Curious Cases

Vancouver, London Deal With Olympic Problems

While ‘08 may have marked a rebirth of the Olympic Movement after the success of the Beijing Games, this year is certainly not starting on the right foot. The news from the next two host cities, Vancouver and London, continues to be dominated by budget crises and debates over the long-term legacy of the respective Games. The Olympics are still a year or three away, but it is clear that the large scale of the events is being impacted more by the global recession than any other sports property. More controversial news for the IOC today comes with reports that it has banned Johann Olav Koss’ int’l charity Right to Play from attending the Vancouver Games and is "completely severing its ties with the organization without explanation.” The GLOBE & MAIL’s Gary Mason calls the IOC's move "one of the worst decisions in its often-troubled history."

Revolutionary Road
NFLPA reportedly narrows search for Upshaw's successor down to five, with high-profile DC attorney DeMaurice Smith a surprise finalist.

Writing On The WALL-E
Motorsports Authentics President & CEO Mark Dyer leaves company after just 18 months.

Slumdog Millionaires
Predators owners may buy hundreds of tickets so team can hit revenue-sharing benchmarks.

The Dark Knight
Economy forces Browns to cut at least 15 employees; total layoffs could reach 40.

Frozen River
As Winter X Games 13 get underway, ESPN reaches deal to keep event in Aspen; Shaun White gets involved with sponsors.

The Visitor
Coke Zero Super Bowl ad reportedly will feature Polamalu in a remake of Mean Joe Greene spot.

Tropic Thunder
Stanford athletics, projecting losses in revenue, is considering cutting jobs, some teams.

The Wrestler
MLB Cardinals GM John Mozeliak lashes out at critical fan during an online chat.