This text discusses the significance of Argentinian soccer, particularly in relation to the achievements of Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. It highlights the triumphs and heartbreaks of the Argentinian national team, including their recent victory in the Copa América. The text also addresses the controversy surrounding Messi’s involvement with Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030” plan and the potential impact on Argentina’s bid for the 2030 World Cup. It explores the concept of sportswashing, whereby authoritarian regimes use sporting events to improve their global reputation. The text concludes by acknowledging the growing awareness and scrutiny of sportswashing in international sports and the role of media in exposing such practices.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina’s triumph in Copa América | Change in perception of Messi | Messi embraced as a national hero | Maradona’s death and Copa América victory |
| Argentina’s bid for the 2030 World Cup | Potential loss of bid due to Messi’s ties with Saudi Arabia | Possible change in hosting country for 2030 World Cup | Messi’s involvement with Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030” plan |
| Sportswashing by authoritarian countries | Growing awareness and scrutiny of sportswashing practices | Increased criticism of authoritarian countries hosting global sports events | Media coverage and public awareness |
| Saudi Arabia’s ownership of Newcastle United | Enhanced performance of Newcastle United due to Saudi investment | Newcastle United becomes a top team in the Premier League | Saudi Arabia’s financial support and investment |
| Qatar’s World Cup and sportswashing | Negative coverage of human rights abuses in Qatar | Increased scrutiny and criticism of Qatar’s hosting of the World Cup | Media coverage and public awareness |
| Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich and sportswashing | Abramovich’s ownership of Chelsea Football Club | Abramovich’s influence in Russian-English relations and FIFA’s decision to award Russia the 2018 World Cup | Abramovich’s wealth and connections |
| Growing concern and scrutiny of sportswashing | Increased focus on the practice of sportswashing | Harsher scrutiny of host nations of global sporting events | Media coverage and public awareness |