Of course, sport is sport and politics is politics, so one shouldn’t read too much into it. Yet the FIFA 2026 World Cup win undoubtedly delivers a nice political irony: right under the eyes of US President D. Trump, the team that triumphed in New Jersey was—of all nations—the one whose government is distinguished by its steadfast refusal to treat Donald Trump with eager subservience.
When I heard about Elvis Presley’s death, I stood at the steps of a hotel in Milano Marittima, Italy. I had just stepped out on my way to pick up the Bildzeitung* -the worst of all German newspapers- but also the only newspaper Germans were able to get with a three-day delay, when they enjoyed their summer vacation in Italy.
The whole city seems to be on its feet; they are celebrating their victory. People are dancing in the street, I can hear music and laughter. The party will continue until early in the morning. I know, I have witnessed it before.
