The Power Play: Assessing the Impact of Hosting Global Sporting Events

Background: Nations increasingly utilize international sporting events as tools for enhancing their global influence, yet the relationship between hosting costs and diplomatic benefits remains understudied. Previous research has focused primarily on economic impacts while giving limited attention to broader strategic outcomes. Aim: Kelly Fong’s research paper “The Power Play: Assessing the Impact of Hosting Global Sporting Events” examines how host nations leverage mega sporting events to enhance their global standing, analyzing the gap between anticipated outcomes and actual results through Steven Lukes’ three dimensions of power framework. Methods: The research employs a mixed-methods approach analyzing four key indicators: 1) image enhancement, using case studies of the 2022 Qatar World Cup and 2018 Russia World Cup; 2) social movement mobilization; 3) diplomatic relationship development; and 4) cybersecurity challenge management, with specific focus on the 2024 Paris Olympics preparations. Results: While direct economic benefits prove limited, the analysis reveals that strategic hosting of global sporting events yields significant soft power gains. Host nations demonstrate enhanced diplomatic leverage, though outcomes vary based on pre-existing international relationships and execution effectiveness. Social movements emerge as both challenges and opportunities, while cybersecurity concerns represent an emerging critical factor in event management. Conclusion: The findings suggest that mega sporting events serve as effective tools for diplomatic influence when properly leveraged, despite their substantial costs. This research provides a framework for understanding how nations can optimize their hosting strategies to achieve strategic diplomatic objectives while managing associated risks and challenges.