Sport and Politics: Athletes involved in politics

 FIFA has Petitions to Ban Iran from the 2022 World Cup

In topic 7, we discussed "Sport and Politics" and how the two are interconnected. As Dr. Higgs often says, "sports don't live in a vacuum". We talked about sporting events being used as a platform for athletes and teams to voice their concerns and opinions. The first example of this was Tommie Smith and John Carlos raising their fists during the medal ceremony for the 200-meter race in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. They protested to raise awareness of the poor treatment of African Americans in the United States. Smith and Carlos were stripped of their medals and sent home.

Another reason for athletes to protest is a condemnation of war. We discussed Toni Smith, from Manhatanville College, protesting the war in Iran. Also, we discussed Muhammad Ali, protesting the war in Vietnam. These decisions came with much scrutiny. 

As history often repeats itself, there is more controversy surrounding protests and a major sporting event. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar is just around the corner and FIFA has been petitioned remove Iran from the World Cup due to human rights violations and rumors of Iran aiding Russia in their war with Ukraine.

The Ukraine FA petitioned FIFA to remove Iran from the World Cup. Iran Human Rights Activists News Agency (IRANA) reported that 284 people have been killed due to protests. That incident was followed by a woman dying in police custody because she was wearing her hijab "improperly". Many believe there is enough evidence to remove Iran from the World Cup, but they are usure if action will be taken. 

Here is a link to a video on Iran's potential World Cup ban

Between sport and politics, we are all one

Should Athletes Use their Platform to make Political Statements?

Qatar World Cup 2022: Ukraine FA wants Fifa to ban Iran from tournament - BBC Sport