a stupid bribed filled decision. What fool would not understand that alcohol related products would be banned. Then again, about 90% of fights have just been eliminated...
I’m all for banning alcohol if it’s against the laws of their country, but to sell tickets to people who thought that they’d be able to drink, and then ban it’s sale two days before the event starts is ridiculous.
I’m all for banning alcohol if it’s against the laws of their country, but to sell tickets to people who thought that they’d be able to drink, and then ban it’s sale two days before the event starts is ridiculous.
I like to have a couple of beers while attending a game. But the availability of beer would never impact my decision to buy a ticket to a sporting event.
if this was the rule from the get go then fine. But for them to be like yeah we will let you server beer and then literally days before say nah. Thats bullshit. But as others said FIFA is getting what they deserve, they made this bed so they get to sleep in it.
Also generic soccer is boring comments....you guys are nailing it.
Not mentioned in the ESPN article: Champagne, wine, whiskey and
other alcohol is still expected to be served in the luxury hospitality areas of the stadiums. Outside of those places, beer is normally the only alcohol sold to regular ticket holders.
This is correct. It also is the direct opposite of what FIFA imposed on Brazil in the last World Cup.
Clear that FIFA has no control over the situation. I'll watch the games but there's a cloud over this whole thing on many different levels.
Yeh this sucks. I usually get so hyped for WC but as someone that’s seen the suffering first hand in the UAE….fuck that place. Having a hard time enjoying a mindless sporting event when literally thousands of slaves died making it happen.
But when I lived in England in the late 90's early 2000's, beer was banned at soccer matches because of fan fighting.
Kinda different situation dude. England has a billion pubs you can go get blotto at. Qatar has very select places you can drink (and they are either gonna get overwhelmed or they’ll be for guests only)
Sponsor and have an agreement will the world cup to provide all beer.
They are losing millions and will end up suing the WC for the lost revenue.
It's another of 100 reasons they should not have chosen Qatar to host
About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
Qatar screwed them big time, waiting 2 days before it started to pull this.
No one is not showing up but with the media issues, and now no beer, FIFA is worried about what is next.
But if you sleep with dogs, you get fleas.
About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
They set up for fans. Pay thousands of dollars to stay in a shipping box in the middle of a field with no amenities in the boiling sun (once again in a metal hotel room).
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
My comment was tongue in cheek. But I did always find that episode hilarious since there is a bit of truth to sporting events not being as fun sober (depending on sport) for fans who tend to link the two together.
Trust me, I know the Super Bowl would be no less exciting. I usually drink during games, but XLII I stayed dead sober because I wanted to remember the whole thing. XLVI I allowed myself to drink since we had just won XLII and I wanted to relax for that game since I wasn't worried about missing something I hadn't seen in 17 years, it had only been 4.
I was stone cold sober for both XLII & XLVI. I was off the reservation drunk for divisional round vs. Packers in January 2012. Haha.
I was obliterated for the entire 2012 run and 2011 regular season. Hell, for the Patriots regular season game I had a bad case of bronchitis that I couldn't shake and I still went to my usual watering hole and drank my face off and smoked ha ha. Ended up spending 5 days at my then gf's apartment so she could nurse me back to health. And luckily she was an actual nurse at Fairfax Hospital!!!
but for me drinking was really only fun during baseball games. Its the perfect format for food and beer. Drinking during football means you are guaranteed to miss a big play because of a bathroom break.
It's weird. Seems like some folks are rooting for the WC to fail
It won't. It's the biggest sporting spectacle in the world and only grows more massive every 4 years. Fifa is basically printing money. Global soccer is the biggest sport in the world with enormous untapped profit potential. And one day, when the US is a true threat to win the WC, maybe 20 or 40 years from now, it will rival the NFL in this country.
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
I’m a pretty big soccer fan. Will be watching less and I’m certainly not alone.
This is the least hyped WC by a mile in my lifetime.
yeah I've got some friends who are actively rooting for the US
Sponsor and have an agreement will the world cup to provide all beer.
They are losing millions and will end up suing the WC for the lost revenue.
It's another of 100 reasons they should not have chosen Qatar to host
I guess, in theory, FIFA could then sue the government of Qatar for their losses. But, who really cares? I don't think too many people are crying for FIFA.
there must be other reasons then - no beer sales make you that upset?
I may watch less than I did in other WC's because I have a kid and work and other engagements. But i absolutely cannot wait for this match on Monday, clearning my schedule for it.
It won't. It's the biggest sporting spectacle in the world and only grows more massive every 4 years. Fifa is basically printing money. Global soccer is the biggest sport in the world with enormous untapped profit potential. And one day, when the US is a true threat to win the WC, maybe 20 or 40 years from now, it will rival the NFL in this country.
I hope the tournament is awesome in terms of games, but its good in the long run if there are logistical issues that prevent them from ever hosting a World Cup somewhere like a Qatar again.
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
So true, especially since most of the millions of fans will be watching on TV or streaming.
RE: It's weird. Seems like some folks are rooting for the WC to fail
It won't. It's the biggest sporting spectacle in the world and only grows more massive every 4 years. Fifa is basically printing money. Global soccer is the biggest sport in the world with enormous untapped profit potential. And one day, when the US is a true threat to win the WC, maybe 20 or 40 years from now, it will rival the NFL in this country.
I don't think anyone is hoping for the WC to fail as much as nobody is going to cry for FIFA or the WC because they made the decision to take the dirty money on their own.
RE: It's weird. Seems like some folks are rooting for the WC to fail
But watched "Welcome to Wrexham" on Hulu and really enjoyed it and gave us a real perspective on what all these teams mean to their fans.
