WFC Qatar 2022: footballers’ activism, human rights and reflections on events that occurred during the final award ceremony

Abstract

With an eye to the applicable sporting regulations and considering what has been written in two previous articles by the same author, some specific events that took place on the FIFA World Cup, hosted in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022, will be examined. The efficacy and effectiveness of the rules governing the right of athletes to express themselves on the playing field and respect for the ceremonial on the podium will be discussed for the purposes of the strategic intentions of leaving a positive social legacy in the host country and for all fans. It will be concluded that controversial and even divisive attitudes continue to occur, even with good intentions and in creative forms sometimes consistent with the regulations, which can modify the effectiveness of events in promoting friendship, respect for the diversity of cultures and points of view. On the one hand, the rules protect the rightful prerogatives of event owners, relieved of responsibilities they cannot have. On the other hand, there is room for the creativity of activists, avoiding that their expectations are completely stifled and that there are unnecessary restrictions on their behavior. There is a dynamic balance which, even with conflicting opinions, has not prevented up to know to continue to gather the whole world through the unifying passion aroused by sporting events.