China Desperately Pursues World Cup Glory... Without a Soccer Team

In an unusual display of national pride, Chinese fans, supported by state-run media, are rallying behind their country's referees and soccer merchandise factories during the FIFA World Cup despite the absence of a competitive national team. This phenomenon highlights the lengths to which the Chinese government goes to promote soccer, reflecting broader ambitions in global sports and economic influence. The focus on referees and merchandise underscores a strategic pivot in China's sports policy, aiming to build a robust infrastructure rather than immediately competing at the highest levels.