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Rory Smith
Posts
A Soccer Field Can Be Sacred
For millions of people, it represents familiarity, comfort and belonging.
As Soccer Jerseys Become Vintage Streetwear, Big Investors Buy In
Vintage soccer jerseys have become a streetwear staple, and a target of major investors. Their real appeal lies in the memories they conjure.
Are Games Like the Euro 2024 Final the Riskiest Gig in Music?
Performing before a major match like the Euro 2024 final offers priceless visibility, and the nonzero chance that you’ll be booed.
In Germany, a Tournament Runs Smoothly, but the Trains Do Not
Sweltering train cars, frequent delays and regular cancellations: At the Euro 2024 men’s soccer tournament, Germany’s faltering rail system emerges as a tough opponent.
Want to Lose a Lot of Money, Fast? Buy a Small Soccer Team in England.
The country’s lower leagues offer a tempting entry to ownership. But the sport’s economics mean even multimillionaires can struggle to compete.
Soccer Watchalongs Like Stretford Paddock Offer a Broadcast Alternative
Soccer fans are tuning out broadcasts in favor of watchalongs: streaming parties where you hear what you want to hear and see everything except the…
Can This Man Make Soccer Smarter?
Ian Graham helped transform Liverpool from a faded giant into soccer’s most cutting-edge club. Now he wants to do the same for everyone else.
A Night at the Best Pickup Soccer Game in the World
Every week, a group of former pros gathers for what may be the best pickup soccer game in the world. The appeal is a chance…
Selling Saudi Soccer, One Like at a Time
The standard of play in the Saudi Pro League doesn’t matter when no one’s watching the games.
Spain Wins World Cup as Its Talent Trumps Its Troubles
A team that had endured all that Spain has in the past 12 months should not be able to win a World Cup. And yet…