Abstract

Since the conception of the modern-day Olympic Games, the development and expansion of mega sporting events has provoked the involvement of politics on behalf of the involved states. To understand the connection between the athletic and political arenas, this research seeks to find causality between participation in mega sporting events and the subsequent political interactions that take place following clashes between politically rivaling states involved in competition or controversies at mega sporting events. While research on the general relationship between politics and sport has been introduced, the field of research is yet to see any direct causation or proof that sports influence politics. This research is important for supporting the advertised goal of mega sporting events of promoting peace and international cooperation. To find causality, this research analyzes four significant cases where political rivals were involved in controversies through participation in mega sporting events. The following process tracing links subsequent political interactions to the clashes that took place at the events. This research is valuable for understanding the intended outcomes of mega sporting events and their true impacts.

Advisor

Kille, Kent

Department

Political Science

Publication Date

2025

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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