Major Sporting Events Research Articles

A Novel E-Social Servicescape Perspective: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Audience Members’ Interactions During Sports Event Broadcasting in a Livestreaming Media Environment

Nowadays, platforms like Douyin attract large audiences during major sports events. In this study, with the aim of enhancing audience satisfaction in livestreaming media environments, we applied social servicescape theory to a livestreaming media environment and used a mixed-methods approach to understand why audiences choose to watch sports events on new media. We developed a theoretical model of audience satisfaction to examine sports event broadcasts on short video platforms. Following 24 semi-structured interviews, we conducted a quantitative survey of 490 participants. The results showed that user interaction and similarity are crucial factors influencing audience members’ choice of livestreaming and that the social attributes and interactive features of livestreaming enhance their sense of immersion, belonging, and nostalgia. Moreover, interactivity and similarity positively impact these emotional experiences, significantly boosting audience satisfaction. This research expands the theoretical understanding of online interactions and offers new insights for designing engaging livestreaming platforms.

Beyond Sentiment Exploring the Dynamics of AIGC-Generated Sports Content and User Engagement on Xiaohongshu

This study explores the impact of AIGC-generated sports content on user sentiment and engagement on Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform.Using MediaCrawler, we collected posts and comments related to sports topics generated by AI. Sentiment analysis was performed using SnowNLP to classify comments as positive or negative, with 57.1% showing positive sentiment and 42.9% negative. Despite the prevalence of positive sentiment, no significant difference in engagement (measured by likes) was observed between positive and negative comments.Temporal analysis revealed that user engagement is event-driven, with spikes in positive sentiment during major sports events. Additionally, word cloud analysis highlighted promotional and spam-like themes, suggesting challenges in content moderation. The interaction patterns showed a skewed distribution, with a small number of highly active users dominating discussions.The findings suggest that timing, relevance, and event alignment are more critical than sentiment polarity in driving engagement.The study provides insights for content creators and platforms on optimizing AIGC strategies through trend alignment and effective user collaboration.

China’s ‘Stadium Diplomacy’ in West Asia and North Africa: Soft-power Tool for Political and Economic Influence

China’s ‘Stadium Diplomacy’ in West Asia and North Africa (WANA) is a soft power strategy used to increase its regional political and economic influence. This strategy is part of a broader trend in which China increasingly uses soft power tools to project its global influence. Chinese companies are involved in building and funding large-scale sports facilities and stadiums used as venues for major international sports events. By investing in sports infrastructure, China can project an image of economic and technological prowess and gain access to raw materials, mineral resources, and markets while fostering closer diplomatic ties with countries in the region. Nevertheless, there are also concerns that China’s soft power efforts are being used to mask more strategic and geopolitical goals. While stadium diplomacy can be an effective soft power tool for building economic relationships and increasing influence, it must also be scrutinised and understood in the context of China’s broader strategic goals and interests.

Optimizing light environments in aquatics center to enhance the performance of Olympic champions and other elite swimmers: An experimental study

Several major international sports events in the next five years require new sports venues, with lighting environments being a crucial factor. Typically, the lighting systems in sports venues are primarily for illumination. However, since light has been indicated to affect human psychology and physiology, we investigated whether the light environments in sports buildings impact athletic performance. Additionally, swimming is the indoor sport with the most gold medals in the Olympics. Therefore, we conducted a within-subject, randomized crossover study in an aquatics center with fourteen elite swimmers, including the Olympic champions and Asian champions (6 female and 8 male; 19.3 ± 3.4 years of age). During the experiment, the elite swimmers were exposed to either a common correlated color temperature (CCT) light environment (controlled condition: 5780 K) or an experimental light environment (8512 K) in the aquatics center, with both having the same illuminance (1020 lx). The neurobehavioral and swimming test results showed that the Olympic champions and other elite swimmers had significantly faster responses, fewer lapses, greater arousal, less visual fatigue, quicker reactions at start, and higher swimming speeds in the experimental condition compared to the controlled condition (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that the light environment in the aquatics center affects swimmers' non-visual performance and enhancing the CCT of the light environment could improve swimmers' performance. We propose the concepts of Sports Lighting Beyond Illumination and Sports Human-Centric Lighting to enhance athletes’ health and performance, and to improve the sports environment for a better experience for all participants.

