Meanings of the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games for Brazilian Olympic athletes

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the postponement of the 2020 Olympic Games (OG) in Tokyo, producing numerous effects on participating athletes, especially those from developing countries. The objective of this study was to investigate and understand the impact of the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 OG, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, on the Brazilian Olympic athletes. The epistemology followed social constructionism. The methodology included semi-directed interviews with 11 Brazilian athletes who had qualified for the OG in seven different sports. Following the application of discourse analysis, three thematic categories were identified: a) inequalities and their social impact, b) the importance of supportive relationships, and c) athletes’ work challenges. Our findings initially indicate differences regarding social conditions faced by athletes from countries of the global north compared to those from the south, as is the case of Brazil. Secondly, we could verify the importance of multidisciplinary teams, training colleagues and family members for the preparation and development of the athlete. Thirdly, it was possible to identify an intensification of athletes’ training routines under inappropriate work environment. In conclusion, the study proposes a dialogue with the community involved in world Olympic sports, to problematize inequities that affect athletes from developing countries.