Conspiracy theory of China Bowl cancellation (ESPN in jest)

[groundgame]

ESPN
PAGE 2
Bill Simmons
April 4, 2007

.... Thoroughly enjoyed this conspiracy theory from Kevin F. in Boston: "I just figured out what nobody in the media has reported on yet: why the Patriots' exhibition game in China this August was canceled. On March 31, the U.S. hit China with a tariff on imported Chinese coated-paper. One day later, the Pats-Seahawks game was oddly and abruptly canceled. My theory is that Kraft's paper business was expanding its presence in China (hence, he lobbied for the China Bowl game so he could hob-nob with top Chinese officials which would be good for business) and the Chinese were pissed about the U.S. paper tariff news, so they abruptly canceled the NFL game and the Krafts have remained mum on the topic because they don't want to ruffle feathers. Notice how they keep refusing to comment on the situation? If you don't believe me, check out the Pravda-like NFL spin. How great is that?"

 

[denverpatsfan]

Sounds VERY plausible to me, but I thought the stadium was not complete yet??

 

[Willie55]

Sounds VERY plausible to me, but I thought the stadium was not complete yet??

They were going to use an old stadium. The olympic use stadium isnt completed yet but with the delay, when they do eventually play them game they will play in the new stadium.

 

[Seymour93]

They were going to use an old stadium. The olympic use stadium isnt completed yet but with the delay, when they do eventually play them game they will play in the new stadium.

Old stadium (Workers Stadium):

New stadium (Olympic Stadium):

 

[PatsWickedPissah]

The new one looks like it's made outa lo mein. Uh, oh.

 

[Patjew]

I think Kraft can hob-nob with top Chinese officials anytime he pleases.

Anyway, whatever the reason, it's good for the team and sucks for me.

 

[Iverson]

Maybe with the over-population problem in China, they couldn't risk letting Brady in the country.

 

[smg93]

Maybe with the over-population problem in China, they couldn't risk letting Brady in the country.

hahahaha. Funny. But as PatJew says, too bad for us fans located in this part of the world. It would have been fun to watch even if it was a preseason game.