Examining anti-racism approaches in sport: a scoping review

The significant issue of racism in sport is widely documented but less attention has been directed towards examining how it can be addressed. To develop an understanding of how anti-racism work can be enacted in sport, a scoping review was undertaken that critically examines peer-reviewed literature on anti-racism in sport (1994–2024), guided by the overarching question: What is the nature of anti-racism approaches in sport? The review examined contexts, approaches employed, and evidence of impact. Database searches returned 380 records; 32 articles met the inclusion criteria with expert consultation identifying a further 8 articles. These were thematically analysed. Two overarching anti-racism approaches were identified: regulatory mechanisms and education. There was limited evidence of the effectiveness of any approach, particularly in relation to sustained change. Policies were effective in signalling opposition to overt racism and establishing sanctions, but were narrowly framed and enforced inconsistently. Education initiatives were advocated for within anti-racism work but very few had been evaluated to assess their effectiveness. Knowledge gaps included anti-racism to combat online racism, intersectional approaches to anti-racism, and anti-racism in community sport. The results highlight a need for embedded, multilayered and accountable approaches if racism is to be addressed within sporting contexts.