SynopsisThe World Cup is a global spectacle. However, criminal cartels are planning to profit from the upcoming tournament. A podcast explores this dark side, focusing on Mexico. It reveals how organised crime intersects with this massive sporting event. The investigation offers a grounded look at this collision. It is essential pre-match reading.Every four years, the World Cup brings us jaw-dropping goals and roaring stadiums. From its beginnings in Uruguay to the massive tournament kicking off across North America on June 11, it's a global mega-phenomenon. But behind the scenes, reality gets complicated.The Guardian's Today in Focus podcast dives into this dark side with The Criminal Cartels Cashing in on the World Cup. Focusing on co-host Mexico, the episode investigates how organised drug cartels plan to slice off a piece of that massive economic pie.Host Annie Kelly keeps things moving with immersive stadium audio, while guest and Mexican journalist Leon Krauze brings the heart. Krauze shares personal anecdotes about growing up with the game, beautifully balancing his reporting with memories of meeting his wife just before Mexico last hosted the tournament. Fast forward to this year, and the couple is heading back to the stadium with their three boys.The result is a smart, grounded investigation that skips cheap drama to show how sport and criminal enterprise collide. It doesn't ruin the magic of football; it just reminds us that global parties unfold in the real world.It's the perfect pre-kickoff brain food. ...moreElevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea.Subscribe Now