Linguistic diversity plays a fundamental role in today’s major international sporting events such as the Olympic Games, the Euro Cup, and the Tour de France. These events not only celebrate excellence in sport but also bring together a mix of cultures and languages, reflecting the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of the world.
Language is more than just a means of communication; it influences the shared experience between athletes, spectators, and host countries. Exploring the diversity of languages at these events offers a fascinating perspective on the intersection of sport, culture, and both national and international identity. These events are broadcast worldwide, adapting content to multiple languages so all viewers can enjoy and understand what is happening.
The Importance of Language
The Olympic Games, one of the most followed events worldwide, will be held this year in Paris, starting on July 26 and lasting 19 days. According to the International Olympic Committee, athletes from 206 different countries will compete in 2024, showcasing a broad cultural and linguistic diversity. Spain will compete in 28 sports with 382 athletes, 192 women, and 190 men.
While many languages will be spoken at this event, the official languages will be English and French. This is because the modern Olympic Games were revitalized in 1896 by Pierre de Coubertin, a French aristocrat. At that time, French was the diplomatic language, and the IOC headquarters was in Switzerland, where French is also spoken. English became a co-official language in 1972 due to its international importance.
Translators are essential at the Olympics, as they enable athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators from around the world to communicate without language barriers. Additionally, technological language support, such as simultaneous interpretation devices, complements the work of translators and helps provide a more inclusive and enriching experience for all participants.
Globalization has brought great cultural and linguistic wealth, though sometimes people face language barriers in communication. In response to the need for global communication, companies like Traductores VA have specialized in AI-powered translation devices to eliminate language barriers in various contexts.
For example, Traductores VA has collaborated with NGOs through donations to facilitate communication between volunteers and refugees, as well as with public institutions to streamline processes with foreign nationals. Additionally, these devices offer significant benefits for tourists, allowing them to enjoy their trips abroad more fully. They also facilitate communication for people with hearing disabilities in other languages, promoting more inclusive and global tourism.
The V4 Translator from Traductores VA allows communication with up to 90% of the world's population thanks to its support in 108 languages. This portable device includes a SIM card that provides free lifetime internet in over 200 countries, allowing its use without needing WiFi. Additionally, it uses 10 translation engines to achieve fast and accurate translations.
The need to overcome language barriers has led to the development of innovative solutions such as AI-powered translation devices. These benefit not only sporting events but also humanitarian situations and international travel, facilitating interaction and understanding among people from all over the world.
