The present study aimed to examine the intersection of contemporary authoritarianism and international sport. This research was conducted using a narrative review method. Relevant studies published in English in Scopus and Google Scholar between 2005 and 2025 were searched using the keywords “authoritarianism”, “authoritarian regimes”, “sport”, “international sport” and “sports policy”. After applying the selection criteria, 44 articles were selected for the final analysis. The extracted data were analyzed using narrative synthesis and through comparison, classification and interpretation of the findings. The findings showed that authoritarian regimes use investment in sports events and infrastructure as a tool for economic diversification, enhancing international standing and gaining legitimacy. However, these strategies are often accompanied by power concentration, elite interests and corruption, and bring limited benefits to citizens. Also, the effectiveness of sports washing in improving international credibility is not uniform and the realization of its goals depends on the cooperation of international actors; in addition to strengthening soft power, these strategies can also lead to the intensification of nationalism and political polarization. According to the research findings, we conclude that sports have become a strategic tool for authoritarian regimes to enhance their international status, gain legitimacy, and exercise soft power. However, in addition to advancing political and diplomatic goals, this strategy also exacerbates challenges and criticisms related to human rights and governance; therefore, the relationship between authoritarianism and international sports is complex and multidimensional in nature, requiring critical and comprehensive analyses.