Nov
8
Tradition For Sale
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The commercialism of the game continues consuming the bases of footballing tradition, and shows no signs of halting. Following Newcastle United approving plans to rename their stadium to “sportsdirect.com@St James’ Park“, two London-based clubs have decided to follow suit. Apparently, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have realized there is good money to be made from changing the name of grounds their fans have been going to for generations to sing and cheer their lungs out.
According to Chelsea’s new chief executive Ron Gourlay:
“Retaining the heritage of the stadium is paramount to considering such a move but we think that is achievable and on that basis we would enter into discussions over naming rights with the right partner for Chelsea.”
Or in other words: “Yes, yes, we know we have some old-timer sentimental fans, but the money is all that matters.”
It’s a move that really isn’t too surprising—there are advertisements inside and out football grounds, on football kits, shoes, etc.—some clubs have even renamed themselves to soft drinks, so why not change the stadium name? It only serves to show that nothing anymore is sacred and everything is up for sale.
The fear I share with a good number of football fans, however, is when the day will come when we will look at the sport and barely recognize the old game. Somehow, McDonalds United lining up against Wal-Mart of Liverpool F.C. at “sportsgambling.about.com@ Old Trafford” is not going to inspire quite the same atmosphere that elevated the derby to one of the most popular ones in the world.