International sports are competitions in which athletes represent more than one country. The most famous example is the Olympic Games, although the FIFA World Cup also qualifies as an international sport. The concept of international sports became more prevalent as travel and communications technologies made it easier for people to meet and compete around the globe.
The rules for international sports are set by international governing bodies, such as the International Olympic Committee for the Summer and Winter Olympics and FIFA and FIBA for soccer and basketball. These organisations play a critical role in ensuring fair competition and protecting athlete rights, while also promoting sport as a global phenomenon.
While many people enjoy watching international sports, it is even more fun to experience them in person. A trip to an international sporting event is a great way to immerse yourself in another culture and see how locals live, play and celebrate their favourite sport.
Some of the biggest international sporting events include the World Cup (soccer), the Tour de France (cycling), the Ashes test series in men’s and women’s cricket, the PGA Championships in golf and the French Open in tennis. In addition to these major competitions, there are a number of other international multi-sport events such as the Gay Games (open to all regardless of sexual orientation), Asian Games and the Winter Olympic Games.
However, the impact of international sports extends far beyond the arena of the stadium and can have a profound effect on countries, their cultures and, ultimately, their world view. As the recent execution of Iranian athletes by their government shows, sport can be used as a tool to spread propaganda and stoke nationalist sentiment.