When you study abroad, the best way to get immersed in a culture is to watch local sports teams play. From the roar of Wembley Stadium to the excitement of an international cricket match, these events offer an unforgettable experience. International sports are a big part of a city’s identity, so it is worth making time to catch a game when you can!

The earliest known example of international sport was the ancient Olympic Games, where city-states and kingdoms of Ancient Greece would compete in a series of athletic but also combat and chariot racing events. This is believed to be the precursor of modern international competition, and it set a precedent that continues today, with sporting events sometimes being used as a form of diplomacy or as an opportunity for a temporary ceasefire.

These days, the global market for sports is estimated to be worth up to EUR350 billion and includes infrastructure construction, sporting goods, licensing and live sports events, according to a 2011 A.T. Kearney report. It is a powerful industry with a lot of clout, and it’s important to recognise the impact that it can have on people around the world.

One area where the clout of international sports can be problematic is when it comes to human rights issues. A recent case in Mali where a national basketball federation tried to cover up and obstruct the investigation into sexual abuse of women players has raised concerns about how sports organisations can encourage corruption in host countries. It can be difficult to hold international governing bodies accountable for their policies, but there are a few steps they can take to improve the situation.