Qatar’s bid for the World Cup : the role of sport in international relations

Abstract

This thesis examines the role of sport in International Relations and how countries like Qatar are utilising it in order to enhance their image. In reviewing the relevant literature on the links between sport and soft power politics, reseach shows that most scholars adhere to the conclusion that states are using sport in order to promote peace and security, to achieve national health, to enhance their influence in the international arena and for wealth creation and development. Hence, upon the discussion of those scholars presented in the literature review chapter, this thesis draws a square model to represent those four arguments that states are using sport for peace, health, wealth and influence. However, with regard to the case of Qatar, the thesis concludes that, Qatar is using sport in order to achieve political influence, to confront the national health problem and as a way of modernizing the country. Therefore, this thesis illustrates these aims or objectives in the triangular model unlike the square model. And hence, the triangular model shows that Qatar is trying to pursuade the world that, it is a modernizing state and also that it is taking care of its own citezens by promoting the health and life style of its people. But, above all Qatar is seeking power to influence the views of others in the international arena