Question
Popular events like the football World Cup and other international sporting occasions are essential in
easing international tensions and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Answer
It has been suggested that major international sporting events serve the purpose of easing
international tensions and allowing people to release their patriotic fervour in a safe and positive
way. This essay will partially agree with that statement.
It is true that large sporting events are generally good for the population because they allow people
to release their emotions and engage in a primitive sort of bonding that is not common in most of
society today. When people support their country, they participate in a tribal event that engages
thousands or millions of other people, gathering them together and allowing them to express
feelings that normally become repressed. As most people live unfulfilling, stressful lives, it could be
argued that this sort of outlet is important and can help the average person to “let off steam” in a
way that is socially acceptable and also mentally healthy.
However, while that is a reasonable assumption, it seems that the other claim is less credible. It is
hard to see how an international sporting event would heal tensions between nations in any real
sense. There are probably examples of this happening occasionally throughout history when minor
squabbles have been put aside, but for the most part it is likely to contribute to further tensions
between nations with acrimonious histories. When events such as the World Cup occur, police are
required to keep fans apart in order to avoid violent skirmishes, proving that this just inflames
tensions. While this is true at an individual level, it is also true at a government level. Sports can
bridge some small divides but major problems will remain.
In conclusion, international sporting events are important and do have positive effects, but it is
unlikely that they could solve diplomatic problems or heal tensions between nations.
