Sportswashing
Using sports to improve a bad reputation
Example
China's frequent bids to host the Olympics are a prime example of how powerful they think sportswashing can be
Sportswashing definition by Slang.net
This page explains what the slang term "Sportswashing" means. The definition, example, and related terms listed above have been written and compiled by the Slang.net team.
We are constantly updating our database with new slang terms, acronyms, and abbreviations. If you would like to suggest a term or an update to an existing one, please let us know!
Take the pop culture acronym challenge
When a country, group, or individual uses sports to distract from their reputation of wrongdoing, that's sportswashing. Sportswashers hope people's love of sports will transfer to their reputation, removing at least some negative associations.
For example, Saudi Arabia, whose human rights reputation is less than stellar, frequently attempts to sportswash by sponsoring and hosting golf events. In 2021, Saudi Arabia even went so far as to launch its own golf series, LIV Golf, to compete with the PGA Tour. This series drew famous golfers like Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson - and if they're willing to play in a Saudi-backed series, surely the country can't be so bad?
Other examples of sportswashing include: