Racism in Soccer: Eliminating Soccer Racism and Using Sport as a Vehicle for National Change

Abstract

Racism and soccer have long been intertwined, however the upcoming 2010 World Cup in South Africa poses a unique opportunity to study the relationship between racism and sport. In studying previous international sporting events, specifically the 2006 World Cup in Germany, the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa, it is evident that sport is often strategically used to promote specific ideals. Throughout these historical tournaments, the games have succeeded in not only promoting positive values within the sporting arenas but also in carrying these values over to the general society. I am interested it studying how the upcoming World Cup can be used to not only reduce racism in soccer but also promote equality throughout South Africa.