Social media is ablaze with accusations of blatant bias from FIFA and Fox One, favoring Lionel Messi while criticizing Cristiano Ronaldo. Observers note that expert panels are cherry-picked to include individuals known for anti-Ronaldo views. Many argue that FIFA's sponsorship by a major sports brand, which also employs Messi for promotion, creates a conflict of interest that tilts coverage in Messi's favor. While the connection may be debated, the pattern of excusing Messi's red-card-worthy fouls and commentators' one-sided praise is undeniable.
Cherry-Picked Experts and Ignored Fouls
Commentators have been accused of ignoring Messi's fouls while amplifying Ronaldo's shortcomings. For instance, when Ronaldo failed to score in Portugal's first World Cup match, pundits immediately called for his retirement, labeling him a hindrance. Age became a liability, according to Fox commentators. Conversely, Messi's similar struggles are overlooked or excused.
Political and Corporate Undercurrents
Three factors fuel suspicions of orchestrated bias. First, Messi's Argentine nationality coincides with his country's strong ties to Israel, while Ronaldo has expressed pro-Palestinian sentiments and provided material support. Second, Ronaldo's removal of Coca-Cola bottles during a press conference, advocating water instead, caused a $4 billion drop in the company's market value. Third, powerful corporate and foreign lobbies in the U.S. often influence media narratives to serve their interests.
Conspiracy or Reality?
The author notes that in American stores, only Messi T-shirts are prominently displayed, while Ronaldo merchandise is absent. This suggests a deliberate sidelining of Ronaldo. The open bias, the author argues, is designed to discourage maverick behavior like Ronaldo's. What once seemed like conspiracy theories—such as corporate manipulation—have often proven true. As the author states, "Truth is under no obligation to make sense to us."
