Russia squeaked into the World Cup because they were the host nation. Expectations were low, as they were one of the “worst” teams in the field – but, they’ve responded nicely, defeating Saudi Arabia (probably the only team worse than Russia in this World Cup) 5-0, and then surprisingly defeating Egypt 3-1. But, apparently, that’s not enough to satisfy one Russian politician.
The controversial politician who sponsored Russia’s much-maligned “gay propaganda” law has launched a bill that would make it a criminal offense to criticize the country’s national soccer team.
That’s right, Vitaly Milonov, who likes to think of himself as one of Russia’s tough guy political influencers (because, you know, they don’t have enough of those), apparently thinks his nation’s World Cup squad are so delicate as to be unable to cope with a few harsh words from fans or in the media.
According to RT.com, the website of Russia’s Kremlin-backed television network, Milonov is behind a bill that would see fines of $160 levied on anyone found guilty of “verbally tormenting” the team.
He strongly believes in his argument, reasoning that such criticism lowers national morale.
Shit, I want to become a politician so I can argue when stuff affects morale.
“Folks, I have found that work affects national morale…therefore, it is illegal to have a day job now. If you are caught violating this law, you will be fined $100,000 that will go directly into my pocket.” Probably wouldn’t work in practice, but that doesn’t matter if we’re just out here saying things like, “let’s make it illegal to criticize a team.”
I’ll admit – I don’t know much about this guy, but I also don’t regularly keep up with Russian politics deep cuts. Nonetheless, he sounds like a real piece of work.
Could you imagine if we made “lowering national morale” a crime in America? The government would be swimming in more of our money than they already are. At least we’d be okay – we never publicize things that would affect national morale.
Anyway, here’s your daily reminder that Russia can be fucking crazy.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Alabama Crimson Tide football, the WWE, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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