DiverS

In the South Tyrolean context, which is characterized by the convergence of multiple identities—whether it be the coexistence of the historical German, Italian, and Ladin language groups, the increasing internationalization of society, or the growing diversity within the population in terms of migration background, origin, ethnicity, religion, language, culture, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and/or sexual orientation—we still know too little about the interaction between diversity and sports: Why does Jannik Sinner repeatedly have to defend himself as being a "real" Italian? What will happen in ice hockey with Red Bull Salzburg’s complaint against the Bolzano league after the Black Salzburg player Ali Wukovits was targeted by attacks from Bolzano players, and their fans subsequently racially insulted him with monkey chants? Why did a racist shitstorm on social media follow a promotional photo from the sporting goods manufacturer Salewa featuring a Black model, provoking a reaction from Salewa?

The South Tyrolean Sports Association has been promoting fair behavior as part of the "Fair Play Campaign" for years—emphasizing respect, consideration, and appreciation for sports opponents, colleagues, and referees. Various other sports officials in South Tyrol are increasingly calling for more tolerance and the condemnation of discrimination and racism in sports, both on the field and in the stands.

This research project addresses these current issues, examining the perception of diversity in sports in South Tyrol, the challenges associated with it, the strategies for managing it, and the opportunities for successful integration.