In the midst of profound global challenges and the re-emergence of geopolitics, sport is increasingly being utilised by governments, policy makers, businesses and others to achieve a multiplicity of goals. This includes using sport to build diplomatic relationships, enhance soft power, ease international tensions, and strengthen strategic position.

A growing symbiotic relationship of sport, global networks and geopolitics is increasingly evident. Qatar’s staging of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, China’s policy of stadium diplomacy in Africa, investments by sovereign wealth funds in sport, and the use of sports sponsorship programmes by national airlines are some of the many examples highlighting the significance of geopolitics and sport.

IRIS and emlyon business school collaborate on publishing timely, value-adding content that provides intelligent, informed analyses of contemporary issues in geopolitics and sport.

This platform will publish short articles, interviews, policy papers, podcasts and webinaire, all linked with sport and geopolitics.