ABSTRACT
One of the most consistent and prominent expectations of sports fans regarding non-sports related topics is that politics and activism should remain separate from the games they love so much. Yet, there appears to be a recent influx of athletes ignoring this hope of some fans, with the subsequent responses being quite passionate. This chapter outlines the current research on exactly how and why those responses manifest the way they do, as well as who responds in what ways. In addition, the chapter also discusses how the notion that sports and politics do not mix is inappropriate given the long relationship between the two, as well as how social media has helped amplify this relationship. Lastly, areas where the literature currently lacks and directions for future are discussed.
