Global sports tourism market to hit $2.4 trillion by 2030 – report

The global market for sports tourism was estimated at $1.1 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.4 trillion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2023 to 2030, according to the Sports Tourism – Global Strategic Business Report published by ResearchAndMarkets.com.

The growth in the sports tourism market is driven by several factors, including the rising popularity of international sports events and competitions, technological advancements in travel planning, booking platforms, and customer experience, and the increasing focus on promoting adventure sports, ecotourism, and experiential travel. The need to provide unique, engaging, and culturally enriching sports tourism experiences for diverse traveller demographics is driving the demand for sports tourism across various destinations, events, and activities.

Technological innovations in digital platforms, mobile apps, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and AI-powered travel assistants, coupled with advancements in social media marketing, influencer campaigns, and personalised itineraries, are enhancing the accessibility, convenience, and marketability of sports tourism, supporting market growth. The expansion of sports tourism applications in wellness retreats, yoga camps, corporate offsites, and eco-adventures, along with the growing emphasis on sustainable, responsible, and inclusive tourism models, is creating new opportunities for market players.

Additionally, the focus on developing sports infrastructure, stadiums, training facilities, and sports-themed travel packages for diverse markets is further propelling the growth of the sports tourism market.

Market segments lead the growth

Types of sports tourism include active sports tourism, passive sports tourism, and adventure sports tourism. Passive sports tourism, such as attending sports events, holds the largest market share due to its widespread appeal and accessibility. 

Sports types comprise football, cricket, tennis, golf, motorsports, adventure sports, and others, with football being the dominant segment due to its global popularity and numerous international tournaments. End-users include individuals, groups, corporate travellers, and families, with individuals leading the market due to their high participation rates in sports tourism activities.

Geographically, Europe and North America are the largest markets for sports tourism, driven by established sports infrastructure, iconic sports events, and tourism-friendly policies, while Asia-Pacific is expected to witness rapid growth due to increasing sports investments, cultural exchange programmes, and government support for tourism development.

Key insights from the report

• Market growth: understand the significant growth trajectory of the football (soccer) tourism segment, which is expected to reach US$1 trillion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 13.6%. The cricket tourism segment is also set to grow at 12% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional analysis: gain insights into the US market, which was valued at $294.4 billion in 2023, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 16% CAGR to reach $563.5 billion by 2030.

To find out more about the Sports Tourism – Global Strategic Business Report, see researchandmarkets.com

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