A Brief Analysis of The Economic Impact of Major Sporting Event on The Host City

The study of sports competition is a crucial field of research that comprises subjects such as economics, sociology, and other related fields. Scholars in this endeavour to tackle paramount questions with profound practical ramifications, which includes exploring the qualities and movements that underlie sports competition. Exploring the factors that influence sports competition outcomes and the ways in which these factors shape diverse competitive landscapes is a valuable and significant research area. This research examines the economic impact of major sports events on the host city. The aim of this research is to provide a thorough analysis of the economic consequences that follow from hosting such events. Through a synthesis of existing literature and empirical analysis, the research investigates the various facets of the economic impact of major sports events, encompassing employment, local commerce, tourism, and infrastructure development. The results indicate that such events can yield significant economic gains, ultimately promoting regional growth and development. However, a thorough analysis of the available evidence emphasises the importance of adopting a multidimensional viewpoint that takes into the account the social, cultural, and environmental ramifications. Despite the intricacies and constraints in accurately measuring the magnitude of the effects, this research ascertains that organising major sports events can generate favourable economic consequences for the locality. The results emphasise the significances of thorough analyses and additional research to enhance our comprehension of the economic implications of hosting such events.

Propositions and Recommendations for Enhancing the Legacies of Major Sporting Events for Disadvantaged Communities and Individuals

This consensus statement is the outcome of comprehensive collaboration through an international working group on the disparities in the legacies of major sporting events, specifically for communities and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds (CIDBs). The workshop brought together scholars to discuss current challenges and develop four propositions and recommendations for event leveraging, policy stakeholders, and researchers. The propositions included (1) the nature of “disadvantage” needs to be recognized and the specific targeted CIDBs in each event context must be carefully identified or clearly defined; (2) CIDBs should be considered as an integral part of the whole event hosting cycle to ensure legacy inclusivity; (3) dedicated event leverage, sufficient financial backing, and resource commitments for CIDBs are needed; and (4) it is critical to establish a system of legacy governance for CIDBs. The recommendations aim to inform change in practice and ensure lasting positive legacies for the communities that need them most.

Deaths and clashes induced by rivalry among fans during FIFA World Cup 2022 in Bangladesh.

International sports events like the Football World Cup affect the collective emotions of the global community. Usually, major sports events like the Football World Cup show beneficial effects on the community. However, many unwanted consequences such as accidents, premature deaths and violent supporter rivalries have been noticed during it. We aimed to report preventable premature deaths and clashes induced by rivalry among fans during the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Bangladesh. We monitored local newspaper reports for data collection during the World Cup 2022 event and collected data for age, sex, the possible cause of death, and precipitating events related to the event. We found 23 World Cup Football-related deaths, 35 hospitalizations, and 45 injuries related to clashes between the rival fans of Argentina and Brazil. The median age of deceased was 20 years. The majority of the deaths happened in young males due to fall while hoisting flags. Deaths in the late age happened due to sudden emotional upsurge during the game day. And, clashes between rival fans mostly happened due to social bullying favoring and disfavoring a team. This report indicates an important area of potentially preventable death related to World Cup Football and warrants public health attention even in a non-participating country, both locally and internationally.

Legacies and impacts of major sporting events for communities and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds: a systematic review

PurposeThe global hosting of major events is garnering increasing attention from governments. As this phenomenon expands into emerging states, where arguably the most severe inequalities exist, the question of who truly benefits from these events has not been systematically scrutinised, particularly from an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) perspective. Therefore, adopting a nuanced segmentation approach is increasingly vital to assess the diverse impacts of hosting major sporting events on varied populations. This systematic review offers a broad and exploratory investigation into how major sporting events affect communities and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds (CIDBs).Design/methodology/approachIn alignment with the PRISMA guidelines, four academic databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed articles published in English-language journals from 2000 to 2023. A total of 95 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, culminating in a final sample of 14 articles in the review.FindingsThe selected articles showed moderate quality and primarily used qualitative methods. The urban theories or event leverage frameworks are frequently employed. There are four legacy/impact themes that emerged: social, economic, sport and infrastructure. The prevailing conclusion is that CIDBs tend to experience negative legacies from these events.Research limitations/implicationsThis research underscores the pressing need for more socially responsible and equitable approaches to event hosting. Failing to tackle these crucial issues may intensify existing inequalities and provoke significant public dissatisfaction, thereby jeopardising the overarching goals these major events strive to accomplish.Originality/valueThis review marks the first of its kind, offering a thorough and comprehensive synthesis of evidence concerning the legacies of major events for CIDBs.

Independence of Sports Clubs in the United Arab Emirates (Football Companies As An Example)

Investment in the field of sports is considered one of the most important investments, as it plays a major role in the economic development of countries and achieving successive successes attracts multiple foreign capital. Sports investment also plays an important role in the economies of countries due to its importance in attracting local and foreign investments, and its role in hosting major sporting events in countries. The idea of establishing sports companies began with the process of implementing professionalism in the nineties of the last century. Therefore, this study addresses the independence of sports clubs in the United Arab Emirates, by explaining the importance of sport, its role in investment, and its importance in the national economy, and reviewing the experience of the United Arab Emirates in with a case study of Al Ain Football Club in the United Arab Emirates before and after its conversion. To a football sports company, by explaining the concept of sports clubs and explaining the most important concepts related to the subject of the study, as well as clarifying the privatization of football sports clubs and the advantages of this privatization, as well as its negatives, and the most important risks facing the privatization of sports clubs. The study aimed to identify the obstacles to the independence of sports clubs, The researcher used the research sample by using a questionnaire form as a means of collecting data and analyzing the results to reach the most important results of the study, while including the study with many recommendations at the conclusion of the study.

