Sports events are a huge global phnomenon. But across the globe millions of workers are engaged behind the scenes in production of kit and souvenirs, many of whom are being exploited.

Research from the international campaign Playfair found workers in China employed by Adidas suppliers facing 80-hour weeks stitching footballs. Other workers making sports shoes, costing up to £50 a pair, were earning as little as £20 per month, well below a living wage. In another factory producing official stationery, children as young as 12 years old were being forced to work 15 hours a day.

Sports games organisers and sportswear brands must act to ensure that workers receive a living wage, are freely able to join a trade union have the benefit of job security.