Racism at the World Cup...

I don't normally post articles like this but I'm interested to see what the general consensus is surrounding sensitive issues like racism and homophobia in Russia, and conversely their awarding of the Winter Olympics in 2014 and the upcoming World Cup. Even throwing aside the state-sponsored doping allegations for which they're no doubt culpable, you have to question why countries like this are being rewarded for disgraceful behaviour. Racism and homophobia are widespread in Russia. It's a nationwide problem they don't even recognise exists.

Sepp Blatter, and his army of greedy yes-men, will argue that it is the responsibility of sport to be the pioneers, the leaders of change or the torch-bearers of acceptance but we all know now that this was merely a veil to thinly disguise corruption. Despite the corruption though, I can see the benefits of showcasing acceptance to slowly change the opinions of those further back on the social scale. There are political benefits but is it really the responsibility of sport to change the world. It can, but it shouldn't be the lone voice. If the powers at the very top are racist, homophobic and generally anti-minority, and we all know Putin's ideologies, then what chance is there for real change. Sport will never beat politics or religion (Qatar) in fighting this problem so you have to ask whether rewarding countries for such bigoted attitudes is the right way to go. Do you reward the child for misbehaving or punish them?

The main problem I have with it is that there appears to be no consideration to the players or the fans attending.

Take a look at this article...
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43568047

Why should Pogba, Dembele and the many other minorities competing or watching at the tournament have to put up with abuse like this just to prop up some political agenda? Minorities players hitting their prime now will have to face the issues, not only in Russia, but in Qatar in four years (although that's likely to be more of a homophobia problem than racist).

I find it staggering that sport has to do this where governments won't bother. Russia and Qatar are both rich. They have the capabilities to disperse wealth better, educate well and become more accepting. They choose not to. For that reason I'm angry that we have to watch a World Cup in a place like that. They'll be children watching all over the world listening to monkey chants every time a black player gets the ball (particularly the hosts games). Is that a good example? If it's about teaching the world, it could end up having a counter-productive effect.

Anyway, I'll stop gabbling on. Would be good to hear your thoughts on this!