Global Sports Tourism Market By Product (Football/Soccer, Cricket, Motorsport, Tennis, and Other Products), By Type (Domestic and International), By Category (Active, Passive, and Nostalgia), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2023-2032

Report Overview

The Global Sports Tourism Market size is expected to be worth around USD 2,327 Billion by 2032 from USD 511.90 Billion in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 16.80% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

The sports tourism market encompasses all travel and tourism related to sports-related activities, events, and attractions. This includes both domestic and international travel for purposes such as attending or participating in sporting events, visiting museums or halls of fame, or engaging in adventure sports like skiing or surfing.

This sector of the travel industry generates substantial revenue for host cities, hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and businesses within the sports industry to expand their reach and build their brand.

Driving Factors

The Popularity of Sports and Growing Interest in Travelling Among Sports Enthusiasts.

The growing popularity of sports and the increased interest in travel among ardent followers are the main factors driving the global sports tourism market. Travelers who like sports and want to experience new places are increasingly turning to sports tourism as a means of doing so. There is a tremendous increase in sports tourism because of international sports events like the World Cup, and other world championships.

Modern sports facilities, cutting-edge infrastructure, and technology that improves visitor experiences are all contributing to the development of the sports tourism industry. Furthermore, as social media platforms and other digital technologies become more widely used, sports tourism businesses now have more ways to interact with customers and provide personalized experiences, which is helping this industry grow.

Restraining Factors

Seasonality of Many Sports Events Is The Main Restrain Because Many Sports Events Occur Seasonally or Occasionally.

One major obstacle is seasonality, as many sports events are seasonal and occur only occasionally. This can cause fluctuations in demand and supply for sports tourism services as well as difficulties managing resources and capacity.

Security concerns also pose a significant barrier, potentially impacting whether tourists choose to travel somewhere, particularly international events where terrorist acts, political unrest, and other types of violence could take place.

Growth Opportunities

A Key Opportunity Is the Potential For Economic Development and Job Creation.

One key opportunity in the sports tourism market is its potential for economic development and job creation. Sports tourism can bring numerous advantages to host cities and regions, such as increased tourism, job creation, and local spending that support local businesses and industries while driving investment in infrastructure and amenities.

Another great advantage in the market is brand recognition – hosting or sponsoring sports events are great ways to build awareness for businesses in sports-related industries while reaching new customers or cultivating loyalty among current ones.

Trending Factors

One Major Trend is The Rise of Sustainable and Responsible Tourism Practices.

One major trend is the rise of sustainable and responsible tourism practices. As travelers become more conscious of their impact on the environment and local communities, destinations and businesses in the sports tourism industry are striving to develop sustainable practices that reduce negative effects and promote positive ones. Another trend in sports tourism is the growth of niche markets.

As travelers seek more personalized and unique experiences, niche sectors such as adventure sports tourism, eco-tourism, and cultural sports tourism are becoming increasingly popular. Technology is another prominent trend in sports tourism. Mobile apps, social media networks, and online booking platforms have revolutionized how sports tourists plan and book their trips, as well as how businesses and destinations advertise their goods and services.

Product Analysis

Football or Soccer, The Most Beloved Sport Worldwide, Has a Major Impact On The Sports Tourism Industry.

Based on product, the sports tourism market is divided into football/soccer, cricket, motorsport, tennis, and other products. Football or soccer, the most beloved sport worldwide, has a major impact on the sports tourism industry.

With a 38% share of total revenue, football dominates with millions of fans traveling from all over the world to watch major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and English Premier League; these events generate significant income for host nations. Cricket is a popular sport in countries like India, Australia, Pakistan, England, and South Africa.

Major tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup and the Indian Premier League (IPL) draw an enthusiastic following and generate considerable tourism income. Motorsport also plays its part in events like Formula One, MotoGP, and World Rally Championship attracting viewers from around the globe; some events–like Indianapolis 500 or Monaco Grand Prix–becoming important tourist destinations.

Tennis is also a popular activity that features prestigious competitions like the Australian Open, US Open, and Wimbledon Championships. These occasions draw spectators from all over the globe and contribute significantly to the tourism industry. The market for sports tourism is also significantly impacted by other activities like cycling, golf, and basketball.

Type Analysis

International Tourism Is Dominant With a share of 61%.

By type, the market is segmented into domestic and international. Among that international tourism is dominant with a share of 61%. Travelers who engage in sport-related activities or watch sporting events abroad are said to be engaged in international sports tourism.

