ANALYSIS OF THE ANTICIPATED AND POTENTIAL CONTRIBUTION OF MEGA SPORTING EVENTS IN ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS: A CASE OF THE 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP IN QATAR

Purpose: This study sought to analyse and determine which of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals will be impacted by the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Methodology: To achieve this, the study adopted an innovative approach and used ordinary linear regression as opposed to conventional logic models applied for such studies. The quantitative data collected was analysed using the SPSS version 25 for data analysis through the use of descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages as well as measures of central tendency such the mean. The target population that gave this data comprised of 100 respondends from the Qatari population, who were clustered into six categories through a multistage sampling design. The clusters included; migrant workers, Qatari nationals working with the government or the private sector, business people, experts in matters related to the SDGs under study, Government departments, and private practitioners such as lawyers. Findings:The study found that respondents anticipate and cited possible Sustainable Development Goals that will be achieved as a result of preparation and actual hosting of the FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar. These Goals were; Better Health and Wellbeing of all, Gender Equality, Sustained, Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth, Full and Productive Employment and Decent Work for all, Improved Infrastructure, Promotion of Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialisation and Fostering Innovation, Peace and Justice for all), and Partnerships as a means of achieving the SDGs. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy:The study recommends that Qatar should leverage on the advantage of being World Cup hosts to achieve these sustainable Development Goals, and even more.