Social capital building through mega-sporting events: Did the Qatar 2022 World Cup foster bonding, bridging, and linking social capital?

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of the Qatar 2022 World Cup in promoting bonding, bridging, and linking social capital within the host community and beyond. A total of 403 respondents completed a researcher-made questionnaire 12 months after the event. One sample t-test indicated that all three forms of social capital exceeded the test value significantly (P < 0.01). Residents of Qatar scored significantly higher in bridging and linking social capital compared to participants from other countries (P < 0.01). Arab respondents exhibited greater levels of linking social capital compared to non-Arab Muslims, whereas non-Arab Muslims demonstrated higher levels than respondents from other nationalities (4.444 > 3.852 > 3.349, P < 0.01). Residing in the host community and reaping benefits from an event can lead to a more positive perception of the event's social capital. Facilitating the participation of individuals with diverse backgrounds in sporting events can help to develop social capital across borders.