Possible US Boycott of 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing

The Olympic Games provides a global platform for athletes around the world to showcase their skills, perform on the greatest stage, and represent their country. It is an opportunity for many countries to show an alignment in their competitive spirit, despite differences in economic or political arenas.

Should the realm of the Olympics be left purely to sport and competition, or should politics play a role? A recent spokesperson for the US state department announced that the US is considering a joint diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Winter Games.

Likely, this decision is a follow-up on the sanctioning of two Chinese officials for their roles in human rights violations in the Northwest of the country (China).

While the boycott itself will would not prevent athletes from participating in the games, it urges to American public to avoid travel to and support the games, thus curbing the revenues for the Chinese Communist Party.

Competition in skiing & snowboarding have seen increased popularity with the inclusion of the slopestyle format introduced in 2014. These particular sports are viewed by a larger audience all over North America and the world.

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) is against any formal boycott. An official statement reads, (The USOPC) “oppose Games boycotts because they negatively impact athletes while not effectively addressing global issues. We believe the more effective course of action is for the governments of the world and China to engage directly on human rights and geopolitical issues.”

The US Ski and Snowboard Team released a similar statement not in favour of the potential boycott.

While this is currently only in the stages of being potential, it is becoming increasingly evident that no global stage, even sport, has immunity from the pressures and motivations of political ideals and agendas. Food for thought about the implications of our sports on the global stage.

More information can be found here:
Possible US Boycott will Not Affect Athlete Participation