Abstract

Modern sport is characterized by its internationalism. The foundation of international and world federations at the end of the nineteenth century was one important factor in the spread of sporting activities. In this sense, sport forms a part of the globalization process. Additionally, the international federations of some sporting disciplines are global players communicating with other global players in the field of mass media, politics, economics etc. Apart from being a European invention, the present organization of sport is strongly influenced by European persons and interests. This fact is often mentioned, but rarely demonstrated. This report offers some data to support this view on the European influence in world sport. Verf.-Referat