In international sports, participants represent more than one country. This is most famously seen at the Olympic Games, though events like the FIFA World Cup are also internationally contested. International sporting organisations are responsible for managing and monitoring the various disciplines that make up a global sport. This includes the day-to-day administration of the sport, and ensuring that its practical organisation during the Olympics is on track.

In ancient Greece, city states of the same region would compete at Olympia, putting aside internal rivalries for a month, and thus setting the precedent for what we now call international sport. This is partly why the Olympic Games are so revered, and what makes it such a powerful symbol of peace and unity.

While the Olympic Games and the football World Cup are the most obvious examples of international sports, smaller international competitions such as the Universiade or Six Nations Rugby tournament have similar impacts on local culture. The economic clout of these events is also significant.

With the spread of international travel and the development of television, international sport became more accessible. In 1896 the first modern Olympic Games were held, and in 1904 FIFA was established to formalise association football’s international reach, allowing the first Football World Cup to be held a year later.

With the right conditions, host countries can benefit greatly from international sporting events. However, the influence of money and the power of governing bodies can often mean that corrupt dictatorships can take advantage of these events to further victimise their people. The international sports organisations that govern these major events must address these issues, and ensure that their athletes are safe from political interference.