KARACHI:
The sports world is facing an enormous challenge in the politicisation of sports, an issue that needs the immediate focus of sports associations. This politicisation is the result of the increasing influence of political leaders on sports organisations, as well as the fact that people with political backgrounds frequently run national sports bodies. This has caused the true spirit of sports to have fallen victim to political tensions.
FIFA’s treatment of Iran in the World Cup is a case in point, depicting how political tensions manifest on the field. Similarly, Pakistan and India too often refuse to play against each other. Depriving people of these highly anticipated contests further demonstrates the effects of political tensions on sports. Moreover, the Russian football association is facing a ban from FIFA. This ban is unjustified because sports are meant to bring people together, not punish athletes for the acts of politicians.
Therefore, it is imperative that sports organisations free themselves from political influence. This will ensure that sports are played in their true spirit and not converted into a battleground.
Malik Bilal Rasheed
Islamabad
