Tectonic changes in the global order caused by the collapse of the Cold War bipolar structure open the place for the development of alternative approaches and theories in international relations. As a counter to the hard power of realism, Nye's coin of soft power is more than persuasion or the ability to argue, it is an attractive power of influence derived from sources of cultural and political values and foreign policy. This paper introduces sport as an instrument of the smart power of the state, inviting the unique nature of sport as a catalyst for change, integration, and inspiration in contemporary society. Since the second half of the 20th century saw a significant increase in the scientific and critical study of sports and international politics, the author examines hosting of the Olympic Games as a means of smart power of the state through the lens of international relations studies, foreign policy, and diplomacy. Since hosting a sports mega-event is considered a real political threat, states are considered to be instrumentalizing the Olympics in an effort to shape foreign policy agendas by promoting national interests and national identities. Qualitative comparative analysis of case studies outlines the hidden political strategies of hosting the Summer Olympics in Beijing, London, and Rio de Janeiro. It is assumed that some countries are using the hosting as a means of smart power, with special emphasis on soft power, in announcing their arrival on the world stage, while others are repositioning their own reputation and perception in the international community.