The FIFA World Cup ball has been rolling from one headline to another since last year. With the United States as the primary co-host alongside Canada and Mexico, the event has been embroiled in controversy, much like the host country itself. The football tournament is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, and news about it is abundant. From interviews to advertisements, every possible promotional tool is being used for one of the most awaited events in sports. However, it appears that one of the federation's public relations moves may have caused more harm than honor.
Wyland Sues FIFA for $25 Million
Wyland, a renowned muralist, is suing FIFA for a staggering $25 million after his whale painting in downtown Dallas was painted over ahead of the World Cup. The 'Ocean Life' mural was partially covered with blue paint in May to make space for a piece commemorating the nine World Cup matches scheduled in Arlington, Texas. The artist has accused FIFA and the owners of the two buildings where the painting resides of damages, citing the Visual Artists Rights Act of 1990. This law grants artists the right to claim authorship of their publicly displayed works. Wyland claims that the building owners, Slate and 3PZ Property Company, allowed the painting to be "intentionally painted over and permanently destroyed" without seeking the artist's consent. According to the New York Times, Wyland had even sent FIFA and the companies a cease-and-desist letter in May to stop the painting over, but the parties proceeded regardless.
About 'Ocean Life'
Wyland is an environmentalist who incorporates social issues into his artwork. He hand-painted 'Ocean Life' in 1999 as part of the Whaling Wall mural series, which includes whale-focused pieces in dozens of landlocked cities worldwide. Originally, the mural covered two sides of the building, encompassing about 17,000 square feet. Recent photos show that the mural's largest section, spanning the complete rear facade of one building, is entirely covered with blue paint. Only a single humpback whale remains visible, which FIFA has stated will be left to "recognize the cultural and historical significance" of Wyland's piece.
However, according to Wyland's lawsuit, the defendants destroyed a civic landmark. "In their zeal to capitalize on the international attention on Dallas during the FIFA World Cup, Defendants hastily and irrevocably destroyed a civic landmark," the lawsuit states. "Though FIFA claims they were working to develop art for the host city, in truth, they defaced a historic fixture of the host city." The muralist is now requesting a jury trial and that the defendants cover any legal fees as part of a potential resolution. In a statement to The Athletic, FIFA said it had no involvement in the matter whatsoever and referred all inquiries to the host city committee, the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organising Committee.
