English translation of an archived publication. The roles, rules and references cited reflect its original publication date.
Sportswashing is the practice of using sport, whether through a sporting event, a sports team or more generally, as a means of improving one’s reputation.
The aim, through substantial investment in sport, is to compensate for a policy weakness or divert attention from a poor record, for example on human rights.
Saudi Arabia, which has adopted this development strategy, finds itself at the centre of controversy after seeking to spend €150 million to sponsor the Madrid women’s team while its policy on women’s rights is being strongly challenged. By moving into this arena, the country hopes to improve its image through sportswashing.
📷 tribuna
Real Madrid C.F.