We have previously discussed the questionable assurances of reforms from the Russian government after its government-led, systemic doping scandal. The greatest proof came this week when the Russians barred German Journalist Hajo Seppelt, the man who broke the Russian state doping story, from entry to the World Cup in Russia. If the Russians were so shocked and repentant, they should welcome Seppelt as a hero. Instead, they declared him an “undesirable person” for revealing their systemic cheating. Of course, the FIFA (which has distinguished itself as one of the most thoroughly corrupt organizations) has taken no real action.
The visa application was submitted by German public broadcaster SWR on behalf of Seppelt. FIFA validated Seppelt’s accreditation request.
It was FIFA that decided to hold the World Cup in Russia after the most extensive sports cheating program ever uncovered. It can hardly express shock that the Russians are punishing a journalist who exposed their dishonesty.
