Circus maximus (2015)

How did both the Olympics and the World Cup evolve from modest sporting events to exhibits of excess? Andrew Zimbalist traces the path – from the first modern Olympics in 1896 and the first World Cup in 1930 – to today’s spectacles. ‘Circus Maximus’ combines historical narrative with a straightforward analysis of the economic tensions behind recent Olympic and World Cup games – from Barcelona to Sochi, Rio de Janeiro to Beijing, and from South Africa to Brazil. With worldwide competition and only one winner, the battle among prospective hosts is fierce. Bids have become more and more extravagant, and the opportunity for corruption is omnipresent. Today, lingering allegations of corruption tarnish the 2018 Russia and 2022 Quatar World Cups. Meanwhile, cities around the globe are vying for the privilege of hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics. This book is an eye-opening account for sports fans as well as citizens and leaders. The author shows what works for host cities and countries and points the way to reform for the IOC and FIFA bid processes.