Sports diplomacy: the history of formation and theoretical approaches

In modern international relations, sports and related competitions have become integral elements of virtually every nation’s political framework. They serve to determine the vectors of both domestic and foreign political processes on the global stage. In current contexts, the tools of the so-called “soft power” have gained particular relevance in fostering mutually beneficial cooperation. Sports diplomacy stands out among these tools. Despite its increasing recognition, sports diplomacy remains insufficiently studied in terms of identifying the most effective methodologies for constructing international relations through sports. The article elucidates the essence and concept of sports diplomacy, analyzing diverse approaches to defining this term, and suggests its author’s interpretation. The study traces the emergence of sports diplomacy as a component of political relations, identifying pivotal events in this field and analyzing their impact on domestic and international processes within states. It highlights that sports diplomacy, amid the modern reshaping of the global political landscape, can emerge as an effective means to achieve multipolarity.