28th November 2022

RANT: “The World Cup is not just a great global sporting event, it is also inscribed with much deeper cultural and political importance.” – Martin Jacques

Whether you have an interest in soccer or not, the game can, in many ways, serve as a measure of a country’s sense of humanity. The decision to award Qatar the right to host the final of this once-universal competition sparked widespread controversy, unsurprisingly so. There is little doubt that corruption and self-interest played a decisive role in the successful bid. This tiny, independent, sovereign state, better known for its arid desert, futuristic skyline, and predominantly Muslim population of just under three million, has little historical connection with the game of soccer, or indeed sport in general.

And yet, I would argue that for once, we might set aside the obvious wrongs and consider the broader benefits of such a choice of venue. Qatar’s rulers and population have shown a desire to be part of this global game, embracing many of the trappings that come with it. In doing so, they have opened their borders, and, one hopes, their minds, to external influences. Whether or not these bear fruit in the years to come remains to be seen, but at the very least, this moment has given the wider Arab world a common focal point and a step toward acceptance in the eyes of the world’s vastly differing cultures.

Did not the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan showcase the emerging skill of Asian players? Likewise, the 2010 tournament in South Africa did the same for African talent, many of whom now star in leading teams across Europe and the Americas.

Being granted the privilege to host or compete in an international sporting event like the World Cup is a powerful symbol of a nation’s recognition and inclusion on the world stage. On 20th July 2021, the International Olympic Committee amended its long-standing motto to reflect the unifying power of sport and the importance of global solidarity: “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.”

It is encouraging to note that even Russia, once among the sport’s powerhouses, has been given the red card by the global community following its illegitimate invasion of Ukraine. Exclusion from international competition sends a powerful and simple message: unacceptable behaviour will not be rewarded. This not only lays down a marker for governments but also delivers a signal that their populations cannot ignore. As a Russian proverb aptly puts it: “Сила есть, ума не надо” – “If you have strength, you don’t need brains.”

Equally concerning is the situation with China, an authoritarian government with ambitions towards Taiwan. Though officially still named the Republic of China, Taiwan’s government and population overwhelmingly reject any notion of rule from the mainland. Let us hope the world is not plunged into yet another catastrophic scenario born of one man’s ideology. If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it is that global problems require collective effort and unity, not isolation and division. As a Chinese proverb wisely states: “When the winds of change blow, some build walls while others build windmills.”

BLOG:

The consequence of an over-ambitious nine-mile ramble a couple of weeks ago has been a very sore left foot. In an effort to take things easy and aid recovery, I’ve confined myself mostly to Willow Bank, staying as inactive as possible. My only real foray into the outside world came after watching the England v New Zealand game in the garden room with Sean and Paul. Following an unexpectedly dramatic 25:25 draw, we walked to Venetos for an Italian meal and then on to the nearby Red Cow for further refreshments. It was less than a mile in total, but enough, sadly, to reset my foot’s recovery back to square one. Will I never learn?

The nation’s morale was given a much-needed lift with England’s emphatic 7:2 win over Iran and Wales’s hard-earned 1:1 draw against a strong USA side in their opening World Cup matches. But, depressingly, as seems so often the case on this small island, our national teams have a habit of building up our hopes, only to shatter them on the rocks of despair. Just a few days later, Wales succumbed 2:0 to Iran, while England played out a listless 1:1 draw against a far more motivated American side.

On 26th November, I joined a large group of friends in the garden room to watch England take on South Africa in the rugby. It was another painful performance from the boys in white, who were ominously brushed aside by a powerful and well-drilled opposition. Afterwards, three of us made our way into town to soothe our disappointment with a splendid meal at the only remaining Chinese restaurant in Harborough. We continued the evening with a return visit to the Red Cow to further drown our sorrows.

Barely 24 hours later, on Sunday afternoon, the same trio found themselves en route to Leicester to watch the Tigers take on London Irish, having been gifted three corporate tickets for the game. The day began with a sumptuous three-course pre-match meal and suitable refreshments before we took our seats to witness a high-energy clash. The Tigers narrowly edged their opponents 33:31 in a thrilling contest featuring moments of brilliance from both sides. At half-time, we were treated to a generous spread of cheese and crackers alongside chocolate brownies, followed by sausage rolls and curry pies at full-time. The hospitality at Leicester Tigers is second to none, and undoubtedly one of the reasons the club remains the most supported in the Premiership.

Two days later, on the 28th, I was due to collect Jamie from Waltham on the Wold and take him to an afternoon appointment at the fracture clinic at Leicester Royal Infirmary. However, upon attempting to reverse my Fiesta out of the garage, I discovered the rear brakes had seized solid. Despite much revving and coaxing, the wheels refused to turn. I suspect it was the result of having driven through a flooded section of road in the Welland Valley the previous week and then leaving the car unused.

With no time to call a mechanic, I switched to Sue’s Mini Clubman instead. I collected Jamie and made for the hospital, only to be met by a painfully slow-moving queue for the car park. By the time I had dropped him at the main entrance and parked up, then made my way to the clinic waiting room, Jamie had already been seen and discharged. Fortunately, the news was good: the fracture is healing well, and he has been booked in for a follow-up x-ray in four weeks.

In other news, Lee enjoyed an early birthday treat courtesy of Sarah, a trip to London with a visit to Westminster. A thoughtful surprise and a fine way to mark the occasion.

To end on a reflective note, a few proverbs have lingered in my thoughts this week:

“When one has power, they don’t have a need for intelligence.” — Russian proverb
“When the winds of change blow, some build walls, others build windmills.” — Chinese proverb
“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” — An English proverb that needs no translation.

Each speaks volumes about leadership, adaptability, and restraint. Qualities we could do with more of, both in the world of politics and beyond.