Writing Task 2: Recent Exam 22/03/2025
You have approximately 40 minutes to complete this task.
You need to write an essay addressing the topic below:
Some businesses nowadays use sports sponsorship as a form of advertisement. While some believe this benefits the sports industry, others argue it brings certain drawbacks.
Discuss both perspectives and share your own view.
Explain your viewpoint with reasons and include appropriate examples based on your knowledge or experiences.
Your essay should comprise a minimum of 250 words.
Model Answer:
In recent years, sports sponsorship has become a popular advertising strategy among businesses. While some argue that it benefits the sports industry, others believe it can have negative consequences. This essay will explore both sides of the issue before presenting a personal viewpoint.
On the one hand, sponsoring sports can bring significant advantages to the sports industry. Firstly, it provides essential financial support for teams, athletes, and sporting events. Many clubs, especially those in lower leagues, rely heavily on sponsorships to cover expenses such as equipment, training facilities, and travel costs. For example, major football clubs often receive millions in sponsorship deals, which help them attract top talent and improve performance. Secondly, sponsorship can increase the popularity of sports by making events more commercially viable and attractive to global audiences. This increased visibility can inspire youth participation and promote a healthy lifestyle.
On the other hand, critics argue that commercial sponsorship can lead to the over-commercialization of sports. In some cases, decisions may be driven more by business interests than athletic merit. For instance, companies may pressure organizers to schedule matches in ways that prioritize television ratings over athletes’ well-being. Moreover, not all sponsors align with the values of sport. For example, when alcohol or fast food brands sponsor major events, it sends mixed messages, especially to young fans.
In my opinion, although there are potential drawbacks, the benefits of sports sponsorship outweigh the negatives. When managed responsibly, sponsorship can bring much-needed funding and global exposure to sports, fostering development and engagement at all levels. Strict regulations can be introduced to ensure sponsors align with the values of fair play and health.
In conclusion, while sports sponsorship may have some disadvantages, its overall impact on the sports industry is largely positive, provided it is carefully monitored and ethically managed.
Total 299 words
