Soft power a sportswashing ve Formuli 1

This bachelor thesis examines the use of Formula 1 as a tool of soft power and sportswashing, using Italy, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as case studies. The main aim is to answer the question of how these countries shape their international image through the hosting of races. The paper is based on the theoretical framework of soft power according to Nye and the concept of sportswashing according to Fruh et al. and Merritt. The theoretical section defines the key concepts and introduces the methodology used. The empirical part consists of a qualitative comparative case study that analyses the historical context and specificities of the organisation of races in each country. Countries were compared using matching and difference methods to identify differences in their strategies. The analysis is based on primary sources, such as official documents and statements, and secondary sources, including academic studies and news outputs. The work contributes to the understanding of the role of sport mega-events in international relations.