Why TeamGB? What about NI?

[TheMoreItGoes]

I know Northern Irish athletes can choose to represent either Ireland or the UK but can anyone tell me why the athletes that do choose to represent the UK are not included in the name of the UK team?

Personally I’m not overly bothered. Team GB is a brand name more than anything. It has a nice ring to it. To be truly politically correct you’d need Team UK + Gibraltar, Jersey etc. It’s just not practical, nor is it really that bothersome to most people.

I agree @BrookGreen54 & I'm a Protestant from Belfast (so arguably in the camp that should be bothered but no one I know cares, although I do appreciate the BBC commentators mentioning NI more this year!)

Fair enough! I think I would feel aggrieved if my nation was erased from its Olympic Team’s name but I guess, whilst symbolic, it is much less important that what happens on the ground in NI.

’Team GB’ is the shorthand for ‘Team Great Britain and Northern Ireland’ which would imply that ‘Team UK’ would be more appropriate.

I agree with this. Team UK, while not perfect, is much more inclusive than Team GB.

It wouldn't be that odd a suggestion really.
Ireland is the official name of the state (which is also known as the Republic of Ireland but not as Southern Ireland please) as well as being the name of the island. So saying Team Ireland and NI is the same as saying Team ROI and NI...although it's a bit of a mouthful...also there are political sensitivities around names in NI for some still.

Anyway, the Olympic Federation of Ireland does represent the island.

In general, I think most sports are usually played all Ireland ( the island). There are some exceptions, including snooker and soccer.

Just wish this long historical shit would be over and Ireland would become one island.

Brits have been spouting their shit for far too long.

It's basically ridiculous that religion should tear such a beautiful country apart.

Religion. The scourge of humanity.

@suburberphobe
Hasn't much to do with religion really, it's just a marker.

Lots of people in NI identify as British. Half approx ( too late to look up figures sorry). A majority there don't want a United Ireland at the moment.

Quite a lot in the Republic aren't too sure either...economic reasons plus risk of destabilising a hard won peace.
Most of those who are in favour think it's too soon, or they do it they've any sense.

Exactly @DaffodilDora , if it was as simple as just reunifying it would be done already.