Tag Archives: Football

Tom Cannavo

On The Fifa Scandal

Flag_of_FIFA

Fifa has dominated the headlines since the end of last week when seven executives of soccer’s governing body were arrested together during a meeting on the upcoming elections for the organization’s President.

Of the 47 counts, not one involves Sepp Blatter, the organization’s newly re-elected President. The investigation by both the United States and Switzerland is ongoing, however. Blatter could still be indicted.

FIFA is well known internationally for its corrupt practices, and many in the soccer world are hoping that Blatter is eventually indicted. Critics of Fifa have pointed to their absolute monopoly and fault it for fostering corrupt practices and an inefficient market.

The charges were levied against a total of fourteen people connected to the corruption. Those charges include money laundering, racketeering, and conspiracy. The charges date back 24 years and include bribes to officials for marketing rights and World Cup bids.

Though Fifa’s corruption has been the worst kept secret among soccer fans and officials, the corruption within the organization was finally outed by the United States Department of Justice. Pretty much every soccer fan on social media pointed out the irony of The United States being the country to take them down since aren’t the best soccer fans. The investigation took place over a number of years and included a number of informants.

The Fifa World Cup is the biggest international sporting event in the world and is a huge money-maker for Fifa. The next two World Cups will be held in Russia and Qatar. Though the former is definitely suspect because of their own alleged corruption, the second is even more questionable.

Qatar is a small but rich country. It is on of the last dictatorships and survives on the sweat of the poor from nearby countries. In addition, during June and July when the tournament is held temperatures reach 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

More arrests are sure to come. Stay tuned!

 

Rugby, Tom Cannavo

The Top Countries For International Rugby

It’s 2015, The World Cup of Rugby is approaching. With that in mind let’s look at the top teams in International Rugby Play.

IRB-Rugby

New Zealand – A constant at the top of the world rankings, also known as All Blacks. The team has won two World Cups in the short history of the trophy. They are also the current champions.

South Africa – Also known as the Springbooks, South Africa is a feared opponent and and easily has the most storied history. Their first World Cup appearance resulted in a championship and was critical in helping the country out of apartheid.

Ireland – Recently jumping up in the rankings, The Irish team is seeing its highest ranking in history. It consists of both Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland.

England – With two World Cup Finals appearances and 26 Six Nations Championship victories, The English National Team is looking tough for 2015.

Australia – Also known as the Wallabies, Australia always seems to show up in the World Cup. They have won twice.

Wales – Another strong team, The Welsh also have 26 Six Nations Championship victories. Though they haven’t had the best showing in the World Cup, they are a force to be reckoned with.

France – France has a powerful team and have made the finals of the World Cup three times, losing all three times. They have only lost twice at home. This year’s World Cup is in England.

Scotland – The British are good at rugby, this much is evident. Their best showing in the World Cup, however, is fourth place.

Argentina – Not a country you associate with rugby, but they are internationally feared in the rugby world. As best team in the Americas by far their highest ranking was third in 2008.

Samoa – AKA Manu Samua. The country is well known for producing large athletic people and they love rugby. Just don’t ask them to play on Sunday, many are devout Christians.