Final answer:
Competitive sport in Rome was not free of commercial influence; instead, professional athletes could earn through sports, and the state or elites would fund events, like those in the Colosseum, for entertainment and to showcase their wealth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that competitive sport in Rome remained essentially free of commercial influence throughout the time of the empire is false. Over time, the nature of sporting events in Rome significantly evolved, with professional athletes coming to dominate and earning a living from prizes and rewards.
The games, such as the gladiatorial contests and chariot racing, were part of the 'bread and circus' policy, which were used as a means to keep the populace content and avoid unrest. These events, which were served as significant forms of entertainment, were funded by the state or wealthy elite to showcase their wealth, demonstrating a clear commercial influence.
Moreover, gladiatorial contests and other competitions were held in venues like the Colosseum, which played a role similar to modern sports stadiums, serving not only as entertainment but also as a way to foster a sense of identity among Romans.
The rise of professional athletes also indicates that sports had an economic dimension, as well as a cultural and social impact on Roman society. Thus, these events were far from being free of commercial influence during the Roman Empire.