The Global Sporting Arms Race An International Comparative Study on Sports Policy Factors Leading to International Sporting Success

Over the last few decades, the power struggle between nations to win medals in major international competitions has intensified. This has led to sporting organizations and governments the world over spending ever increasing sums of money on elite sports. In spite of increased funding, competition, and the homogenisation of elite sports systems, the optimum strategy for delivering international success is still unclear. This volume presents an international comparison of elite sports policies in six nations (Belgium, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom). Drawing on research involving more than 1,400 athletes, coaches, and performance directors at the highest levels, it seeks to evaluate and compare over 100 factors that lead to international sporting success.