Highly recommend it btw.
Between that and Ted Lasso I'm warming up to it.
I've been meaning to check that out. I saw 2 interviews with them , but no clips from the show. Is it more documentary or comedy or a combo?
I’m warming to it due to more exposure. Those two shows and my daughter playing helps. I played football in high school and always saw soccer players as pansies. I watched professional matches live in Europe and the shit they do is impressive
But watched "Welcome to Wrexham" on Hulu and really enjoyed it and gave us a real perspective on what all these teams mean to their fans.
Highly recommend it btw.
Between that and Ted Lasso I'm warming up to it.
I've been meaning to check that out. I saw 2 interviews with them , but no clips from the show. Is it more documentary or comedy or a combo?
It's a documentary but very funny and very engaging. It shows the town, the background of the players and of course the two stars are funny. Watch the first episode you'll be hooked.
RE: RE: RE: This brings to mind the Simpson episode
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
I’m a pretty big soccer fan. Will be watching less and I’m certainly not alone.
This is the least hyped WC by a mile in my lifetime.
I think that's the bigger issue from a fan perspective, really. I recalled it was being moved to the holiday season this time around, but it wasn't until about 1 or 2 weeks ago that I saw the bad commercials with John Hamm as Santa and that has been it. The WC is usually a PR machine at this point. For example, I don't even know when it starts. I know the US first match is vs. Wales, but no clue when. The thing that struck the most in that is I had no idea Wales had a team.
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
They set up for fans. Pay thousands of dollars to stay in a shipping box in the middle of a field with no amenities in the boiling sun (once again in a metal hotel room).
FYI - There wont be any boiling sun now. The weather in the Gulf is superb at this time of year.
They set up for fans. Pay thousands of dollars to stay in a shipping box in the middle of a field with no amenities in the boiling sun (once again in a metal hotel room).
FYI - There wont be any boiling sun now. The weather in the Gulf is superb at this time of year.
Yep, on Tuesday is was a low of 68 and high of 90 where my brother is.
I don't see soccer passing football in my lifetime
but its certainly possible it happens one day. The MLS is doing well and is very healthy. Their deal with Apple is going to be huge. They (and MMA/UFC for different reasons) seem to be ahead of the curve on various components of the "experience". That will go a long way into growth. And that's what will be needed to get more top athletes to stay in soccer vs. pursuing basketball/football, etc.
My daughter is on the U8 premier team and i'm so impressed with how much more access she has to better coaching and playing almost year round, than I did in the 90's. I really do think there's going to be a huge bump in interest over the next 10-20 years, its virtually inevitable with the strides made in the Youth leagues.
They set up for fans. Pay thousands of dollars to stay in a shipping box in the middle of a field with no amenities in the boiling sun (once again in a metal hotel room).
FYI - There wont be any boiling sun now. The weather in the Gulf is superb at this time of year.
That’s funny, because we were told that they’d be scorching out there. It seems that there has been a lot of misinformation put out there.
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
a stupid bribed filled decision. What fool would not understand that alcohol related products would be banned. Then again, about 90% of fights have just been eliminated...
I expect increased rioting as an outlet as thousands of sober people realize how boring soccer is.
Just landed in Turkey on his way to Qatar for the WC. He just sent me a pic from the airport. I sent him this thread. He is not happy ha ha. He found out about it yesterday. Younger kid from Ecuador. He's pulling for the US though. He's a huge soccer fan so he's not destroyed about it, but he's definitely not happy.
there must be other reasons then - no beer sales make you that upset?
I may watch less than I did in other WC's because I have a kid and work and other engagements. But i absolutely cannot wait for this match on Monday, clearning my schedule for it.
No slavery and abuse of human rights makes me upset.
Now if I were actually going…yeh that would piss me off. But you gotta be kinda an idiot to not understand what you are getting fyourself into in that part of the world.
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
Woke is not a set of beliefs, it is the attempt to impose those beliefs on others and demand the firing or public silencing of anyone who espouses different beliefs. At least that is what reasonable and intelligent people who oppose the extremes of woke believe.
Of course, you can always find ignorant posts online and use them as straw men
Interestingly from an historical perspective, "woke" is much like the "great awakening" among puritans in the 18th century--both in its good and bad aspects.
For example, in the 18th century when Puritans experienced the "great awakening," they did not
plenty of entitled college kids whining about shit they know nothing about but "woke" is a nonsense fear mongering statement like cultural elites or left wing academia which is right in line with right wing nut job or moral majority.
None of these terms help move any discussion forward.
plenty of entitled college kids whining about shit they know nothing about but "woke" is a nonsense fear mongering statement like cultural elites or left wing academia which is right in line with right wing nut job or moral majority.
None of these terms help move any discussion forward.
About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Yeh sure, but it takes the fun out of life when you are watching a friggin game that 1000s died for and untold misery. It would be one thing if something was being done, but the UAE and Qatar attract some of the worst people in the world…. so nothing will be.
Alcohol is haram (forbidden) by all three major schools of Islamic jurisprudence.
In a few places in Quran, it seems like alcohol is being warned against but not absolutely forbidden. However, in one place it is compared to sacrificing to other gods and is described as a product of Satan. Moreover, in the hadith of al-Bukhari, it is clearly forbidden. The hadith are sayings that can be traced directly to the Prophet and have a great deal of authority.
Often, alcohol is treated in Islamic countries the way pot was treated in California: it was illegal but everyone looked the other way if you were discreet and non-public in your usage. However, anyone doing business with a country where their product is technically illegal or haram should be aware that they have a high level of risk and incorporate that risk into their bid for the contract.
plenty of entitled college kids whining about shit they know nothing about but "woke" is a nonsense fear mongering statement like cultural elites or left wing academia which is right in line with right wing nut job or moral majority.
None of these terms help move any discussion forward.
Back to the beer!
What do you drink when it's 110 degrees outside?
Woke is a term that was invented and first employed by the "woke" themselves, starting about ten years ago. It is not a term invented by others or its opponents.
However, since it's fairly pretentious to describe yourself as (woke) as if everyone else is asleep, it attracted ridicule and is now probably used more by opponents than proponents.
But up until maybe three or four years ago, the term "woke" was used by the woke to describe themselves and many strong progressives still use it in defiance of conservative mockery.
RE: I don't see soccer passing football in my lifetime
but its certainly possible it happens one day. The MLS is doing well and is very healthy. Their deal with Apple is going to be huge. They (and MMA/UFC for different reasons) seem to be ahead of the curve on various components of the "experience". That will go a long way into growth. And that's what will be needed to get more top athletes to stay in soccer vs. pursuing basketball/football, etc.
My daughter is on the U8 premier team and i'm so impressed with how much more access she has to better coaching and playing almost year round, than I did in the 90's. I really do think there's going to be a huge bump in interest over the next 10-20 years, its virtually inevitable with the strides made in the Youth leagues.
Maybe soccer won't pass football in the country overall but in some cities I think it will. In places like NY and San Francisco soccer also attracts a lot of non-sports fans.
World Cup is also just a huge global event. You don't really have to follow soccer to get into World Cup.
would be regarding alcohol sales. This last minute ban is nothing but a slap in the face to FIFA and it's business partners.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
They were probably hoping beer sales would be permitted under a license. But the social pressure in the country has likely become too great.
If you think about it, it is really incredible elitism to prohibit something for ordinary people but then allow wealthy outsiders to enter the country and do as they please in complete disregard of the laws and practices.
would be regarding alcohol sales. This last minute ban is nothing but a slap in the face to FIFA and it's business partners.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
Sure, but conversely, FIFA knew full well what Qatar's attitude towards alcohol sales is, and, apparently, didn't include beer sales in the stadiums as part of the contract. The scorpion may be guilty for stinging the frog, but the frog was foolish for letting him onto its back. Or what memelord posted above.
would be regarding alcohol sales. This last minute ban is nothing but a slap in the face to FIFA and it's business partners.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
They were probably hoping beer sales would be permitted under a license. But the social pressure in the country has likely become too great.
If you think about it, it is really incredible elitism to prohibit something for ordinary people but then allow wealthy outsiders to enter the country and do as they please in complete disregard of the laws and practices.
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
RE: RE: RE: Qatar knew full well what the expectations
would be regarding alcohol sales. This last minute ban is nothing but a slap in the face to FIFA and it's business partners.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
They were probably hoping beer sales would be permitted under a license. But the social pressure in the country has likely become too great.
If you think about it, it is really incredible elitism to prohibit something for ordinary people but then allow wealthy outsiders to enter the country and do as they please in complete disregard of the laws and practices.
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Yeh sure, but it takes the fun out of life when you are watching a friggin game that 1000s died for and untold misery. It would be one thing if something was being done, but the UAE and Qatar attract some of the worst people in the world…. so nothing will be.
Fair enough. I respect this viewpoint although it’s the same premise as using iPhones, wearing Nikes, etc.
Was with the Navy and spent 2 months in aggregate in UAE
and another two weeks in Bahrain. You aren’t convincing me differently either. It’s essentially all the things I dislike about America ratcheted up 10 times with anti freedom, anti free speech, and massive human rights abuses thrown in on top of it.
About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Yeh sure, but it takes the fun out of life when you are watching a friggin game that 1000s died for and untold misery. It would be one thing if something was being done, but the UAE and Qatar attract some of the worst people in the world…. so nothing will be.
Fair enough. I respect this viewpoint although it’s the same premise as using iPhones, wearing Nikes, etc.
Not even close to the same. I don’t think you are familiar with what goes on in the Middle East vs Southeast Asia.
Will stay fans if they have to watch the game sober?
Soccer fans are die hard fans. Soccer is a religion. Fans of Brazil will not stop being passionate about the team because they can't drink alcohol in the stadium.
Will stay fans if they have to watch the game sober?
Soccer fans are die hard fans. Soccer is a religion. Fans of Brazil will not stop being passionate about the team because they can't drink alcohol in the stadium.
+1
RE: Returning Vide Taps - You spent two months in the UAE you said?
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Alcohol is haram (forbidden) by all three major schools of Islamic jurisprudence.
In a few places in Quran, it seems like alcohol is being warned against but not absolutely forbidden. However, in one place it is compared to sacrificing to other gods and is described as a product of Satan. Moreover, in the hadith of al-Bukhari, it is clearly forbidden. The hadith are sayings that can be traced directly to the Prophet and have a great deal of authority.
Often, alcohol is treated in Islamic countries the way pot was treated in California: it was illegal but everyone looked the other way if you were discreet and non-public in your usage. However, anyone doing business with a country where their product is technically illegal or haram should be aware that they have a high level of risk and incorporate that risk into their bid for the contract.
There are four schools of jurisprudential thought in Islam, not 3 (Hanafi, Maliki, Hanbali, and Shafi'i). The Quran was revealed over a 23 year span. Alcohol was not banned at first. Muslims were told not to pray in a state of drunkenness. As time passed though, it was forbidden completely (4:42) (2:219).
As far as alcohol in the Gulf is concerned, all I can tell you is that it is all over the place. Plenty of people drink--even locals and Muslims. I don't even want to begin to tell you what I saw there over the span of almost a decade. All I can say is that EVERYONE drinks there, lol. The countries of the Gulf are all about saving face. If you you go to Non-Gulf countries it's more out there. People get drunk as can be when you go camping, in hotels, restaurants, golf clubs, regular clubs, bars, at home, or at parties. It's just regulated and under control. It's readily available. It's hard drugs where the line is absolutely drawn.
RE: RE: Returning Vide Taps - You spent two months in the UAE you said?
With the navy? Correct me if I'm wrong. Which year was this?
2011-2013.
I'm on sabbatical now and am with family in gold ole' Nuevoa Jork and am an academic by trade. I've been in the UAE--specifically Abu Dhabi--from 2014 until 2022. A lot has changed since your time there, and two months is not long enough to make an informed judgment of the place. Lots of expats love it there and make it there home because of how safe it is and th weather during this time of year. Not saying those human rights concerns aren't there. They most certainly are, but you are privileged there as a westerner and are given lots of leeway to do things.
There are plenty of nationalities there and it's a smorgasbord. Over time you find a group of like-minded people and become friendly with each other. The biggest problem is the place's transient nature. Lots of other ex-pats never really make the adjustment. You are right about one thing: people are there for the money from everywhere. Lots of laws are being passed and changed now, specifically in the emirate of Dubai. Each emirate has it's own specific character, but Abu Dhabi is the one calling the shots (the Al Nahyan family).
Qatar was asked to join the UAE in 1971, but refused. Who can blame them with all that natural gas either? I was told I'd cry if I saw how the workers really live there. It is something you might not be prepared for when/if you see it. That's why I went out of my way to treat them with courtesy and respect that they otherwise would not receive. So many things I can say really. There are positives, but of course, there are also negatives.
Qatar officials have apologised after a broadcast journalist's live TV report was interrupted amid threats to break his camera.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
RE: RE: RE: RE: Qatar knew full well what the expectations
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
Someone who lives in a country that's not his/her own for an indefinite period of time, often without becoming a citizen there. Lots of people are digital nomads and/or academics who do that. I made friends with a poster on BBI who's also an expat (no names).
Qatar officials have apologised after a broadcast journalist's live TV report was interrupted amid threats to break his camera.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
TV reporter accosted by Qatar officials during live interview amid threats to break camera just days before World Cup - ( New Window )
With banning beer sales in the stands but wish they had done it earlier. I have been to several games with drunken Brits and it is absolutely unlike anything i have ever seen in other sports— unruly loud and at times violent. I understand that German and French fans can be as bad. Without some loud mouthed drunks this will be a better experience for other fans. Again no excuse for waiting though and all these restrictions are exactly what FIFA deserves for the corrupt process that was followed.
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
I know. This usage of the term "woke" is about the dumbest phenomena around right now.
With banning beer sales in the stands but wish they had done it earlier. I have been to several games with drunken Brits and it is absolutely unlike anything i have ever seen in other sports— unruly loud and at times violent. I understand that German and French fans can be as bad. Without some loud mouthed drunks this will be a better experience for other fans. Again no excuse for waiting though and all these restrictions are exactly what FIFA deserves for the corrupt process that was followed.
+1 Precisely. Well said sir. A British lady friend of mine was saying something along those lines in a WhatsApp Group I'm in today.
It was widely reported before the World Cup that media would only be allowed to film in authorized zones.
Arab Gulf countries are ill equipped logistically to deal with this. He had his permit and they receive an apology later. I saw a tweet in Arabic that when translated indicated that a designated official from the Qatari media office should have accompanied them, but didn't. The while thing was ridiculous. Free pub for your country, or neutral pub, and they managed to turn it into something negative. Just REALLY dumb stuff that could have been avoided. Guy who speaks broken English too dealing with the media over something totally innocent.
Did foreign reporters have free reign to film anywhere they wanted to ? I thought the whole concept of having a world class sporting event in Qatar was a terrible idea, but a reporter getting detained for being somewhere he wasn't supposed to seems like a red herring.
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
This has been a cluster and all these FIFA guys took the bribes and Qatar is basically got them over a barrel.
Changing the beers sales 2 days before and basically killing your biggest sponsor.
No reason it should be in Qatar.
RE: RE: RE: RE: A soccer game is played in less than
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
It won't. It's the biggest sporting spectacle in the world and only grows more massive every 4 years. Fifa is basically printing money. Global soccer is the biggest sport in the world with enormous untapped profit potential. And one day, when the US is a true threat to win the WC, maybe 20 or 40 years from now, it will rival the NFL in this country.
We can't even consistently make the cup. Last time we lost to Trinadad and fucking Tabago which eliminated us from even competing. I'm not even certain this team can make it out of group like we did in 2014 when things were looking up for US Soccer.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: A soccer game is played in less than
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: A soccer game is played in less than
Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
+1 - So sorry you went through that Jeffrey.
Hooliganism is disgusting and SEVERE judicial penalties and fines against those caught participating should be enforced to deter their deleterious behavior. It seems some fans on this thread ar either unaware or choosing to ignore how difficult these people are to handle. The banning of alcohol at games is good.
As far as FIFA is concerned, they are the ones who are to be blamed for all this. Slave labor issues and total lack of media savvy aside, Qatar is a safe place to visit and take in games at state-of-the-art stadiums, but they are logistically incapable of handling the massive amounts of people (and be extension media) who attend the World Cup. I saw a video of a guy from Spain who planned in walking to Qatar from Madrid back in January! No joke! Click HERE to see the short video.
