Football, often revered as the world's universal language, transcends boundaries and serves as a dynamic force in international relations. Beyond its entertainment value, sports wield considerable influence in shaping diplomatic narratives and fostering cross-cultural connections. In this article, we explore how football intersects with global politics through the lens of player eligibility controversies and soft power diplomacy, spotlighting lesser-known examples and intricate stories like that of Sandy Walsh.

Player eligibility controversies

Amidst the glittering lights of professional football, player eligibility controversies often emerge, raising questions of identity and allegiance. Sandy Walsh, a Belgian-born, Dutch-raised footballer of Indonesian and Irish descent with parents born in England and Switzerland, found himself at the centre of such a debate. Having represented the Netherlands at youth level, Walsh faced huge media coverage due to his eligibility—he ultimately switched allegiances from the Netherlands to play for Indonesia. His decision sparked intense scrutiny and deliberation, reflecting the complexities of national identity and cultural loyalty in an increasingly globalised world.

Kevin Prince Boateng is another complex example. Boateng's international eligibility was affected by a special set of circumstances because he was born in Germany to a German mother and a Ghanaian father. Boateng eventually decided to play senior football for Ghana, his father's native country, despite having represented Germany at several junior levels. Unlike his brother Jerome, who elected to play for Germany instead.

Boateng's choice was not without debate, though. His decision to change allegiance sparked debate over the morality of a person representing their nation based more on family ties than on national identification.

Soft power diplomacy

The Ivory Coast national team won hearts of football fans worldwide during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, providing a prime example of soft power diplomacy in football. The Ivorian squad, also referred to as the "Elephants," brought a divided nation together with their incredible performance on the international arena despite being ripped apart by civil conflict. Indeed, through their star man Didier Drogba, who even spoke in a microphone, “Men and women of Ivory Coast, from the north, south, centre, and west, we proved today that all Ivorians can coexist and play together with a shared aim—to qualify for the World Cup. We promised you that the celebrations would unite the people—today we beg you on our knees." On cue, the players sank to their knees. The one country in Africa with so many riches must not descend into war. Please lay down your weapons and hold elections."

Beyond just being a football team, the Elephants' achievement served as a focal point for efforts to promote national harmony and peacebuilding in the nation devastated by conflict. The team's multicultural lineup, which included athletes from various nations and areas, represented how sport has the power to unite people and provide hope in the face of adversity.

In a similar vein, the FIFA World Cup has catalysed diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange on a global scale. The 2010 World Cup hosted by South Africa, for instance, provided a platform for the continent to showcase its unity and diversity to the world. Through the universal language of football, South Africa leveraged the tournament as an opportunity to promote tourism, investment, and cross-cultural understanding, leaving a lasting legacy of diplomacy and cooperation.

Football's impact on international relations is multifaceted, encompassing both controversy and conciliation. Whether through player eligibility disputes or strategic soft power initiatives, the sport has the power to shape perceptions, build bridges between nations, and foster dialogue and understanding. As the world continues to grapple with complex geopolitical challenges, football remains a symbol of unity, resilience, and shared humanity. By recognising and harnessing the potential of football as a diplomatic tool, nations can strengthen their ties, promote mutual respect, and contribute to a more peaceful and interconnected world.