You are right @broncofan99. The sports all over the world is getting more and more 'americanized'. I wouldnt be surprised if in less than a decade we will see European Champions League being run something similar to the NFL and NBA.
The distinction between american sports and the rest of the world is almost inexistent nowadays.
While for the political part of the question i would argue thar only a decade ago sports players were not considered just employees (at least not in Europe).
Nevertheless, even employees have the right to have and express their opinions...
RE: ADSactly Sports - When Politics and Sports collide