The Hand of God Meets the Hand of Climate Alarmism

As the Far Middle approaches its 200^th episode, Nick begins with the series’ first sports dedication to honor a soccer great. That legend is Diego Maradona, whom Nick describes as the most dynamic, charismatic, and clutch athlete in soccer history.

Nick recounts Maradona's humble beginnings in Buenos Aires, his rise to stardom, and his iconic transfer from Barcelona to Napoli in 1984, which resonated personally for Nick given his family roots in Naples. Maradona's arrival transformed Napoli from an underdog southern Italian club into champions, symbolizing a victory for the working class against wealthier northern teams. Despite Maradona's off-field controversies—including drug issues and alleged mafia connections—Naples maintained deep affection for him, eventually renaming their stadium in his honor.

Highlighting Maradona's ascent to mythical status at the 1986 World Cup, Nick recalls his controversial 'Hand of God' goal and another widely considered the greatest goal in World Cup history, both from the quarterfinal match against England. While admiring Maradona's unparalleled talent on the field, Nick also critiques his Leftist political leanings and associations with controversial figures like Fidel Castro and Nicolás Maduro.

From Maradona's undeniable soccer greatness, Nick connects to climate alarmism within sports journalism. He examines an article asserting soccer faces threats from climate change, criticizing the piece’s lack of evidence and sensationalist tone. Initiatives like stadium solar arrays, batteries, and relying on wind-powered electricity are more about virtue signaling than genuine environmental benefit, and they often result in higher actual carbon footprints compared to conventional energy sources.

Continuing to address the realities of affordable and reliable energy, Nick next highlights a recent editorial from author Bjorn Lomborg, “Green Energy Costs a Bundle.” Citing examples from Germany and other European countries, Nick shows how greater reliance on renewables leads to higher electricity costs and less reliable energy supplies. He also explains how subsidies mask the true cost of renewables in the United States, advocating for transparency and efficiency reforms.

And as the waning seconds of extra time in episode 199 tick away, Nick connects back to the episode’s soccer start, recommending the 1981 film "Escape to Victory." Starring Sylvester Stallone, Michael Caine, Max von Sydow, Pelé, and other professional soccer players, the movie is set in World War II and centers on Allied POWs playing a soccer match against German opponents amidst escape plans and propaganda schemes. “The ending is great,” says Nick without revealing any spoilers. “You’ll have to watch it to see it.”