Sportswashing is the practice of laundering one's reputation through sports; whether that be through team ownership, hosting a major tournament, or sponsorship. A country or politician gets involved with the hope that some of the sport's popularity will improve their image.

Sportswashing isn't a new problem. In fact, it's one of the oldest tricks in an autocrat's international relations playbook. Those familiar with European history probably remember Adolf Hitler's reasons for hosting the 1936 Olympic games.

Why is sportswashing effective? And what can the international community do to combat it?

We discuss all this and more.

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