CO-SPONSORSHIP: Religion, Media, and Culture Unit and Religion, Sport, and Play Unit

“Sportswashing” and “Reputation Laundering”: Proposals that investigate the complex religious and political dynamics at stake in the rising global economies of the future. Consider the example of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 campaign, the controversies surrounding the Riyadh Comedy Festival (2025), WrestleMania 43 (2027), their hosting of the FIFA World Cup (2034), and the ongoing LIV professional golf tour. How do these national events detract from a country’s otherwise tarnished image, rehabilitating public opinion through sports worship and sacred leisure time? How is “sportswashing” used in more developed countries such as the United States? How are U.S. Americans equally culpable within these business dynamics? What role does religion play here either as a co-participant in the state’s dealings or as a source of critique? Studies of China, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, and others are also encouraged.