‘Sportwashing’ is the term used to describe the use of sport as a means of enhancing a country’s image while concealing or downplaying social problems related to human rights. A case of sportwashing is the choice of Qatar as the venue for the World Cup in 2022. Through sportwashing, the Qatari government hopes to draw the world’s attention to its economy and culture instead of its social problems.

One of the most striking events during the World Cup was during the ceremony after Argentina won the final against France. When they handed Messi the trophy, he was made to wear a traditional Arab headdress. The Bisht is a long cloak, usually made of silk or camel, with a long central opening and a button or buckle closure. It was made for Messi to wear during the ceremony ostensibly in honor of the host country’s culture and traditions. In reality, this covered Argentina’s jersey and coat of arms. The sporting side, which should be the main one, of the World Cup has taken a back seat at the most symbolic and celebratory moment of the competition. With the Bisht, the jersey of the winning national team was covered, just as they tried to do with the violations of the rights of workers and of the LGBTQ+ community during the months leading up to the World Cup and also during the sporting event.

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