Protests, boycotts, disqualifications of athletes for political reasons, and even acts of terrorism have all occurred in previous Olympics.
What is it that attracts so much attention to this sporting event compared to others of its kind, such as the FIFA World Cup, the World Athletics Championships or the Super Bowl?
With the global situation looking more unstable than it has in decades, it is almost certain that political issues will find a place in this year's Olympics as well, if they haven't already.
