What Are the Olympics For?

The International Olympic Committee often touts the slogan "Athletes first," but the reality is very different, as athletes are increasingly voicing concerns over physical, mental, and sexual abuse and expressing grievances around equity and human rights. Outside the stadiums, problems range from the democratic deficit and corruption surrounding the awarding of the Games to displacement of people and gentrification of neighborhoods to make way for Olympic venues. Radical steps are required to fix the Games and make them truly "athletes first."

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Athletes come first, a mantra that the International Olympic Committee frequently promotes, but the reality is far different, as demonstrated by renowned Olympics expert Jules Boykoff in this book. While the world's attention is captivated by the triumphs and struggles unfolding on their screens, there is a significant undertone of concern that goes unnoticed: athletes are increasingly raising their voices against physical, mental, and sexual abuse, and they are united in their grievances regarding equity and human rights.

Beyond the confines of the stadiums, a range of issues emerge. The democratic deficit and corruption surrounding the awarding of the Games are a source of deep concern, as are the displacement of communities and the gentrification of neighborhoods to accommodate Olympic venues. Moreover, the environmental damage caused by Olympic construction, which is then attempted to be masked by greenwashing measures, is a pressing concern.

Boykoff emphasizes the urgent need for radical solutions if the Games are to be rectified and truly prioritize the well-being of athletes. Only then can the Olympic movement regain its integrity and fulfill its mission of promoting sportsmanship, unity, and excellence on a global scale.

Weight: 166g
Dimension: 128 x 202 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529230284