Sports as Part of the National Identity

Sport is not merely a hobby; it is a social and national identity that begins at home, in schools, and within society. Therefore, its promotion is fundamental to any community. On this basis, several countries have worked to transform it into an industry and a vital component of society.

For instance, in many countries, football leagues are divided into five or six tiers, as seen in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Italy, and Spain. These divisions range from amateur levels to professional ones, with each tier having its own objectives and regulations.

There is commendable and excellent work being done by the President of the Kuwait Football Association, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Yousef, who is making outstanding efforts to elevate the game. This deserves praise, even though Kuwait’s football league currently operates on only two divisions: the Premier Division and the First Division.

The game, indeed all sports, can be developed to mirror those in other countries. For example, adopting a multi-tiered, professional structure like the four divisions in Saudi Arabia would allow Kuwait’s abundant youthful talent and amateur athletes, who strive for excellence, to flourish.

In previous articles, we discussed the privatization of sports and clubs, and how such measures could promote financial self-sufficiency. This includes treating professionalism as a career rather than just a hobby, as is the case in many countries worldwide. Achieving this undoubtedly requires amending the laws and regulations governing sports across all fields, thereby enhancing Kuwait’s sporting presence on the global stage.

As previously stated, sporting identity is part of national identity. Consequently, ensuring its presence in the social environment has become a necessity. Sheikh Ahmed Al-Yousef’s statement that “sport is not merely physical competition, but a fundamental pillar that reflects societal culture and refines the national identity of youth” aligns with Kuwait’s development goals. This undoubtedly requires collective effort to realize Sheikh Ahmed Al-Yousef’s profound vision, which extends beyond the green pitch to touch upon important social and cultural dimensions, serving the society we aspire to build.