Lasse Lehtinen explains why he's skipping the World Cup
Translated from Finnish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
Analysis
Sources not specified
Context piece
- Journalist and former politician Lasse Lehtinen, a long-time attendee of World Cup and European Championship matches since 1992, found it difficult to attend this year but was ultimately saved by Canada.
- Lehtinen draws a parallel between communism and football, stating that while the game itself is in excellent form, its administration has been corrupted by the oldest and most serious human vice: corruption.
- Despite the administrative issues, Lehtinen acknowledges that the game of football is currently stronger than ever.
Lasse Lehtinen, a seasoned observer of international football and a former politician, has a history of attending World Cup and European Championship matches dating back to 1992. This year, however, the prospect of attending proved challenging, though he ultimately found a way, with Canada playing a role in enabling his attendance.
The idea is good, but the guys have ruined it, as was once said about communism. The same can be said about football, that global microcosm.
Lehtinen reflects on the state of football, drawing a stark comparison to the fate of communism. He posits that while the game itself is thriving and perhaps stronger than ever, its governing bodies have been deeply tarnished by corruption. This, he argues, is the oldest and most pervasive human failing, which has unfortunately corrupted the sport's administration.
The game's administration has been ruined by humanity's oldest and most serious vice: corruption.
Despite these administrative woes, Lehtinen maintains that the actual play on the field remains exceptional. The passion and skill displayed by players continue to make football a globally beloved sport, even as its leadership faces scrutiny for ethical breaches. The contrast between the purity of the game and the corruption within its governance highlights a significant tension within the world of football.
The game itself is in better shape than ever.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Helsingin Sanomat in Finnish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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