This is not football but football-washing: courtesan boy, Messi to the Falklands

The FIFA World Cup 2026, set to expand to 48 teams with matches spread across three host nations, has sparked widespread criticism over its perceived lack of genuine sporting value. Critics argue that the tournament has devolved into a spectacle driven more by commercial interests than competitive spirit, with some accusing it of engaging in what they call football-washing, a term used to describe the superficial presentation of football as entertainment while masking deeper issues of exploitation and decay. At the heart of this controversy is Lionel Messi, whose continued presence in international football has drawn particular scrutiny. Despite his age and physical limitations, Messi remains a central figure in Argentina’s national team, often playing despite injuries and fatigue. This has led to accusations that his inclusion is less about athletic performance and more about maintaining a mythos around him as the "best player in the world." Such claims have been echoed by critics who point to the broader decline in quality and passion within modern football, comparing current performances to the golden eras of players like Pelé and Garrincha. The critique extends beyond individual players to the structure of the tournament itself. With games scheduled across multiple countries and a calendar filled with seemingly insignificant fixtures, many observers feel the competition lacks the excitement and unpredictability once associated with global football. The focus appears increasingly on marketing and media exposure rather than on the pure joy of the game. This sentiment was notably expressed during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where commentators were accused of indulging in overly emotional and sometimes controversial commentary, blurring the lines between sports journalism and fanaticism. Critics also highlight the financial undercurrents driving these changes. The expansion of the World Cup to include more teams and host nations is seen as a strategy to maximize revenue through increased broadcasting rights and sponsorships. However, this comes at the expense of traditional values such as fair play and the integrity of the sport. Some argue that the tournament has become a platform for political maneuvering, with decisions influenced by powerful stakeholders rather than purely sporting merit. Among the figures scrutinized in this context is Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA. His leadership has been characterized by a blend of pragmatism and compromise, with some viewing him as a puppet master navigating the complex web of interests within football. His role in facilitating the expansion of the World Cup has drawn both praise and criticism, with supporters arguing that it brings greater inclusivity and others claiming it dilutes the essence of the competition. As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, the debate over the future of football intensifies. While some see the expanded format as a necessary evolution, others warn that it risks further eroding the sport's cultural and historical significance. The challenge will be to balance commercial viability with the preservation of football’s soul, a task that seems increasingly difficult in an era defined by spectacle and profit.