Sports Tourism Market Research Report – Segmentation By Type (Domestic, International) By Product (Football/Soccer, Cricket, Motorsport, Tennis, Others) By Application (Passive Sports Tourism, Active Sports Tourism, Others) and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa) – Industry Forecast 2024 to 2029

Updated On: January, 2024
ID: 14483
Pages: 150

Sports Tourism Market Size (2023-2028):

The Global Sports Tourism Market was worth US$ 2025.41 million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach a valuation of US$ 3117.92 million by 2028 and is predicted to register a CAGR of 7.8% during 2023-2028.

Market Drivers:

World-class sports infrastructure is a big driver in the Sports Tourism Market. Many countries spend lots of money building amazing stadiums, arenas, and training centres. These impressive venues don't just host major sporting events but also draw sports-loving tourists. Growing investment in developing the sports infrastructure from government authorities is elevating the demand of the market.

Hosting major sporting events, such as the Olympics or FIFA World Cup, serves as a significant driver for the sports tourism market. These events pull fans and participants from all around the world, which leads to increased tourism in the host cities and countries. Fans came to witness their favourite sports and athletes in action, creating a surge in travel and tourism. As a result, The excitement and spectacle of these events make them a driving force behind sports tourism's growth.

Adventure sports and outdoor activities are driving the Sports Tourism Market. People love the excitement of activities like skiing, surfing, trekking, and scuba diving. They seek destinations famous for these adventures, where they can enjoy thrill and natural beauty. Places like Whistler in Canada, Bali in Indonesia, and Queenstown in New Zealand have become magnets for adventure enthusiasts. Travellers are attracted to these spots by looking for thrilling experiences and unforgettable moments. As a result, this market trend fuels the sports tourism market as travellers chase adrenaline rushes in stunning natural settings, also looking for thrilling experiences.

Market Restraints:

The Sports Tourism Market faces challenges due to the high cost of attending major sports events, which includes tickets, places to stay, and travel expenses. This can make it too expensive for some sports fans to participate. Also, certain sports destinations might not be easy to reach, making it tough for people with physical disabilities to enjoy the sports action. As a result, These obstacles create barriers, preventing some folks from taking part in sports tourism activities and limiting the market's inclusivity and reach.

Market Key Developments:

  • In 2022, Expedia Group introduced flexible booking policies to accommodate changes in travel plans, promoting sports tourism with greater confidence.
  • In 2023, The Emirates Group focused on sports sponsorships and collaborations with sporting events to enhance its global sports tourism appeal.
  • In 2023, DHL Express extended its sports logistics services to provide support for sports events, ensuring that equipment and materials reached destinations efficiently.

SPORTS TOURISM MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

REPORT METRIC

DETAILS

Market Size Available

2022 – 2028

Base Year

2022

Forecast Period

2023 - 2028

CAGR

7.8%

Segments Covered

By Type, Product, Application, and Region.

 

Various Analyses Covered

Global, Regional and Country Level Analysis, Segment-Level Analysis, DROC, PESTLE Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Analyst Overview of Investment Opportunities

Regions Covered

North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

 

Market Leaders Profiled

TUI Group, Thomas Cook Group, Adidas Group, The Emirates Group, Expedia Group, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc., Marriott International, Inc., DHL Express, American Express Global Business Travel, Cox & Kings Ltd., and Others.

Market Segmentation:

Sports Tourism Market - By Type:

  • Domestic
  • International 

Based on Type, Domestic sports tourism is dominating the market and held a major share of 52% in the year 2022. It primarily focused on local events and regional competitions. This sector involves individuals travelling within their own country to participate in or witness sporting events. Also, it plays a vital role in promoting regional sports, grassroots competitions, and community engagement. Domestic sports tourism thrives through events like college sports tournaments, regional marathons, and local football matches, where residents and sports enthusiasts come together to support their teams. This fosters a sense of local pride and community spirit, contributing to grassroots sports development.

In contrast, international sports tourism is estimated to showcase the highest CAGR during the forecast period. It involves individuals crossing borders to participate in or witness sporting events, explore new cultures, and experience sports in different settings. Also, international sporting events, like the Olympics, FIFA World Cup, and global tennis and golf tournaments, attract a large number of international tourists. 

Sports Tourism Market - By Product:

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

Based on Product Type, Motorsport tourism is a dominant segment in the market and is expected to rise at a promising CAGR of 15.4% during the forecast period., particularly among enthusiasts who travel to witness high-octane events like Formula 1 races, MotoGP, and the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours. Motorsport tourism offers a wide, unique blend of the thrill of high-speed racing and the opportunity to explore different global destinations that host these events. Fans from all around the world connect on race circuits, adding to the electrifying atmosphere and creating unforgettable experiences while indulging in their passion for motorsports.

