Sports and politics are deeply intertwined, but not always in ways that are obvious, or intentional. Sportswashing, the practice of using sports to redirect public attention away from unethical conduct, is purposeful, calculated and often weaponized on a global scale. We’ve seen it with the Olympics - think China in 2022 - occupying a solid chunk of the F1 calendar - think the Abu Dhabi, Azerbaijan, Bahrain and Qatar Grands Prix - and in the NBA’s new forays into creating partnerships with Middle Eastern stakeholders. The hope is that sportswashing acts as a positive public relations rehabilitation for the countries that weaponize it, but sometimes drawing the spotlight leads to the opposite effect. It’s natural to have national pride when it pertains to sports, and in many instances, the line between nationalism and sportswashing is clear-cut. However, it’s the grey areas between them that allow atrocities to be committed while the general public remains ignorant.

Plus, on this week’s Fun Friday, Claire and Jenna build their ideal Thanksgiving day with athletes of their choosing.

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