Place branding strategies through Winter Olympic games

ABSTRACT Purpose The purpose of this research is to examine how place branding strategies, undertaken by countries which belong to distinctive clusters, can manifest differently via the Winter Olympic Games. Methods In this paper, the experiences of Winter Olympics hosted by three countries (Russia, South Korea, China), are examined using Richelieu et al.’s framework, alongside clusters introduced in 2022. The study adopts a content analysis. Findings The framework is validated: the perceived importance of soft power and a country’s resources, differences in the measures and strategies used by the host countries, are confirmed. Practical implications Countries that set higher importance on sport diplomacy (Russia and China: “diplomacy branding”) are more assertive. In contrast, South Korea takes a more balanced approach, as it considers its action across a wider spectrum of areas (“balanced structure”). Research contribution The framework can explain the differences in the experiences of host countries, by also referring to the public choice theory. This paper illustrates how place branding strategies through sporting events, such as Winter Olympics, can differ between countries depending on the perceived role of public diplomacy, sport diplomacy, soft power and the economic resources invested. Originality/Value The article widens avenues for future research on major sporting events, through different clusters, by borrowing a holistic approach.

THE INFLUENCE OF CULTURAL FACTORS ON THE INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT OF MAJOR SPORTING EVENTS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF OLYMPIC GAMES

It is possible to understand from various articles that besides economic, social and political factors, cultural factors also have a great influence on the management of various major sports events and the decisions of these management committees. Cultural factors appear as one of the main influencing factors in the implementation and management of sports events. These cultural factors include the peculiarities of the country's culture, religious and ethnic factors, programs intended for the education and cultural development of future generations, and other factors. The influence of cultural factors in the organization of the Olympic Games can lead to serious effects seen in areas such as forming relations between countries, promoting nationnal identity, and combining sports and culture. In this study, in the context of a comparative analysis of the Olympic Games, the influence of cultural factors on the organization and management of major sporting events, and the extent to which these influences are focused on.

Rússia X Ucrânia: análise dos impactos da guerra nos esportes

The analysis of the Russia-Ukraine war focused on the conflict's effects on the global sports landscape, with particular emphasis on the socio- economic impacts experienced by Russia. The study highlights the sporting sanctions imposed on the country, which led to the exclusion of its athletes from international competitions such as the World Cup and the Champions League, as well as the cancellation of major sporting events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Through a qualitative approach, the research examined the interrelationship between social and economic factors and the broader implications of these sanctions on Russia. Additionally, the study explored Russia's use of sports as a tool of soft power and the weakening of its sports diplomacy as a result of the sanctions imposed by the international community. The paper concludes that these sanctions reflect the growing geopolitical ramifications within the world of sports and suggests that enhanced global cooperation could provide a pathway to mitigating such conflicts.

Human rights and the olympics: from an ideological paradox to a new anti-corruption legacy.

This article aims to explore the evolution of the debates surrounding human rights in the discourse(s) of major sporting events (MSEs), particularly the Olympics. The paper will first analyse the western-centric origins of the "universality" of the Olympic philosophy and how it affected the protection and promotion of human rights, as well as addressing practical challenges or limitations faced. It will then focus on unpacking the elements of sportswashing and soft power in the multi-discursive context of sport where power, privilege, politics, and position are (re)produced. In doing so it draws upon the emergent field of Sports Diplomacy as the most appropriate explanatory framework to share in this discourse. Finally, it will explore the potential impact of anti-corruption reforms on the establishment of a meaningful human rights legacy.

Major sporting events, corporate social responsibility, and the value of sports-listed companies

This study explores the interconnection among major sporting events, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and the valuations of sports-listed companies. Sporting events now serve as global engagement platforms beyond mere competition. Through a mixed-methods approach including literature reviews, quantitative financial analyses, and qualitative CSR strategy explorations, this research examines how companies' involvement in such events and their CSR initiatives influence their overall values. The study aims to uncover the relationships between sporting events, CSR practices, and market performances of sports-related firms, offering valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and investors navigating the complexities of sports, CSR, and corporate valuations.

