Greatest global sports event

[Dutch_guy]

Well nothing surprising here:

World Cup.

The only international games in which we actually stand a chance.

[Louis VI the Fat]

What is the olympics?

[Kralizec]

World cup. I enjoy both though.

[Zalmoxis]

The World Cup, it's the shiznit.

[Papewaio]

I think people will love whatever they are good at, the same applies to watching their teams play.

So anyone think that the results are 100% a product of the sportsmen on the field and not sullied by a murkey mix of pharmaceuticals and betting leagues?

[nokhor]

i wonder if you ask this same question in the middle of the olympics, whether you would get a different result here. i doubt it, but am just asking.

[AntiochusIII]

Well, they are very different, that's for sure.

For pure sport, duh. WORLD CUP! WORLD CUP! WORLD CUP! What bloody game is better than football?

However, the Olympics has its own purpose, its own grandeur, and it's the best in what it's meant to do, so I cannot honestly say, "the World Cup is better!"

[doc_bean]

So anyone think that the results are 100% a product of the sportsmen on the field and not sullied by a murkey mix of pharmaceuticals and betting leagues?

After the mess in Europe the last year or so, I think FIFA is probably keeping a close eye on the betting. As for the pharmaceuticals, they're probably being used, but it matters less here than in a 'pure' physical event, I guess. afaik, drugs aren't going to improve your technique, your perhipeal (sp??) vision or your tactics.

[Papewaio]

afaik, drugs aren't going to improve your technique, your perhipeal (sp??) vision or your tactics.

Your speed and power and hence technique can be improved.
Recovery time and stamina can be improved so more training and hence technique improved again.
Your tactics can change because you can play a faster game and wear down the opposition.

For instance growth hormone has been shown to improve motor development (coordinantion/technique) and enhances bone and muscle strength.