Major international sporting events like the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, or Formula One races serve as examples of such major international sporting activities. Visitors to local sporting activities like football games, basketball matches, or running competitions within their home country are considered to be engaging in domestic sports tourism.

Category Analysis

Based on category, global sports tourism is divided into active, passive, and nostalgia. Active travelers include those who actively partake in sports while on vacation; examples include adventure sports like bungee jumping, rock climbing, and skiing as well as water activities like surfing, sailing, or scuba diving.

Passive tourists watch live sporting events while away; examples include attending live matches like the Olympics, Super Bowl, or World Cup; nostalgia travelers visit sports-related destinations to relive fond memories or historical events related to sports.

Key Market Segments

Based on Product

• Football/Soccer
• Cricket
• Motorsport
• Tennis
• Others

Based on Type

• Domestic
• International

Based on Category

• Active
• Passive
• Nostalgia

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on sports tourism, with events being canceled, travel restrictions implemented and health/safety concerns leading to an abrupt decrease in demand for sporting-related trips. It has had an especially severe effect on international sports tourism as countries have shut their borders to non-essential travel and implemented quarantine requirements for incoming travelers.

The cancellation or postponement of major sports events, such as the 2020 Olympic Games, has had a devastating effect on sports tourism. Businesses and destinations that rely heavily on this industry have seen their revenues plummet dramatically and many have had no choice but to close or reduce operations.

However, the pandemic has also provided opportunities for innovation and adaptation within the sports tourism industry. Virtual and online sports events have filled in for canceled in-person events, while businesses and destinations have had to adjust to new health and safety protocols in order to safeguard their customers’ and employees’ safety.

The pandemic has also highlighted the significance of sustainable and responsible tourism practices, as travelers become more conscious about their impact on both the environment and local communities. As tourism recovers from this crisis, there may be opportunities to develop sustainable products and services that appeal to environmentally aware sports enthusiasts.

Regional Analysis

Europe Is dominant in Sports Tourism With A Market Share of 37%.

Europe is a major player in sports tourism, boasting an extensive sports heritage and offering visitors a diverse selection of popular events like football, rugby, tennis, and Formula One. The region’s total market share for sports tourism is approximately 37%; many countries host major matches while investing heavily in infrastructure to attract sports tourists.

North America is one of the most developed markets for sports tourism, driven by popular sports like football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. The region has well-developed infrastructure with modern sports facilities as well as major sporting leagues and events that contribute significantly to market development.

Asia-Pacific is another emerging market for sports tourism due to growing interest in sports and growing affluence among middle-class individuals. It boasts a large and rapidly increasing population of sports enthusiasts plus major events like the Olympics or Asian Games are helping foster the development of sports tourism infrastructure.

Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa regions are seeing an uptick in sports tourism as infrastructure and facilities continue to develop. These regions boast unique offerings like adventure sports, cultural experiences, and religious tourism that can be combined with sports tourism for a more varied and attractive experience for travelers.

Key Regions and Countries Covered in this Report

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Western Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Portugal
  • Ireland
  • Austria
  • Switzerland
  • Benelux
  • Nordic
  • Rest of Western Europe
• Eastern Europe
  • Russia
  • Poland
  • The Czech Republic
  • Greece
  • Rest of Eastern Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Colombia
  • Chile
  • Argentina
  • Costa Rica
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Algeria
  • Egypt
  • Israel
  • Kuwait
  • Nigeria
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Rest of MEA

Market Share & Key Players Analysis

The global sports tourism market is vastly competitive, with numerous players operating within it. These key players organize sports events, offer travel packages for sports fans, and promote tourism destinations around the world. When it comes to market share, BAC Sport and QuintEvents are two of the leading players. Unfortunately due to high competition in this market, it can be difficult to find out exactly how much each company shares in the market.

Market Key Players:

Listed below are some of the most prominent sports tourism industry players.

• BAC Sports
• Inspiresport
• Gullivers Sports Travel Ltd
• Dream Team Sports Tour
• Navigo Sports Tour LLC
• Allsports Travel
• Australian Sports Tours
• Premium Sport Tours
• La Vacanza Travel
• XL Sports Tours
• MATCH Hospitality
• THG Sports
• QuintEvents
• Club Europe Holidays Ltd
• Other Key Players

Recent Developments:

• In 2021: Continued focus on sustainable tourism practices, with companies adopting eco-friendly policies and practices. The use of digital technologies such as virtual reality and mobile applications enhances the fan experience and provides immersive experiences.
• In 2020: Focus on implementing new health and safety measures to adapt to the pandemic. Development of virtual experiences and online events to keep fans engaged during the pandemic.

Report Scope