Major sporting events are a big test for expats around the globe. As the world gears up to watch their countries’ top athletes, expats are left in the wilderness, unsure where their affiliation lies. Is it with their country of birth or their country of residence? It’s a trivial matter, but it shows what stage of his or her life an expat is at.

The Olympics have been on for about a week now and the regardless of what you think about China, the show has been spectacular. From the extravagant opening ceremony through to the dominance of the US basketball team and the menacing force of Usain Bolt, there’s so much to spark an interest in even the most casual of viewer.

I’ve found it hard to get excited about the British athletes, which is in stark contrast to Games of the past. I think it was in Barcelona ’92 when we had Linford Christie, Sally Gunnell, Roger Black, Chris Boardman and Kriss Akabusi flying the GB flag. We don’t even have characters such as Steve Backley or Jonathan Edwards any more. Those were exciting athletes. Fast forward 16 years and the bottom has fallen out of British athletics.

I’m more excited watching the Thai and Chinese athletes. I enjoy watching the Chinese athletes because it’s great to see sport transcend the problems that nations have with each other. I like to see the Chinese do well because the athletes are not the root of China’s problems.

As for the Thais, they’re not exactly my countrymen, but I’m more interested in them than the Brits. It’s a shame because patriotism is one of the only elements of British society that can bring people together.

Who are you cheering for in the Beijing Olympics?