Book excerpt: In the 21st century, sport is big business – big international business. The huge investments made in the World Cup and the Olympics show how important sport is to national economic activity, economic well-being, international trade and diplomacy and national pride. This book guides readers through the economics of sport and the battle of the football codes in Australia between Aussie Rules, Rugby Union, Rugby League and Soccer. The book is a must-read for the Australian sports fanatic, or anyone interested in business strategy in the 21st century. For the international observer, it provides a unique insight into the Australian psyche.