The Qatar World Cup Exposes Soccer’s Shame
The absurd spectacle of a tiny Gulf petrostate hosting the world’s premier tournament reveals the ugly side of “the beautiful game.”
Sports
Radio Atlantic: For Love of the Game
In this episode of Radio Atlantic, the staff writer Clint Smith talks about the complicated feelings he has for soccer, and which teams and players shaped his love of the sport.
A Short History of Brazilian Soccer
Staff writers Franklin Foer and Clint Smith talk about which teams they’re rooting for in the 2022 World Cup, and give a lesson about one of the most storied teams in soccer.
How to Cheer for America
When I watch the World Cup, I’m celebrating not what this country is, but what it can be.
Enjoying Soccer in Its Dark Age
Franklin Foer discusses what makes this year’s game so hard to watch—and what it says about the world in 2022.
A Spectacle of Scoundrels
The 2022 Qatar World Cup may be the tournament’s most detestable yet. I’ll be watching anyway.
The Sport of Short Kings
Soccer is where mini monarchs reign supreme.
America Ruined College Football. Now College Football Is Ruining America.
Coaches shouldn’t be senators.
America Has Made a Monster Out of Pickleball
The country’s hottest sport was all fun and games—until celebrities got involved.
The Phillie Phanatic’s Biggest Phan
To me, this fluffy green mascot is the real star of baseball’s World Series.