Football (soccer) is estimated to showcase a healthy CAGR during the forecast period due to its worldwide popularity. With a high global fan base, football is the most widely followed and played sport. The universal appeal of football makes it a dominant force in sports tourism, as fans seek to immerse themselves in the excitement and vibrant atmosphere of iconic stadiums.

Cricket is predicted to witness a healthy CAGR during the forecast period., especially in countries where cricket holds a significant cultural and sporting significance. Nations like India, Australia, England, and Pakistan have fervent cricket fan bases, and cricket tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international test matches attract travelers from around the world.

Sports Tourism Market -By Application:

  • Passive Sports Tourism
  • Active Sports Tourism
  • Others 

Based on Application Type, the Passive sports tourism segment holds the major share of 55% of the Sports Tourism Market due to its offering a distinct experience centred on watching sports events rather than participating in them. This includes attending major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, Olympics, or other spectator-focused events. Passive sports tourism is popular for its entertainment value, cultural experiences, and the opportunity to witness top athletes in action. 

Active Sports Tourism is expected to grow at a moderate CAGR during the forecast period because it involves travellers actively participating in sports or recreational activities. This appeals to individuals seeking immersive experiences and physical engagement, aligning with the growing interest in fitness and wellness tourism. The diverse range of activities offered makes it inclusive and appealing to a broader audience.

Market Regional Analysis:

The Global Sports Tourism Market Report includes the segmentation of regions:

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia-pacific
  • Middle-east and Africa
  • Latin America

Based on Region Type, Europe dominates the sports tourism market with a CAGR of 36.2% during the forecast period due to its rich sporting heritage and a plethora of globally acclaimed sports like football, rugby, tennis, and Formula 1 racing. The continent hosts prestigious events like Wimbledon Championships, Tour de France, and UEFA Champions League, attracting a vast international audience. Europe's compact geography makes it convenient for travellers to access multiple countries and events, further enhancing its appeal as a sports tourism destination.

North America holds the second most dominant position in sports tourism. The region is home to iconic events, including the Super Bowl, the World Series, and the NBA Finals, which draw sports enthusiasts from the United States and beyond. These high-profile competitions create a significant pull for international travellers, contributing to North America's prominent position in the sports tourism market.

Asia Pacific is anticipated to show a potential growth rate during the forecast period owing to the increasing popularity of sports such as cricket, football, and tennis. India, Australia, and Japan are hosting major sports events that are attracting the sports tourism market in the Asia Pacific region.

The Middle East and Africa regions are gradually gaining traction in sports tourism as they host international events like the Dubai World Cup in horse racing and the Qatar World Cup in football. These events, along with the appeal of unique cultural experiences, are contributing to the region's growing presence in the market.

Latin America is predicted to witness notable growth during the forecast period, especially in countries like Brazil and Argentina, shining through major tournaments and creating world-class players. The region's lively culture and deep-seated love for the sport beckon fans and travellers from around the world to experience the electrifying atmosphere of football matches in this passionate part of the globe.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Sports Tourism Market:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the Sports Tourism Market. Initially, travel restrictions, event cancellations, and concerns about large gatherings led to a sharp decline in sports tourism. Major sporting events were postponed or held without spectators, affecting tourism revenues. As the pandemic continued, sports tourism businesses adapted by offering virtual sports experiences, such as online tournaments and e-sports events. This digital transformation helped maintain engagement and generate some revenue during a challenging period. Also, the sports tourism market is expected to recover, but the industry is likely to undergo changes. Travellers may prioritize smaller outdoor events and explore less crowded destinations. Additionally, sports tourism companies may continue to invest in virtual experiences to cater to the evolving preferences and behaviours of sports enthusiasts.

Market Key Players:

  1. TUI Group
  2. Thomas Cook Group
  3. Adidas Group
  4. The Emirates Group
  5. Expedia Group
  6. Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc.
  7. Marriott International, Inc.
  8. DHL Express
  9. American Express Global Business Travel
  10. Cox & Kings Ltd.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the CAGR of the Sports Tourism Market from 2023-2028?

The Sports Tourism Market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period.

2. Which is the dominating region for the Sports Tourism Market share?

North America is currently dominating the Sports Tourism Market share by region.

3. Which Application type is dominating the market for the Sports Tourism Market?

Active Sports Tourism dominates the Sports Tourism Market by Application Type.

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