It was reported that ASEAN, which comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia, is going big in World Cup. Since all of these countries did not manage to qualify on the pitch, they're going through back-doors.
ASEAN is going to bid for FIFA World Cup 2030 !!!
Wow... When I first heard about this news, I am very excited. But, after calming down and figured it out, I doubt ASEAN could succeed in bidding the world's most popular event because of the following reasons. Second surprise came, when Malaysia was said to lead the pack for the bidding. Malaysia, the unlikely team which became the winner of ASEAN cup recently, may found ourselves "syok sendiri".
Common Sense
- Our level is nowhere near the World Cup level. Although we still have plenty of time before 2030, ASEAN needs much efforts to up the level, at least on par with South Korea.
- To select a team who represents all the hosting countries, it would be very difficult. By then, the supposedly ASEAN team will became "rojak" team. Sure, there will be heated arguments on which players shortlisted and how many players from each countries.
- Each countries have their own identity and culture, which needs to be show casts to the world given the world wide coverage. Would Malaysia want to lose our color?
Economic Sense
- From the countries involved, who will be the chosen host? And, where will be the grand final? Because, that important locations would determine the profitability of the multi-billions event.
- Since ASEAN do not have a common currency regime, some countries may lose out to another due to different currency exchange rates.
- How much costs would each members shared?
Finance Malaysia suggests that Malaysia could bid for the World Cup by teaming up with Singapore. Two is better than the whole ASEAN. Of course, if can, we can host the entire event ourselves.
Related posts:
