Analysis of power-political relationships and dynamics in sport: A Review Study

The aim of the present study was to analyze the connections and dynamics of power and politics in sport. This review and analysis study was conducted using a library research method, analyzing 150 valid studies from reputable scientific databases. The findings indicated that studies on the interaction between power and sports politics in the country have been primarily examined through three approaches: the involvement of politicians in sports, the involvement of athletes in politics, and sports diplomacy. In the first approach, the main areas of political interference in sports include the appointment of provincial sports directors, Ministry of Sports officials, and federation leaders. These interventions often involved lobbying, political bargaining, impeachment threats, and pressure from national authorities. In the second approach, athletes entering politics have pursued personal motives alongside social and national ones. These motives include gaining societal prestige, increasing fame, attaining higher political positions, financial benefits, and maintaining status in the post-athletic phase. In the third approach, sports diplomacy, as part of public and cultural diplomacy, is used to showcase national authority by hosting sporting events, influencing event outcomes, and securing international sports positions. Overall, sport, with its dynamic and complex interactions with the political sphere at both national and international levels, has emerged as a powerful tool for fostering social cohesion, demonstrating national power, and advancing strategic goals. It has increasingly blurred the boundaries between sporting competitions and politics.