Identifying the factors affecting the entry of athletes into the world of politics

The purpose of this study was to identify the factors affecting the entry of athletes into the world of politics. The study was conducted qualitatively with a thematic analysis approach. Participants in the interview were selected through purposive sampling. The interviewees consisted ofall experts with scientific background (professors of sports management), executive (managers and sports experts) and sports (professional athletes with a history of political activity). From the analysis of the interviews, 31 sub-categories were obtained, which were divided into 6 main categories: individual and family factors, professional backgrounds, contextual factors, organizational factors, supportive factors and media factors. These issues were summarized in the concept of "factors affecting the entry of athletes into the world of politics’. The results can be used to complete the theoretical foundations of this field. Also, the results of this research can act as a roadmap for relevant organizations and athletes, which will result in productivity in the individual and social dimensions.