The Reality Beyond the Tracks: F1 in Bahrain

Written by Jessica Hua (W’26); Edited by Aaditi Bhandari (W’27)

Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, delivers around 20 races worldwide each year. Fans around the world gather to watch in their free time; in a world full of turmoil, wholesome fun built on the concept of fair play makes competitive sports an appealing source of entertainment. It is thrilling to enter a world where passion, competition, and athleticism take center stage. However, there exists a darker, more insidious phenomenon that often goes unnoticed - sportwashing.

Sportwashing

Sportwashing, the practice of using sports events and franchises to divert attention from controversial political actions or human right abuses, has become an increasingly prevalent tactic employed by governments and organizations around the globe. Sportwashing allows authoritarian governments to use sport to develop nationalism and portray their country in a positive light globally.

Many F1 fans remain unaware of the concept of sportwashing. Sport reporters and broadcasters should implement the topic of sportwashing into their coverage and commentary of events they report on. It is sport networks' ethical duty to shed light on this issue, to scrutinize the games beyond the scoreboards, and to engage in a more nuanced and responsible coverage that acknowledges the complex realities behind the glamor of major sporting events.

 The sport of Formula 1 is very susceptible to sportwashing as it is undeniably one of the most international sports. The Grand Prix in Bahrain provides a platform for the government to showcase the country as a modern and progressive nation. The opulent racing event, with its high-profile participants and global audience, serves to divert attention from the political unrest, suppression of political dissent, and appalling human rights issues within the country.

Bahrain Protests

In 2011, F1 cancelled their race in Bahrain as during the Arab Spring, there were widespread protests calling for political reform and greater freedoms. The government responded with a crackdown, leading to many arrests, torture allegations, and 70 reported deaths.

In 2012, the Bahrain government planned to continue to host the race. The opposition recognized the race was hosted by the government to promote Bahrain’s image, so they decided to use the race to publicize their own stance.

Very few reporters were allowed into Bahrain, however the government granted visas to sport journalists who came to cover the race. While sport reporters generally do not cover political stories, members of the opposition took them to areas where there were protests days before the race.

During the protest, a protestor was killed by security, and reports and images quickly went global. British politicians, human right groups, and other organizations around the world called to cancel the race in Bahrain.

While some argue that coverage of sportwashing is unsuccessful in creating change as F1 geared up to kick off the 2024 season in Bahrain, the global attention drawn to the issue serves as a crucial catalyst for raising awareness and promoting discourse surrounding the ethical implications of hosting major sporting events in nations with controversial human rights records.

The Role of Sport Networks

In countries where very few reporters are allowed visas, it is incumbent upon sport networks to broaden their scope beyond the game itself and acknowledge the political and social contexts in which these events unfold. While the primary focus remains on the athleticism and skill of the players, the broader narrative should encompass the ethical implications of hosting mega-events in regions with questionable human rights records. By integrating the topic of sportwashing into our coverage and commentary, they can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the forces at play in the world of sports.

This shift in perspective is not intended to detract from the enjoyment of sports but rather to enhance our appreciation by fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness. By addressing sportwashing, sport reporters can encourage meaningful conversations about the ethical considerations of our favorite pastimes, prompting athletes, fans, and governing bodies to reflect on the values they uphold.

Moreover, incorporating the topic of sportwashing sends a powerful message to those who seek to exploit the universality of sports for their own agenda. It signals that the sports community values transparency, human rights, and accountability above all else.

By embracing a more critical and holistic approach to coverage, sport networks can ensure that the games we love are not ruined by sportwashing. It is time to go beyond the tracks and expose the truth behind the glittering façade, so that we can champion a sports culture that values integrity, transparency, and human dignity above all.