Their unsophisticated---or dare I say common sense-less approach to media relations is another huge issue. Paranoia is ingrained in them, and they've already gotten embarrassed because of it. t could have been so much nicer since the weather there now is beautiful. They've hosted tournaments before (The Arab Cup last year around this time when I was in the UAE) successfully, but this is an ENIRELY different kettle of fish. What do yo expect when you put these two together (FIFA and the host nation)? Anywho, it is what it is. Go team USA! The first game will be starting in a few minutes between the hosts and Ecuador (see link below to the Opening Ceremony).
Nice counter they had before that penalty. Ecuador is outclassing Qatar. They really don't belong in this tourney, but it is what it is. My dad (my former coach) was like, "Qatar will show what they can or can't do early on." So far, they can't do much, lol.
Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
Slave labor isn’t something you just brush aside because they are nice to westerners.
Of course it's wrong. I was talking about safety. Separate things. In GCC countries you have no worries about being assaulted and if you lose your wallet or your phone in public you're almost guaranteed to get them back. I've worked and lived in the GCC a long time so don't lecture me about what I've seen. Of course it's despicable. You can't exactly go disputing it when you're there, otherwise you're deported. I don't appreciate the assertion you think I'm ok with it either.
It’s not about the policy, it’s about how they handled it. The Lucy with the football move is what the problem is. I don’t care about the other part of the discussion. It’s complete BS what they did. Believe it or not, some people wouldn’t have gone if they knew this would be applied. And their travel plans all together were definitely in the thousands of dollars, not hundreds. Not too mention sitting in a metal tube with hundreds of people for upwards of 24 hours l, just to get there, depending where you came from. That’s the point of the fan anger. Not that they can’t sit through a game without booze.
It’s not about the policy, it’s about how they handled it. The Lucy with the football move is what the problem is. I don’t care about the other part of the discussion. It’s complete BS what they did. Believe it or not, some people wouldn’t have gone if they knew this would be applied. And their travel plans all together were definitely in the thousands of dollars, not hundreds. Not too mention sitting in a metal tube with hundreds of people for upwards of 24 hours l, just to get there, depending where you came from. That’s the point of the fan anger. Not that they can’t sit through a game without booze.
This is true.
RE: RE: RE: Why don’t you guys start a slave labor thread
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
RE: RE: RE: RE: Ecuador was convincing in their win.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Ecuador was convincing in their win.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Ecuador was convincing in their win.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
Still cool. Gotta support our guys. I REALLY want our guys to beat England to shut up my friends from there who will invariably be chirping. We have players and can win. Check out the article below.
I like to have a couple of beers while attending a game. But the availability of beer would never impact my decision to buy a ticket to a sporting event.
Also generic soccer is boring comments....you guys are nailing it.
Let them drink Bud Zero.
ap news - ( New Window )
This is correct. It also is the direct opposite of what FIFA imposed on Brazil in the last World Cup.
Clear that FIFA has no control over the situation. I'll watch the games but there's a cloud over this whole thing on many different levels.
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Make fifa in breach of contract with budwiser
This is correct. It also is the direct opposite of what FIFA imposed on Brazil in the last World Cup.
Clear that FIFA has no control over the situation. I'll watch the games but there's a cloud over this whole thing on many different levels.
Yeh this sucks. I usually get so hyped for WC but as someone that’s seen the suffering first hand in the UAE….fuck that place. Having a hard time enjoying a mindless sporting event when literally thousands of slaves died making it happen.
Kinda different situation dude. England has a billion pubs you can go get blotto at. Qatar has very select places you can drink (and they are either gonna get overwhelmed or they’ll be for guests only)
They are losing millions and will end up suing the WC for the lost revenue.
It's another of 100 reasons they should not have chosen Qatar to host
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
Highly recommend it btw.
Between that and Ted Lasso I'm warming up to it.
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
Qatar screwed them big time, waiting 2 days before it started to pull this.
No one is not showing up but with the media issues, and now no beer, FIFA is worried about what is next.
But if you sleep with dogs, you get fleas.
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About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Nobody defined the players by the corruption.
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
Quote:
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
My comment was tongue in cheek. But I did always find that episode hilarious since there is a bit of truth to sporting events not being as fun sober (depending on sport) for fans who tend to link the two together.
Trust me, I know the Super Bowl would be no less exciting. I usually drink during games, but XLII I stayed dead sober because I wanted to remember the whole thing. XLVI I allowed myself to drink since we had just won XLII and I wanted to relax for that game since I wasn't worried about missing something I hadn't seen in 17 years, it had only been 4.
I was obliterated for the entire 2012 run and 2011 regular season. Hell, for the Patriots regular season game I had a bad case of bronchitis that I couldn't shake and I still went to my usual watering hole and drank my face off and smoked ha ha. Ended up spending 5 days at my then gf's apartment so she could nurse me back to health. And luckily she was an actual nurse at Fairfax Hospital!!!
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
Not if the Beer Baron has anything to say about it!
Quote:
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
I’m a pretty big soccer fan. Will be watching less and I’m certainly not alone.
This is the least hyped WC by a mile in my lifetime.
They are losing millions and will end up suing the WC for the lost revenue.
It's another of 100 reasons they should not have chosen Qatar to host
lol
I may have a claim to be the drunkest fan to witness a home team playoff victory in Metlife Stadium. Top decile at least.
I may watch less than I did in other WC's because I have a kid and work and other engagements. But i absolutely cannot wait for this match on Monday, clearning my schedule for it.
