Football Ramble Mailbag: Who can - and should - actually host a World Cup?
Jun 17, 2025
The conversation dives into the complex criteria for hosting a World Cup, pondering if any nations can escape political backlash. The team also examines football managers' legacies, spotlighting legends like Guardiola and Klopp. They share nostalgia around iconic commentators and playfully speculate which goalkeepers could shine as outfield players. Plus, there's lighthearted banter on which managers would make entertaining podcast hosts. It's a mix of humor and insightful analysis that keeps the discussion lively!
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Politics and waste in hosting
- Hosting World Cups has become highly political, often involving controversy and wasteful spending.
- Returning to countries with existing infrastructure could prevent stadiums becoming white elephants.
FIFA's role in hosting criteria
- FIFA should ensure tournaments are safe and welcoming for all, especially regarding human rights.
- Political controversies unrelated to safety are a minefield FIFA currently avoids entangling itself in.
FIFA should aid tournament legacy
- FIFA should be more hands-on to help host countries maintain stadiums and infrastructure after the tournament.
- Regular check-ins over years can ensure long-term positive legacy, avoiding venues becoming white elephants.