Hosting international sporting events has become a widely debated issues. This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of this practice before presenting my own viewpoint, which takes into account a country’s level of development.
On the one hand, there are several advantages to organizing such events. First, they can provide a vital boost to the host country’s economy. Billions of dollars are often invested in improving infrastructure, including stadiums, hotels, roads and airports. For instance, preparation for World Cup 2018 necessitates infrastructure upgrades, contributing to Russia’s prosperity. Second, international media coverage gives the host nation a rare opportunity to be in the global spotlight. This increased visibility can enhance nation’s image and gain recognition, prestige and honour on the world stage, potentially leading to lasting economic benefits such as increased tourism and foreign investment
On the other hand, there are numerous notable disadvantages. The most significant problem is incurring huge debts. It is well-known that countries chosen to host a major sporting event must enhance and renovate a wide range of facilities such as cycling track and sky-jumping arenas. In many cases, these venues become underused after the event, resulting to wasted resources and long-term debts. For example, Rio De Janeiro continues to face crucial economic hardship following the 2016 Summer Olympics, which cost Brazil more than 20$ billion. Another disadvantage is potential environmental impact. Large-scale construction projects and the influx of visitors can strain local resources and leads to increased pollution. The 2008 Beijing Olympics, for example, resulted to substantial air and water pollution issues.
In conclusion, while hosting international sporting events can bring both economic and social benefits, it also poses serious challenges such as financial strain and environmental degradation. Therefore, governments should evaluate their country’s level of development and plan carefully to ensure that the long-term impacts are positive and sustainable