Highly recommend it btw.
Between that and Ted Lasso I'm warming up to it.
He is going to the world cup and the status of alcohol isn't a concern to him for what it's worth. How often do us americans get to go?
I hope the tournament is awesome in terms of games, but its good in the long run if there are logistical issues that prevent them from ever hosting a World Cup somewhere like a Qatar again.
Maybe that won't happen regardless, idk.
Quote:
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
Baaaaahahahaha....you soccer weirdos cling to predictions like this as if they are life rafts on the Titanic.
Quote:
But watched "Welcome to Wrexham" on Hulu and really enjoyed it and gave us a real perspective on what all these teams mean to their fans.
Highly recommend it btw.
Between that and Ted Lasso I'm warming up to it.
I've been meaning to check that out. I saw 2 interviews with them , but no clips from the show. Is it more documentary or comedy or a combo?
I’m warming to it due to more exposure. Those two shows and my daughter playing helps. I played football in high school and always saw soccer players as pansies. I watched professional matches live in Europe and the shit they do is impressive
Quote:
But watched "Welcome to Wrexham" on Hulu and really enjoyed it and gave us a real perspective on what all these teams mean to their fans.
Highly recommend it btw.
Between that and Ted Lasso I'm warming up to it.
I've been meaning to check that out. I saw 2 interviews with them , but no clips from the show. Is it more documentary or comedy or a combo?
It's a documentary but very funny and very engaging. It shows the town, the background of the players and of course the two stars are funny. Watch the first episode you'll be hooked.
Quote:
In comment 15911804 bradshaw44 said:
Quote:
When Homer stops drinking and attends a baseball game…
Soccer may be about to lose a lot of fans.
No actual soccer fans are going to stop watching because there won't be beer. You might have a very tiny minority of people who won't turn it on out of principle (due to Qatar's social beliefs) but Soccer as a whole isn't losing fans. This event is too important to too many people. Its like saying people will stop watching football if the SuperBowl went dry - it would be a big news story but fans won't be lost.
I’m a pretty big soccer fan. Will be watching less and I’m certainly not alone.
This is the least hyped WC by a mile in my lifetime.
FYI - There wont be any boiling sun now. The weather in the Gulf is superb at this time of year.
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They set up for fans. Pay thousands of dollars to stay in a shipping box in the middle of a field with no amenities in the boiling sun (once again in a metal hotel room).
FYI - There wont be any boiling sun now. The weather in the Gulf is superb at this time of year.
Yep, on Tuesday is was a low of 68 and high of 90 where my brother is.
My daughter is on the U8 premier team and i'm so impressed with how much more access she has to better coaching and playing almost year round, than I did in the 90's. I really do think there's going to be a huge bump in interest over the next 10-20 years, its virtually inevitable with the strides made in the Youth leagues.
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They set up for fans. Pay thousands of dollars to stay in a shipping box in the middle of a field with no amenities in the boiling sun (once again in a metal hotel room).
FYI - There wont be any boiling sun now. The weather in the Gulf is superb at this time of year.
That’s funny, because we were told that they’d be scorching out there. It seems that there has been a lot of misinformation put out there.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
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It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
I expect increased rioting as an outlet as thousands of sober people realize how boring soccer is.
I may watch less than I did in other WC's because I have a kid and work and other engagements. But i absolutely cannot wait for this match on Monday, clearning my schedule for it.
No slavery and abuse of human rights makes me upset.
Now if I were actually going…yeh that would piss me off. But you gotta be kinda an idiot to not understand what you are getting fyourself into in that part of the world.
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It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
Woke is not a set of beliefs, it is the attempt to impose those beliefs on others and demand the firing or public silencing of anyone who espouses different beliefs. At least that is what reasonable and intelligent people who oppose the extremes of woke believe.
Of course, you can always find ignorant posts online and use them as straw men
Interestingly from an historical perspective, "woke" is much like the "great awakening" among puritans in the 18th century--both in its good and bad aspects.
For example, in the 18th century when Puritans experienced the "great awakening," they did not
None of these terms help move any discussion forward.
Back to the beer!
What do you drink when it's 110 degrees outside?
None of these terms help move any discussion forward.
Back to the beer!
What do you drink when it's 110 degrees outside?
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About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Yeh sure, but it takes the fun out of life when you are watching a friggin game that 1000s died for and untold misery. It would be one thing if something was being done, but the UAE and Qatar attract some of the worst people in the world…. so nothing will be.
In a few places in Quran, it seems like alcohol is being warned against but not absolutely forbidden. However, in one place it is compared to sacrificing to other gods and is described as a product of Satan. Moreover, in the hadith of al-Bukhari, it is clearly forbidden. The hadith are sayings that can be traced directly to the Prophet and have a great deal of authority.
Often, alcohol is treated in Islamic countries the way pot was treated in California: it was illegal but everyone looked the other way if you were discreet and non-public in your usage. However, anyone doing business with a country where their product is technically illegal or haram should be aware that they have a high level of risk and incorporate that risk into their bid for the contract.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
None of these terms help move any discussion forward.
Back to the beer!
What do you drink when it's 110 degrees outside?
Woke is a term that was invented and first employed by the "woke" themselves, starting about ten years ago. It is not a term invented by others or its opponents.
However, since it's fairly pretentious to describe yourself as (woke) as if everyone else is asleep, it attracted ridicule and is now probably used more by opponents than proponents.
But up until maybe three or four years ago, the term "woke" was used by the woke to describe themselves and many strong progressives still use it in defiance of conservative mockery.
