Sport and nationality: towards thick and thin forms of citizenship

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between national belonging, acquiring citizenship, and migration. Taking high profile examples from international sports events, it seeks to unveil the complexities behind the question: who may represent the nation? The historical models of jus sanguine (blood ties) and jus soli (territorial birthright) are well-known markers and symbols of citizenship and nationality. The study proposes an ideal-type model of thick, thin, and in-between forms of citizenship. This model clarifies and provides direction to the empirical understanding of ‘citizenship as claims-making’, as recently suggested by Bloemraad [(2018). Theorising the power of citizenship as claims-making. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, 44(1), 4–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/1369183X.2018.1396108].