When it is all over, half the population of the world will have followed the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil. It is a global phenomenon filled with the sound and the fury of a sport that eases the tribal fire within us all. Just look at the numbers for this year’s tournament: the amount invested, the estimated economic gains, the increased cash flow—it’s all so dizzying. It is clear that passion and glory have a high price.
We have written poems and directed films, we have raised statues of glorified emperors, and we have erected architectural jewels—all in the name of fútbol. Many intellectuals have tied the soul of a country to the magic of a ball between a star’s feet. And in the turbulent psyches of some fútbol players lies the destiny of entire nations.
Beyond the epic and sublime, fútbol is an industry rich in results and possibilities. It is a weapon loaded with the present and charged by the future. It is a sport that, due to its penetration in society at an international level, has become a valuable mechanism for soft diplomacy, cross-cultural communication, and the peaceful coexistence of peoples. In many countries, it is also a growing component of community development and education policy.
Fútbol is more than a group of human beings dressed in tight, colorful clothing trying to control a sphere. Speaking of spheres, the ball of this World Cup is more “intelligent” than normal. A new and improved ball is designed for each tournament. With today’s technology, it is possible to modify all aspects of the ball: the inner lining that contains the air, the outer carcass that lets it roll, the glossy finish, the bounce, the aerodynamics, the sound it makes when it’s kicked, and many other physical qualities that make each ball unique.
On the other hand, the first World Cup trophy was dedicated to the first president of FIFA, Jules Rimet. It was made of silver and plated in gold and lapis lazuli. The trophy represented Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. In 1970, Brazil won the trophy to keep as its own. The replacement trophy was introduced at the 1974 World Cup. Designed by Silvio Gazzaniga and manufactured by Bertoni, Milano, the trophy measures 14.5 inches tall and is made of 11 pounds of 18 karat gold (that is to say, 75% gold) with a 5 inch diameter base that is encircled by two malachite rings. The trophy weighs more than 17 pounds and represents two human figures holding up the planet. Today, the trophy no longer becomes the permanent property of the winner.
To enjoy a World Cup is to walk the fine line of reality and desire. Who will win? The president of Uruguay, José Mujica Cordano, gave me this answer: “I hope Uruguay wins, or another Latin American squad. And if that can’t happen, then Spain or Italy.” Those are roots, Mr. President.