My daughter is on the U8 premier team and i'm so impressed with how much more access she has to better coaching and playing almost year round, than I did in the 90's. I really do think there's going to be a huge bump in interest over the next 10-20 years, its virtually inevitable with the strides made in the Youth leagues.
Maybe soccer won't pass football in the country overall but in some cities I think it will. In places like NY and San Francisco soccer also attracts a lot of non-sports fans.
World Cup is also just a huge global event. You don't really have to follow soccer to get into World Cup.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
They were probably hoping beer sales would be permitted under a license. But the social pressure in the country has likely become too great.
If you think about it, it is really incredible elitism to prohibit something for ordinary people but then allow wealthy outsiders to enter the country and do as they please in complete disregard of the laws and practices.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
Sure, but conversely, FIFA knew full well what Qatar's attitude towards alcohol sales is, and, apparently, didn't include beer sales in the stadiums as part of the contract. The scorpion may be guilty for stinging the frog, but the frog was foolish for letting him onto its back. Or what memelord posted above.
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would be regarding alcohol sales. This last minute ban is nothing but a slap in the face to FIFA and it's business partners.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
They were probably hoping beer sales would be permitted under a license. But the social pressure in the country has likely become too great.
If you think about it, it is really incredible elitism to prohibit something for ordinary people but then allow wealthy outsiders to enter the country and do as they please in complete disregard of the laws and practices.
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
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In comment 15911997 AnnapolisMike said:
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would be regarding alcohol sales. This last minute ban is nothing but a slap in the face to FIFA and it's business partners.
Don't bid when you know what the expectations are in advance. I am assuming expectations of beers sales was laid out in the bid paperwork.
They were probably hoping beer sales would be permitted under a license. But the social pressure in the country has likely become too great.
If you think about it, it is really incredible elitism to prohibit something for ordinary people but then allow wealthy outsiders to enter the country and do as they please in complete disregard of the laws and practices.
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What were you there for and for how long?
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In comment 15911794 Dave in PA said:
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About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Yeh sure, but it takes the fun out of life when you are watching a friggin game that 1000s died for and untold misery. It would be one thing if something was being done, but the UAE and Qatar attract some of the worst people in the world…. so nothing will be.
Fair enough. I respect this viewpoint although it’s the same premise as using iPhones, wearing Nikes, etc.
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In comment 15911803 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15911794 Dave in PA said:
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About this blood money slave labor exhibition. Soccer CAN be cool, but not like this.
It’s fine to hate FIFA and all that went into the bidding process. But it isn’t an exhibition and is pretty much the most notable sporting event on earth outside of the Olympics. The players work incredibly hard to make it to this stage and should be supported, and not defined by the corruption they had nothing to do with.
Yeh sure, but it takes the fun out of life when you are watching a friggin game that 1000s died for and untold misery. It would be one thing if something was being done, but the UAE and Qatar attract some of the worst people in the world…. so nothing will be.
Fair enough. I respect this viewpoint although it’s the same premise as using iPhones, wearing Nikes, etc.
Not even close to the same. I don’t think you are familiar with what goes on in the Middle East vs Southeast Asia.
Soccer fans are die hard fans. Soccer is a religion. Fans of Brazil will not stop being passionate about the team because they can't drink alcohol in the stadium.
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Will stay fans if they have to watch the game sober?
Soccer fans are die hard fans. Soccer is a religion. Fans of Brazil will not stop being passionate about the team because they can't drink alcohol in the stadium.
+1
2011-2013.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
In a few places in Quran, it seems like alcohol is being warned against but not absolutely forbidden. However, in one place it is compared to sacrificing to other gods and is described as a product of Satan. Moreover, in the hadith of al-Bukhari, it is clearly forbidden. The hadith are sayings that can be traced directly to the Prophet and have a great deal of authority.
Often, alcohol is treated in Islamic countries the way pot was treated in California: it was illegal but everyone looked the other way if you were discreet and non-public in your usage. However, anyone doing business with a country where their product is technically illegal or haram should be aware that they have a high level of risk and incorporate that risk into their bid for the contract.
There are four schools of jurisprudential thought in Islam, not 3 (Hanafi, Maliki, Hanbali, and Shafi'i). The Quran was revealed over a 23 year span. Alcohol was not banned at first. Muslims were told not to pray in a state of drunkenness. As time passed though, it was forbidden completely (4:42) (2:219).
As far as alcohol in the Gulf is concerned, all I can tell you is that it is all over the place. Plenty of people drink--even locals and Muslims. I don't even want to begin to tell you what I saw there over the span of almost a decade. All I can say is that EVERYONE drinks there, lol. The countries of the Gulf are all about saving face. If you you go to Non-Gulf countries it's more out there. People get drunk as can be when you go camping, in hotels, restaurants, golf clubs, regular clubs, bars, at home, or at parties. It's just regulated and under control. It's readily available. It's hard drugs where the line is absolutely drawn.
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With the navy? Correct me if I'm wrong. Which year was this?
2011-2013.
I'm on sabbatical now and am with family in gold ole' Nuevoa Jork and am an academic by trade. I've been in the UAE--specifically Abu Dhabi--from 2014 until 2022. A lot has changed since your time there, and two months is not long enough to make an informed judgment of the place. Lots of expats love it there and make it there home because of how safe it is and th weather during this time of year. Not saying those human rights concerns aren't there. They most certainly are, but you are privileged there as a westerner and are given lots of leeway to do things.
