondering if he will attend any matches, suggesting the event might not deliver the anticipated PR boost.
I am not so sure that Trump will win. I doubt that the World Cup will be Trump's big PR party.
The article draws parallels with past World Cups that were influenced by political figures and regimes. It recalls instances like Kuwait's football chief, a prince, intervening in a match in 1982, and historical hostings under dictatorships such as Franco's Spain, Mussolini's Italy, and Argentina's military junta. This historical context frames the current situation, where Trump's shadow looms over the tournament.
Will he even go to any matches?
Esk highlights the political complexities surrounding the event, noting that the World Cup is shared with Mexico and Canada, two countries Trump has previously criticized. The article points to the case of a World Cup referee from Somalia, Omar Artan, being denied entry into the USA, a country facing stringent visa requirements under Trump's policies. This incident, coupled with FIFA President Gianni Infantino's perceived deference to Trump, underscores the political undercurrents affecting the tournament.
The funniest mix of football and politics is 44 years old.
Furthermore, the piece touches upon Iran's participation, a nation that has faced recent attacks from the USA. Despite the geopolitical tensions, Iran is set to play in the World Cup hosted by the USA. The article also mentions Iran's base in Mexico and the logistical challenges of their travel arrangements, adding another layer to the intricate political landscape of this World Cup.
The football against Donald Trump.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Dagens Nyheter in Swedish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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