Barney Ronay reviews World Cup highlights and controversies in video

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 11:59 AM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Barney Ronay reviews World Cup highlights and controversies in video

Summary

Barney Ronay presents a review of the World Cup, noting both its inspiring moments and controversies. He recounts his experiences traveling across the U.S., highlighting the passion of international football despite FIFA’s criticisms. Ronay points to both the joys of American hospitality and the challenges posed by mid-game advertising breaks. The review emphasizes the multicultural aspects of the tournament and its ability to bring joy to spectators.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•Ronay describes the World Cup as 'sparky and perky'.
•He critiques FIFA's reliance on private jets and advertising.
•American hospitality and multicultural teams uplift the tournament.
•The review includes highlights and lowlights from his travels.

Latest Updates

11:59 AMThe Guardian Sport — Hot or not: Barney Ronay's World Cup review so far – video

What they're saying

"
“It’s been really sparky and perky and a reminder that international football is something people actually do for passion,” says our chief sports writer Barney Ronay. From Gianni Infantino’s heavy reliance on a private jet to attend multiple World Cup matches daily, to ‘the wretched and mendacious’ mid-half advert breaks – as well as the entertaining managers and lessons in history: Barney reveals his best and worst bits from travelling around the US. Despite Fifa’s ‘horribly compromised’ World Cup, Barney looks at how the contest still has a way of inspiring joy and unity, whether that’s through American hospitality, multicultural teams, or simply just entertaining football. ⚽ Latest news from day 15 | Knockout permutations ⚽ Player guide | Bracketology Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Barney Ronay, Elena Cresci, Nikhita Chulani and Xaymaca Awoyungbo

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