Daniel Hough

In every crisis there lies an opportunity. And that applies even to a crisis as large and potentially scandalous as that revealed by the so-called Panama Papers.

This year’s annual congress, currently taking place in Zurich, looks like being altogether different.

FIFA appears to have cleared Russia and Qatar of any wrongdoing in their successful bids to host the 2018 and 2022 world cups. Its report recognises that mistakes were made but downplays the level of improper behaviour. A rotten apple was recognised here and there, sure, but nothing more. That was to be the official narrative. It was supposed to mark the end of allegations of wrongdoing and improper conduct by football’s governing body.

November 9 should be the day when Germans have one big party. It’s a day that should be akin to the July 4 in the USA or July 14 in France. A day when Germans look back and remember something positive, something constructive about which they can be justifiably proud.

In every crisis there lies an opportunity. And that applies even to a crisis as large and potentially scandalous as that revealed by the so-called Panama Papers.

This year’s annual congress, currently taking place in Zurich, looks like being altogether different.

FIFA appears to have cleared Russia and Qatar of any wrongdoing in their successful bids to host the 2018 and 2022 world cups. Its report recognises that mistakes were made but downplays the level of improper behaviour. A rotten apple was recognised here and there, sure, but nothing more. That was to be the official narrative. It was supposed to mark the end of allegations of wrongdoing and improper conduct by football’s governing body.

November 9 should be the day when Germans have one big party. It’s a day that should be akin to the July 4 in the USA or July 14 in France. A day when Germans look back and remember something positive, something constructive about which they can be justifiably proud.