Slate Daily Feed Hang Up | FIFA's Trumpy World Cup Draw
Dec 8, 2025
Adam Crafton, a soccer reporter for The Athletic, shares insights from FIFA's extravagant World Cup draw influenced by a longstanding connection with Donald Trump. He discusses concerns over logistics and the U.S. team’s group expectations. Jordan Bianchi, a motorsports reporter, delves into the ongoing NASCAR antitrust trial involving Michael Jordan, explaining the financial stakes and competitive landscape challenges. He highlights significant courtroom moments that could reshape NASCAR's future and reveals the intricacies of the case against the sport's governance.
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FIFA's Political Pageantry
- FIFA cultivated a highly staged, Trump-friendly draw to secure political wining with the White House and concessions.
- Adam Crafton says FIFA traded optics for access, evident in the Kennedy Center spectacle and tailored entertainment.
Access Bought Practical Concessions
- Infantino's frequent Oval Office visits gave FIFA leverage to secure policy concessions like expedited visas.
- Crafton notes FIFA's access produced practical wins (FIFA pass) despite reputational cost.
A Friendly Group For The U.S.
- The U.S. group is relatively favorable, boosting home-team expectations without elite opponents.
- Crafton forecasts a realistic US target of the round of 16 with quarterfinals plausible but not the title.