Saudi Arabia will host the inaugural Esports Olympics in 2024, marking the first commercial deal between the country and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The 12-year partnership aims to attract young audiences and promote esports within the Olympic movement.
Russia’s participation in the upcoming Paris Olympics has been significantly reduced as numerous athletes have refused to compete under the IOC’s stringent conditions, which include competing as neutrals without their national symbols. While 36 Russian athletes were initially cleared, only 16 remain on the official list due to the boycott. The athletes’ decision stems from their belief that the restrictions are discriminatory and undermine Russian national pride.
Despite the International Olympic Committee (IOC) inviting 36 Russians and 22 Belarusians to compete in the Paris Olympics under a neutral banner, only 16 Russians and 17 Belarusians have accepted. Many athletes, including the top-ranked female tennis players, have declined, citing the IOC’s selection process or their opposition to the war in Ukraine.
The Olympics, a global spectacle, are more than just athletic competition. This article delves into the complex world of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), revealing its business model, political influence, and the controversies surrounding the Games. From the lucrative broadcast rights and sponsorships to the costs borne by host nations, the article provides a critical look at the Olympics’ financial structure. It also examines the power dynamics within the IOC, the role of volunteers, and the intertwined relationship between sports and politics. Furthermore, the article explores the bid process, the financial risks for host cities, and the scandals that have plagued the Olympics throughout history.
World Athletics has sparked controversy by offering bonuses to athletes for Olympic medals, setting a precedent for sports federations to reward their athletes directly for their Olympic performances.
