Dr. Abdolhamid Ahmadi, head of the Sports Governance and Policy Think Tank, emphasized in a knowledge-enhancement session

He analyzed the structure and functioning of international sports systems and highlighted the impact of global politics and power centers on sports decision-making. Ahmadi identified three main currents in sports systems: international sports organizations, national sports systems, and pure sports independent of politics, race, or religion. The last current is not dominant and has limited influence.

Ahmadi shared personal experiences and research, stating that despite claims of neutrality, international sports bodies are strongly influenced by powerful countries and their ideologies. Behind the scenes, authorities impose their political interests, a situation evident even if not explicitly documented.

He pointed to double standards and political interference in sports, mentioning that during the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite Israel's aggression in Gaza, no serious reaction came from the International Olympic Committee, while Israeli athletes participated under security protocols. This reveals that the separation of politics from sports is more rhetoric than reality.

Ahmadi also highlighted the financial influence of powerful countries and sponsors on international sports decisions, affecting hosting rights and policies. He cited examples of political discrimination and double standards against Iranian sports, including attempts by world federation leaders to politically isolate Iranian athletes, resulting in Iran’s four-year suspension.

He stressed that independent and pure sports movements are the only effective counter to politicization in sports. Having independent sports bodies, healthy media, and critical currents can help purify sports nationally and internationally, promoting justice and transparency.

Ahmadi concluded that if less influential countries unite, they can increase their impact on international sports organizations, reducing passivity and enhancing activism within the sports community globally