Olympic Debate Flashcards
(15 cards)
Corruption
Yes, corruption has happened in the past—like bribery in the bidding process or unfair judging—but that’s true for many global events, not just the Olympics. What matters is that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has made stronger rules and investigations to fight corruption. For example, the Salt Lake City scandal in 2002 led to big reforms in how host cities are chosen. The Olympics are not perfect, but they are getting more transparent, and we should support that progress—not end the Games because of past mistakes.
Displacement of people
It’s true that in some past Olympics, people were moved to make space for new buildings. But today, the Olympic Committee encourages using existing venues or building temporary ones to avoid displacement. For example, Paris 2024 is using 95% existing or temporary infrastructure. The goal is to make the Games more sustainable and respectful of communities.
Doping
Doping is a real problem in sports, but the Olympics are actually leading the fight against it. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was created to make sure athletes are tested fairly and often. Cheaters do get caught and punished, which shows the system works. Instead of ending the Olympics because of some rule-breakers, we should keep improving testing and support the clean athletes who compete with honesty and hard work.
Sexism
t’s true that in the past, the Olympics had more male athletes than female athletes. But that’s exactly why the Games should continue—because they are improving. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has worked hard to make the Olympics more equal. In Tokyo 2020, women made up almost 49% of the athletes, the most gender-balanced Games in history. More events are now mixed-gender, and every country was asked to send both a male and female flag bearer. The Olympics are becoming a place that pushes for gender equality, not one that ignores it.
Pollution by plane
Tourism and air travel do cause pollution, but the Olympics are taking steps to reduce that impact. Recent Games have used carbon offset programs to balance emissions from flights. Host cities also improve public transport and waste systems to handle crowds in a cleaner way. With good planning, the environmental impact of tourism can be controlled and reduced.
Environmental impact
While the Olympics do have an environmental impact, recent Games have focused on sustainability. For example, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics used recycled materials for medals and eco-friendly venues that minimized waste. Many host cities now prioritize green initiatives such as public transport and energy-efficient buildings. Additionally, Olympic infrastructure often leaves a lasting legacy of public parks and transportation systems, which benefit the environment long after the Games have ended.
Fear and securitu
While concerns about safety are understandable, the Olympics are heavily secured with advanced measures like surveillance, metal detectors, and trained personnel. Security teams work together to ensure the safety of everyone involved, and the Games are held under strict international protocols. Many past Olympic Games have been successful without major incidents, proving that with proper preparation, large events can be safe and secure for all.
High cost and economy
The Olympics provide a major economic boost to the host country. They attract millions of tourists, create thousands of jobs, and increase demand for local services. The construction of venues and infrastructure stimulates the economy, and after the Games, these investments continue to benefit the city. For example, the Montreal Olympic Stadium, built for the 1976 Olympics, has been used for various events over the years, from concerts to sports competitions, continuing to generate revenue for the city even decades later.
Violence
My opponent said the Olympics should end because some sports are violent. But the truth is, these sports are not about hurting people—they are about discipline, respect, and self-control. Combat sports like boxing, judo, and taekwondo are taught with clear rules and safety in mind. They help young people learn focus, confidence, and how to handle challenges. The goal isn’t to hurt, but to compete with skill and honor. Instead of banning these sports, the Olympics give them a safe place to be practiced and respected.
Racism
My opponent said the Olympics are unfair because many sports started in Europe. But today, athletes from all over the world shine. In the Olympic marathon, over 80% of the world’s top runners are from Kenya and Ethiopia. In basketball, countries like Nigeria are getting stronger every year. And table tennis, which started in Japan, is now dominated by China, with champions like Ma Long and Chen Meng, who have both won Olympic gold. So even if some sports began elsewhere, the Olympics now belong to everyone.
Sponsorship
Yes, the Olympics have big sponsors and ads.
But that money helps athletes get what they need like coaches, equipment, and travel.
Participating in the Olympics is very expensive, especially since many athletes can’t work while training. They focus entirely on their sport, often putting aside their studies or jobs. Most athletes don’t have enough financial support, so they rely on sponsorships
Especially for athletes from small or poor countries, sponsorships can be the only way they get to the Games.
So instead of ruining the Games, commercial money helps make them possible for everyone.
Nationalism
Nationalism is defined as “identification with one’s own nation and support for its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests of other nations.”
My opponent said that the Olympics encourage this kind of nationalism, but that’s not what happens. In the Olympics, athletes proudly represent their countries, but not at the cost of other nations.
Instead, the Olympics focus on healthy competition and mutual respect between countries. Yes, nationalism plays a role in showing national pride, but it’s about celebrating achievements together, not putting others down. The Games teach us how to support our own countries while honoring the achievements of others.
Pride and national identity
The Olympics allow countries to come together and celebrate their national pride. Athletes represent their nations, bringing a sense of unity and joy to citizens. Winning medals or simply competing
fills people with pride, reinforcing their shared culture and values. The Games strengthen national bonds and give everyone something to cheer for, regardless of the outcome. Furthermore, when athletes win and represent poor countries, it brings money to that country and makes it known. An example at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games is Robeilys Peinado, a pole vaulter from Venezuela, a developing country. She won a bronze medal in pole vaulting, marking an important milestone for her country in athletics.
Positive role models
he Olympics give us the opportunity to witness athletes who have faced personal struggles and worked tirelessly to reach the highest levels of achievement. They represent dedication and hard work, not just in sports, but in every aspect of life. Their success teaches young people to believe in themselves, overcome obstacles, and push forward despite difficulties. By showcasing these role models, the Olympics motivate everyone to strive for their best. Michael Phelps, who won 23 Olympic gold medals, showed the world that with consistent training and focus, anyone can reach their highest potential, no matter the obstacles.
Opening speech
Ladies and gentlemen,
Today, we are debating whether the Olympics should continue or not. I believe they should, because the Olympics are an amazing way to bring the world together through friendly and fair competition.
10 000 athletes from over 200 countries train for years just for the chance to compete. It doesn’t matter where they come from, how rich their country is, or what language they speak—on the Olympic stage, everyone has a chance to shine.
The Olympics let the best athletes in the world test their limits, not to fight or argue, but to push themselves, represent their countries, and show what humans can do when they work hard. It’s not about hated or war—it’s about running faster, jumping higher, and giving everything you’ve got.
