Murders, 'Hand of God,' Trump call: 23 World Cup scandals

The history of the FIFA World Cup is marred by numerous scandals, ranging from alleged murders to controversial decisions and political interference. The article delves into 23 such incidents that have cast a shadow over the sport's premier tournament.

These controversies highlight that the World Cup is often more than just a sporting event, echoing the sentiment of author Terry Pratchett, who noted, "The most important thing to know about football is that it is not just about football." The scandals discussed involve a wide spectrum of issues, including match-fixing allegations, doping controversies, and political pressures.

From the infamous "Hand of God" incident involving Diego Maradona to the alleged "murder" surrounding certain tournaments and even a "Trump call" related to a bid, the World Cup has seen its share of dark moments. These events have often sparked debate and scrutiny, questioning the integrity and governance of the sport.

The article aims to shed light on these less glamorous aspects of World Cup history, reminding readers that behind the spectacle and national pride, a complex web of controversies has often played out.

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The most important thing to know about football is that it is not just about football.