“Are you watching any of the world cup?” I asked Camp after we settled into our sunny corner at Gramma’s Pub. 

“My brain and intellect tell me to boycott the whole circus because you know that Trump will politicise the games which became evident when Infantino presented him with the FIFA peace trophy at the Kennedy Center.”

 “Yes, that was such an awful cringe moment. Just as bad as accepting an Order of Friendship award from Vladimir Putin. Infantino, who has an ego to match that of his Orange Idol, will be seen as one of the beautiful game’s greatest cowards or as a Guardian article said:  A petty man who lost control of his own tournament.”

“I guess you’re also talking about the US denying entry to the Somali referee, Omar Abdulkadir Artan, because Trump regards Somalis as garbage and crooks. So much for the all-inclusive tournament. Even Russia allowed visa-free travel for its 2018 World Cup.”

“How much money is at stake,” Camp asked rhetorically and answered his own question. “Fifa is projecting revenues of over US$ 10 billion, double of what the 2024 Olympics in Paris made.”

“I guess it’s all about the money Camp.”

“How much of it trickles down to local programs in host cities?”

“Very little to nothing. Fifa keeps all the revenue streams like broadcast, sponsorships and ticket sales. On the other side of the equation the host cities and taxpayers are on the hook to absorb the operating costs.”

“How much will it cost Vancouver and BC to host 7 games?” Camp wanted to know.

“About 100 million dollars. That’s net, counting projected revenues and federal contributions.”

“I don’t even want to think how many long-term beds we could build for that. I guess it’s all circuses for the masses,” Camp said, shaking his head. “And who is paying for the turf upgrade at BC Place?” 

“Because BC Place is owned by the B.C. government through a Crown corporation, the multimillion-dollar installation of the temporary natural grass surface grown in the Fraser Valley, is ultimately covered by public funds.”

“Are you going to any of the Vancouver Games?”

“I’m not going to spend hundreds of dollars to go to a 90 minute game. I don’t like the insane ticket prices which pushes ordinary working people right out of the market nor do I like the politicisation of the game but I’ll probably watch some matches. Maybe right here at the pub or at home. I watched the Swiss and Canada games yesterday. Both of them emphatically trounced their opponents with plenty of pretty moves and goals.” 

Vicky came around with our refills and I asked her if they will show some of the world cup games. 

“Since there is no more hockey or basketball, we’ll show some games and offer drink and food specials.” 

“What’s the beer special?”

“Michelob Ultra for $ 6, brewed in London, Ontario by Labatt. That makes it a Canadian beer.”

“We’ll try one each.”