The Real Winner of the 2022 World Cup Decision - Makes Me Wonder if FIFA Was Also Paid Off!

December 3, 2010

Though it defied logic, reason, and even FIFA's own technical evaluation, Qatar's bid for the 2022 World Cup was a success. And while this is certainly a victory for Qatar and the Middle East, the man smiling widest has to be Zidane.

Like many other famous names, Zidane was paid exorbitantly to support Qatar's bid. He appeared at matches and even starred in a very successful commercial for the cause.  According to The New Republic, his deal guaranteed him $3 million regardless of the bid's success and a whopping $15 million if Qatar got the event. Well, they got it, so now Zidane gets his $15 million.

For a guy whose final memory of the World Cup as a player was less than enjoyable, this has to be an extra sweet payday. Especially since the son of Algerian parents felt a bit more connected to this bid beyond just the giant sack of money. It's unclear whether all of the FIFA executive committee members who voted for Qatar can say the same thing. 

Photo: Getty Images

...

Read the rest of this article »

Comments [0]

Algeria player slaps female reporter after loss to US 1-0!

June 23, 2010

Follow Martin Rogers on Twitter at @mrogersyahoo

(Clive Mason/Getty Images)

PRETORIA, South Africa – Algeria soccer player Rafik Saifi slapped a female journalist across the face as the aftermath of the United States’ dramatic World Cup victory turned ugly at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday night.

While walking through the interview zone, Saifi spotted writer Asma Halimi, who works for Algerian newspaper Competition, and struck her with his open hand in front of dozens of witnesses. Halimi responded by striking the player in the mouth.

Saifi then threw a sports drink bottle at a wall in the interview area, as Halimi was ushered away by security staff.

Saifi came on as substitute for the last five minutes of the USA’s 1-0 victory.

“I said nothing to him and he reached over and hit me,” Halimi said to Yahoo! Sports. “So I hit him back. I said nothing to him first.”

It is understood that Saifi and Halimi had previously had a difference of opinion...

Read the rest of this article »

Tags // World Cup,

Comments [0]