Residents' Support for Major Sporting Events in the Postponement Context: A Case Study of the 31st Summer Universiade

ABSTRACTThe COVID‐19 pandemic forced the postponement of some international events, such as the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which negatively impacted residents and the local tourism industry. Therefore, it is necessary to understand residents' support for hosting major sporting events. We surveyed 769 residents using a structural equation model and applied social exchange theory (SET) to analyse the 31st Summer Universiade and examine their support for hosting major sporting events. The results revealed a significant relationship between postponement risk perception and the perceived costs and benefits, which affected the residents' support for hosting major events. These findings confirmed perceived benefits and costs as key factors determining residents' support for/opposition to major events. We proposed the residents' postponement risk perception concept, integrated it into the event tourism research model, and expanded the explanatory power of SET in unconventional contexts, providing stakeholders with references for planning and hosting events under special circumstances.

FOREIGN PRACTICE OF MASS SPORT FUNDING

The purpose of the research is to study the foreign experience of the financial provision for mass sport and to identify possible sources of its funding using the example of Great Britain. Particular attention is paid to the problems of major sporting events financing that can attract global audience and sponsors seeking to increase the attractiveness of their brands and products. The conducted research allowed us to identify areas for attracting financial sources for sports organisations of various levels

The 2022 FIFA world cup in Qatar: resident interests and attitudes

ABSTRACT This study examined residents’ attitudes towards the staging of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and assess their interest and level of support or opposition to this mega sport event. Guided by the Social Exchange Theory (SET) and the Social Representation Theory (SRT), the study used a survey conducted in 2019, involving 2031 residents: 1017 Qataris and 1014 non-Qataris. T-test and ANOVA analyses were employed. Examination of the factors shaping residents’ attitudes towards and interest in Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup revealed strong and positive associations between respondents’ demographic characteristics and their interest. Significant relationships were identified between respondents’ gender, nationality and educational level and interest in the 2022 World Cup. Findings suggest directions for sports policy makers and sport event managers to improve strategic planning for hosting major sporting events. Future research can draw on this study’s findings for adaption to other contexts.

Communicating inclusiveness through major sporting events: development and application of a framework

ABSTRACT Major sporting events (MSEs) have been used by governments to improve the image of cities and nations, and to attract tourists. In the wake of criticism of how global MSEs handle human-rights issues, governments are pressured to rethink how these events are organised and branded. Developing and employing an analytical framework based on inclusive place branding and pathways to progressive human-rights outcomes, this study explores how and to whom inclusiveness is communicated in five Olympic Games candidate files. A quantitative content analysis is performed using keywords related to inclusiveness and three characteristics of inclusiveness are analysed qualitatively: democratic representation, inclusive participation, and committed transformation. The findings show that three of the candidate files predominantly belong to the traditional place branding paradigm through their focus on external stakeholders, while two have adopted a more inclusive place branding strategy and put emphasis on internal stakeholders. The analytical framework introduced in this study can be useful for both researchers and practitioners – such as prospective hosts of MSEs and other events – as a conceptual tool to analyse and develop inclusiveness in major events.

Analisis Sentimen AFC U23 Asian Cup 2024 menggunakan Algoritma Naïve Bayes

The AFC U-23 Asian Cup is a very important football tournament watched by millions of fans across Asia and the world. Sentiment analysis of these events can provide insight into how the public feels and opinions towards the matches, teams and players, which can be very beneficial for organizers, sponsors and the media. This research uses the Naïve Bayes algorithm to group words from the Twitter application with the aim ofprovide a significant contribution to the understanding of public perception and fan involvement in major sporting events such as the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2024. The results of this research withusing the Naïve Bayes algorithm to analyze public opinion regarding the 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup gave an accuracy value of 78%. These results show that the Naïve Bayes model has quite good performance in carrying out sentiment analysis. Keywords: AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2024, Sentimen, Naïve Bayes, Twitter

Healthy environments for athleTes (HEAT): environmental conditions along a 90km ultra-marathon event, South Africa.

This paper provides an overview of the HEAT (Healthy Environments for AthleTes) project, which aims to understand the impact of environmental conditions on athlete health and performance during major sporting events such as long-distance running, cycling, and triathlons. In collaboration with the SAFER (Strategies to reduce Adverse medical events For the ExerciseR) initiative, the HEAT project carried out a field campaign at the 2022 Comrades Marathon in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. The measurement campaign deployed seven weather stations, seven PM2.5 monitors and one spore trap along the 90km route to capture spatially representative measurements of complex micro-climates, allergenic aerospora, and particulate matter exposure. The results indicate that runners were exposed to moderate risk heat stress conditions. Novel findings from this initial campaign shows elevated and potentially harmful PM2.5 levels at spectator areas, possibly coinciding with small fire events around the race day festivities. Our findings show values PM2.5 levels over the WHO 24-h guidelines at all stations, while 2000µg/m3 at two stations. However, the lack of an acute exposure standard means direct health impacts cannot be quantified in the context of a sport event. The HEAT project highlights important aspects of race day monitoring; regional scale climatology has an impact on the race day conditions, the microclimatic conditions (pollution and meteorology) are not necessarily captured by proximity instruments and direct environmental measurements are required to accurately capture conditions along the route.