There are obviously a lot more important things going on in the world right now than sports. Russia instigated a full-scale invasion of Ukraine this week, and the amount of devastation and bloodshed could be immense. Our thoughts, like those of anyone with even the hint of a moral compass, lie with the people of Ukraine and against anyone who would support Russian president Vladimir Putin.

Russia should be viewed as a global pariah, and that’s where we do come to a sports connection. The Russians are set to take part in a qualifying playoff for World Cup 2022 on March 24 against Poland, with the winner to play the victor of Sweden-Czech Republic for a spot in Qatar in November.