'Can we continue to entrust global sport to organizations more concerned with their financial interests than with the public good?'

Researchers Frédérique Reynertz and Pim Verschuuren argue that the 2026 World Cup's excessive commercialization and conflicts of interest demonstrate the need for governments, athletes, and sports stakeholders to reclaim control over global sports governance. They question whether organizations prioritizing financial interests over public good can continue to lead international sports.