Freedom of movement + globalisation + equality act

What are the key impacts of freedom of movement?

1. Athlete mobility  

2. Globalized competition  

3. Economic impact  

4. Legal framework  

 

What is athlete mobility?

Performers can move between clubs/countries, enabling them to seek better wages, training opportunities, or specialized coaching (e.g., European footballers in the Premier League). 

What is global competition?

Facilitates regular international fixtures, tours (e.g., preseason in the USA), and major tournaments like the Olympics or UEFA Champions League 

What is the economic impact of the globalisation of sport?

It boosts the commercialization of sport, allowing teams to grow their international fanbase, sell merchandise globally, and maximize revenue 

What is the legal framework of the globalization of sport?

Often supported by international laws, such as the EU Freedom of Movement Act, which allow workers to move freely within certain regions 

 

What is the impact of freedom of movement?

• International fixtures  

• Playing abroad  

• Train (e.g. altitude training) 

What is the equality act?

• 2010  

• UK law that prohibits individuals form discrimination, harassment and victimisation in workplace, education, housing and service contexts  

• Strengthened protection for nine specific protected characteristics 

What are the protected characteristics?

1. Age  

2. Disability  

3. Gender  

4. Mariage / civil partnerships  

5. Pregnancy and maternity  

6. Race  

7. Religion / belief  

8. Sex 

9. Sexual orientation  

 

What are some positives of freedom of movement?

• Performers can seek better clubs and facilities abroad  

• Allows for global competitions  

• International fanbase + commercialism  

• Higher quality of competition  

• Increased earning potential for players  

• Facilitates sharing of training techniques and tactics  

What are some negatives of freedom of movement?

• Wealthy, elite clubs accumulate talent  

• Smaller clubs and leagues lose players 

• Increased financial pressure  

• Frequent movement of players disrupts team dynamics 

What are some positives of equality act?

• Increases inclusivity in sport  

• Protection of women's sport (segregated sport) 

• Improved safety for minority players  

• Raises awareness of discrimination issues  

• Wider, more diverse pool of talented athletes

What are some negatives of equality act?

• Debate over where transgender athletes should compete 

• Creates legal tension between promoting inclusivity and maintaining fair competition 

• Administrative and financial burden of enforcing inclusive policies  

What is globalisation?

• Creation of sport into worldwide business  

• Required media coverage  

• Require freedom of movement of participants and spectators  

What are the characteristics of globalised sports?

1. Extensive worldwide media coverage on multiple platforms

2. Freedom of movement of players

3. Regular international fixtures

4. Sport as a worldwide business/market that generates income

5. Teams and spectators can travel to compete at home and abroad