Soccer is more than a game—it is a global force that shapes economies, influences politics, drives technological innovation, and unites (and divides) communities across continents. From neighborhood pitches to the world’s largest sporting stages, soccer offers a powerful lens through which to understand some of the most pressing issues of our time. The Journal of Multidisciplinary Research is excited to announce a special issue dedicated to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary scholarship on soccer.

Safeguarding in sport has emerged as a critical priority for sport psychology practice, research, and policy. However, the development and implementation of safeguarding measures are significantly influenced by cultural contexts. Research highlighting issues of contextual fit when Western-born, rights-based safeguarding frameworks are applied across diverse geo-cultural logics and norms, and across sporting environments and levels. Despite growing policy attention and the expansion of safeguarding initiatives, systematic monitoring and evaluation remain underdeveloped in many settings.

The 2027 Global Sport Business Association Conference invites participants to examine what is emerging, what is accelerating, and what must be reimagined. As sport continues to connect with entertainment, technology, tourism, health, education, and entrepreneurship, new opportunities are emerging across every level of the industry. These changes raise important questions about how sport is created, experienced, monetized, governed, and studied. Sessions may explore topics such as global sport markets, athlete entrepreneurship, sport technology, fan engagement, sponsorship and branding, sport tourism and more.