Discursive Power in the International Sports System: Analytical Framework and Chinese Strategy

The international sports system, as the cornerstone of global sports governance, is garnering increased attention for its power dynamics. However, current research on the discursive power within the international sports system faces challenges like unclear concepts, a lack of comprehensive analytical frameworks, and insufficient targeted enhancement strategies. This study first dissects the constituent elements of the concept of discursive power in the international sports system, providing a functional definition for discursive power in this context. Subsequently, based on the phased characteristics of the international sports system and drawing inspiration from the stages of public policy theory, discursive power is categorized into four forms: agenda-setting power, institutional formulation power, institutional interpretation power, and institutional revision power. The study scrutinizes the constituent elements of discursive power, namely institutional ideals(conceptual elements), institutional frameworks(fundamental elements), and institutional resources(operational elements). The amalgamation of these three elements and four forms constructs a comprehensive analytical framework for the discursive power in the international sports system. It is suggested that China should anchor its strategy on the concept of a “community of shared future for mankind” to enhance its leadership in institutional ideals.The “Chinese model” should serve as a blueprint through language code conversion to enhance the supply of institutional frameworks. Building a scientific international sports organization talent cultivation system and shaping a responsible sports power image should be fundamental means to enhance institutional transformation power, thereby achieving the elevation of the discursive power in the international sports system.