According to Wikipedia, ”Sportswashing is a term used to describe the practice of nations, individuals, groups, corporations, or governments using sports to improve reputations tarnished by wrongdoing.” It is used in all types of sports, including football, cricket, rugby, etc., and in prominent international events like the Olympics.
However, sportswashing is most commonly seen in football, where it is used by countries like the UAE to enhance and improve their image. This phenomenon is highlighted by the emergence of Manchester City as one of the leading football clubs. We believe this club is used as a front by the owner, Sheikh Mansour, who is closely linked to the UAE government.
The phenomenon of sportswashing is a strategic ploy by the government of UAE. The club has often been accused of wrongdoing regarding sponsorships and other fiscal scandals. Some high-profile persons like Khaldoon Al Mubarak were accused of being linked directly to these scandals.
Investment by the UAE Government
Sheikh Mansour, the Manchester City Football Club owner, is also the Deputy Prime Minister of UAE. We can infer from this relation that any investment on behalf of Sheikh Mansour is an investment by the government of the UAE. Although they have reiterated time and again that these investments are made to make the club successful. However, anyone within their senses can know that there is much more than just winning titles.
Change in Foreign Policy?
Having monarchy as a form of government, the UAE is known for its repressive policies towards labourers and strict laws. Dissent and any sort of criticism of the government are repressed. However, we think the government is using sportswashing to cover these atrocities. Football is the most popular sport worldwide, so they indirectly target this.
In the old days, when there was not that much of a role for social media, not much attention by states was given to such activities. However, this change in trend, especially on behalf of an authoritarian regime, can be seen as a response.
Football for scoring political goals
On behalf of all the workers and the residents of UAE who were subjected to the atrocities, we condemn their use of football to exploit political gains. Western countries have advocated for free speech and fundamental human rights, especially in countries like the UAE. However, this phenomenon of sportswashing is strategically used by the UAE to establish new partnerships. Many political as well as social goals are being accomplished by the UAE through this.
Sheikh Mansour, as a soldier of the UAE
Ever since Sheikh Mansour acquired the club in 2008, he made his intentions very clear. He wanted to make the club a global superpower in terms of football, and eventually, he did that. Arming the club with top players and coaching staff, he led the club on the right path to success.
However, we all know that all these activities are to serve a bigger purpose. Sheikh Mansour is trying very hard to globally advocate a soft image of the UAE. We may soon see the FIFA World Cup happening in the UAE.
Disguise in blessing
We can say that Manchester City’s success can be a blessing in disguise for the propagation of the soft image of UAE. But there is another angle to look at as they have come into the limelight. Because Sheikh Mansour is directly linked with the government of UAE, his moves are closely observed.
Several human rights groups and NGOs have openly criticised the dual role of the club. Ethical questions were raised over this use of football as a tool to present a false image of modernity. Sports should be independent of any political interference and, therefore, require accountability when such things happen.
Way forward
There is a growing role of sports in the social arena where it is used to doctor the image of a country. It can be used carefully to benefit the people facing issues in countries like the UAE. However, sports and politics should be separate; there should be accountability both on behalf of the governing bodies and the fans.
