Steve Bank,professor at UCLA School of Law,prepares for World Cup in North America. But beyond matches,he's focused on legal issues surrounding event. As a tax and soccer law expert,he's watching what tournament must overcome.
Legal scrutiny intensifies as New York and New Jersey attorneys general subpoena FIFA over ticket pricing and alleged seat location scams. Immigration enforcement at stadiums sparks fears of federal military presence in host cities,which might clash with past court rulings . Cities clash with FIFA,federal authorities over security,transport costs,amid federal subsidy delays.
Visa issues for teams,staff,fans create tension,especially with geopolitics involving countries like Iran,Venezuela. Bank says tourism revenue usually means open arms for international fans,but security risks make this tricky. He recalls 1972 Munich Olympics,highlighting need to balance security with hospitality.
Ticket prices stir debate. Many fans feel excluded,raising access concerns. Bank notes U.S. secondary sales market brings challenges not seen elsewhere. FIFA's dynamic pricing reflects sports commercialization trends. Soccer,once people's sport,now threatened by corporate power.
Bank's tax law expertise merges with soccer law interest,as sport turns into big business. He mentions David Beckham's move to Real Madrid,aided by tax incentives drawing stars to Spain. FIFA's governance allows small nations equal vote,giving African,Caribbean countries say in decisions.
In his upcoming book,“High Rates and Low Taxes: Tax Dodging in Mid-Century America,” Bank explores historical tax strategies echoing today's soccer practices . Star footballers and coaches often use tax-dodging tactics like Hollywood stars,leveraging offshore entities to cut tax bills.
For World Cup,Bank,his family got tickets for Switzerland vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina at SoFi Stadium,even with no personal ties. A chance to see World Cup firsthand. Bank also secured tickets for USA vs. Türkiye after more were released,but prices remained high.
Asked about likely winners,Bank sees France as favorite but notes European teams' past struggles in Western Hemisphere. Travel,time zones traditionally tough,but recent wins,like Germany's in Brazil 2014,may change that…