There are plenty of nationalities there and it's a smorgasbord. Over time you find a group of like-minded people and become friendly with each other. The biggest problem is the place's transient nature. Lots of other ex-pats never really make the adjustment. You are right about one thing: people are there for the money from everywhere. Lots of laws are being passed and changed now, specifically in the emirate of Dubai. Each emirate has it's own specific character, but Abu Dhabi is the one calling the shots (the Al Nahyan family).
Qatar was asked to join the UAE in 1971, but refused. Who can blame them with all that natural gas either? I was told I'd cry if I saw how the workers really live there. It is something you might not be prepared for when/if you see it. That's why I went out of my way to treat them with courtesy and respect that they otherwise would not receive. So many things I can say really. There are positives, but of course, there are also negatives.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
TV reporter accosted by Qatar officials during live interview amid threats to break camera just days before World Cup - ( New Window )
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
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In comment 15912031 Vanzetti said:
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
Someone who lives in a country that's not his/her own for an indefinite period of time, often without becoming a citizen there. Lots of people are digital nomads and/or academics who do that. I made friends with a poster on BBI who's also an expat (no names).
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Qatar officials have apologised after a broadcast journalist's live TV report was interrupted amid threats to break his camera.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
TV reporter accosted by Qatar officials during live interview amid threats to break camera just days before World Cup - ( New Window )
That's fucking hilarious
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It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
I know. This usage of the term "woke" is about the dumbest phenomena around right now.
+1 Precisely. Well said sir. A British lady friend of mine was saying something along those lines in a WhatsApp Group I'm in today.
Arab Gulf countries are ill equipped logistically to deal with this. He had his permit and they receive an apology later. I saw a tweet in Arabic that when translated indicated that a designated official from the Qatari media office should have accompanied them, but didn't. The while thing was ridiculous. Free pub for your country, or neutral pub, and they managed to turn it into something negative. Just REALLY dumb stuff that could have been avoided. Guy who speaks broken English too dealing with the media over something totally innocent.
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
(As I type from a bar on my 3rd Double IPA.)
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Changing the beers sales 2 days before and basically killing your biggest sponsor.
No reason it should be in Qatar.
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In comment 15912200 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
Total corruption
Ny times - ( New Window )
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In comment 15912987 bradshaw44 said:
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In comment 15912200 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
It's been a good thing in the sense that it shined a light on how terrible the Qatar regime is.
I'll still be watching though. Go USA!
We can't even consistently make the cup. Last time we lost to Trinadad and fucking Tabago which eliminated us from even competing. I'm not even certain this team can make it out of group like we did in 2014 when things were looking up for US Soccer.
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In comment 15912999 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15912987 bradshaw44 said:
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In comment 15912200 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
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Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
+1 - So sorry you went through that Jeffrey.
Hooliganism is disgusting and SEVERE judicial penalties and fines against those caught participating should be enforced to deter their deleterious behavior. It seems some fans on this thread ar either unaware or choosing to ignore how difficult these people are to handle. The banning of alcohol at games is good.
As far as FIFA is concerned, they are the ones who are to be blamed for all this. Slave labor issues and total lack of media savvy aside, Qatar is a safe place to visit and take in games at state-of-the-art stadiums, but they are logistically incapable of handling the massive amounts of people (and be extension media) who attend the World Cup. I saw a video of a guy from Spain who planned in walking to Qatar from Madrid back in January! No joke! Click HERE to see the short video.
Their unsophisticated---or dare I say common sense-less approach to media relations is another huge issue. Paranoia is ingrained in them, and they've already gotten embarrassed because of it. t could have been so much nicer since the weather there now is beautiful. They've hosted tournaments before (The Arab Cup last year around this time when I was in the UAE) successfully, but this is an ENIRELY different kettle of fish. What do yo expect when you put these two together (FIFA and the host nation)? Anywho, it is what it is. Go team USA! The first game will be starting in a few minutes between the hosts and Ecuador (see link below to the Opening Ceremony).
FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony - Fox Sports link - ( New Window )
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
I couldn't see the offsides there.
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0-0 now
I couldn't see the offsides there.
Me neither man. Home cooking? lol
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
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In comment 15913467 RicFlair said:
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
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In comment 15913480 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913467 RicFlair said:
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
Slave labor isn’t something you just brush aside because they are nice to westerners.
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In comment 15913509 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913480 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913467 RicFlair said:
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
Slave labor isn’t something you just brush aside because they are nice to westerners.
Of course it's wrong. I was talking about safety. Separate things. In GCC countries you have no worries about being assaulted and if you lose your wallet or your phone in public you're almost guaranteed to get them back. I've worked and lived in the GCC a long time so don't lecture me about what I've seen. Of course it's despicable. You can't exactly go disputing it when you're there, otherwise you're deported. I don't appreciate the assertion you think I'm ok with it either.
Ended on my part. RicFlair had me triggered. Apologies.
Nice goal by Valencia!
This is a thread about Qatar as the host country. Valid convo.
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and hash it out there?
This is a thread about Qatar as the host country. Valid convo.
Cool, it seems very productive.
This is true.
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In comment 15913528 UConn4523 said:
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and hash it out there?
This is a thread about Qatar as the host country. Valid convo.
Cool, it seems very productive.
I wouldn’t talk about it in a game thread.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
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In comment 15913714 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
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In comment 15913777 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913714 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
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In comment 15913837 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913777 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913714 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
Still cool. Gotta support our guys. I REALLY want our guys to beat England to shut up my friends from there who will invariably be chirping. We have players and can win. Check out the article below.
Why the US men’s World Cup soccer team is actually good for once - by Kirsten Fleming - nypost.com | November 18, 2022 - ( New Window )