Episode 14 - FIFA World Cup, the Commonwealth Games and sport in Aotearoa

With Dr Mel Johnston. In this episode of Hey, Did You Know? An AUT Podcast, Dr Mel Johnston, Head of Department, Sports Leadership and Management at AUT, chats to host Mike Kilpatrick about major sporting events, the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the changing role of sport in Aotearoa New Zealand. They discuss whether the Commonwealth Games are still relevant, why they matter for athlete development, and what a future New Zealand-hosted Games could look like. Mel also talks about the politics and economics of mega-events, including FIFA’s huge revenues, dynamic ticket pricing, sport washing and the growing influence of broadcasting. The conversation also explores community sport, including rising costs, volunteer shortages, access for children and the need for clubs to adapt to changing expectations. Mel shares insights from the National Sports Club Survey, including concerns about affordability and participation. They also discuss integrity in sport, gender equality, the growth of women’s sport, and how events such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup can create momentum for participation, visibility and investment. MAIN TOPICS AND DISCUSSION Sport Leadership and Management at AUT - https://www.aut.ac.nz/study/study-options/sport-and-recreation National Sports Club Survey - https://sprinz.aut.ac.nz/areas-of-expertise/sport-leadership-and-management/national-sport-club-survey Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui - https://sportintegrity.nz/ FIFA World Cup 2026 - https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026 Commonwealth Games - https://thecgf.com/ COMMUNITY CALLS AND ACTION Rate & Review on your chosen podcast app Follow the show on Instagram: Tell us what you want to know about next:CREDITS Host – Mike KilpatrickEditors – Mike KilpatrickProducer – Mike KilpatrickExecutive Producer – Nicola HopkinsMusic – Clinton WatkinsDesign – AUT Brand Team