The world is awaiting the biggest event of this year and that is the "Football World Cup" being played in South Africa. Yes, ofcourse it is special for many reasons because it is for the first time played in an African nation with an overwhelming jubiliance and fanfare. Around 25 top playing nations will qualify for this years trophy. But there was one thing which amazed , surprised me the most that is there are only two countries from Asian continent playing this world cup that is Japan and North Korea. The continent which has Maximum population, maximum land area and maximum countries are least represented. The reasons may not be apt but then how can we say that it is a "World Cup" rather it has to be termed as "Half World Cup", isnt it? If the name "World Cup" is based on viewership around the globe then the name is apt but not for any other rational reason which i could find...
The top two populous countries are not represented which almost constitutes 30% of world 's living population then is it fair enough to say that we are viewing a world cup. This reasons may look absurd but still shocking. Any game should be judged only on performance and merit and not on representation but then FIFA as world class regulatory body should promote infrastructure facilities in those countires which is lacking it. India is ranked 134th in the world not because football is unpopular or not played enough or because the denizens lack the talent but its just because of lack of infrastructural facilities and politicization of the game and ofcourse the idolization of cricket.
Qualifying rounds do provide chances and opportunities to many such countries with utmost passion but lacking facilities but of meagre help. The onus is on FIFA to see whether there is maximum representation from every corner of the world. We can only hope that this "Half World Cup " which is being played gets converted into a real "World Cup" in times to come.
Nice article and well put thoughts..But an interesting fact to notice here is that if you look at the last 10-15 yrs participation in the FIFA WC there has been a phenomenal change. I mean who would have noticed or expected countries like Cameroon and Honduras to be a part of this cup. So the scenario has been changing...And as for your comments on the need for FIFA to ensure that there is enough participation from every corner of the world.,well..here's a link that shares thoughts on similar lines about the future of Indian football.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.indianexpress.com/news/joining-the-carnival/639331/