2006 Qatar Asian Games: A ‘Modernization’ Project from Above?

Qatar, Global Sport and the 2022 FIFA World Cup

“…Subsequently, we agree with Amara (2005) that global sport is being used by Qatari authorities in order to reposition the state on the world map. However, we would argue that the success of such repositioning depends highly on how effectively the state can manage and minimize its soft disempowerment.…”

“…Said 1977). Western-based orientalist stereotypes have tended to portray Arab peoples as irrational, unreasonable, lazy and lacking a sense of responsibility (Amara, 2005). Hence, successful engagement with, and leadership of, global sport is seen by Qatar as an effective mechanism for promoting better understandings of Arab and Eastern cultures.…”

Sports mega-events, soft power and soft disempowerment: international supporters’ perspectives on Qatar’s acquisition of the 2022 FIFA World Cup finals

“…Notable research in this area includes: Amara's (2005) exploration into the political discourses surrounding the 2006 Asian Games; Campbell's (2011) study on the harvesting of athletic personnel to solidify nationalism; Foley et al's (2012) investigation into the use of sport to project images of safety and familiarity; Ginesta and San Eugenio's (2013) evaluation of the significance of sport for place branding; Rolim Silva's (2014) analysis on the role of sport within historical pursuits of nation building; and finally, Brannagan and Giulianotti's (2014a;2014b) examination of the soft power intentions and consequences of Qatar's global sports strategy. In providing a more fan-centred approach, we offer the first academic account to focus on, and give voice to, the intersubjective world of devoted international match-attending football supporters who perceive themselves to be affected by the decision to award Qatar the 22FWC.…”

Untitled

“…The second most quoted sources of information were politicians. It might reflect how political leaders and/or figures expect the significance and impact of hosting the Asian Games before, during, and after the event because mega sporting events in their multiple forms could be used as a political mechanism to divert certain political and societal controversies or legitimize political consequences (Amara, 2005).…”