Thrilling Start: The Skyrocketing Profits of Sports Travel and Tourism Industry
The world of sports tourism is experiencing a significant boom, with an increasing number of travellers seeking immersive experiences at major international sporting events. According to the UN's World Tourism Organisation, sport is one of the fastest-growing industry sectors.
This trend is evident in the growing popularity of tennis, pickleball, and padel on holiday, as well as the investment in premium golf courses like Lofoten Links in Norway's remote Lofoten Islands, which has received investment from The Cabot Collection.
The global sports hospitality market, a major component of sports tourism, is projected to soar from US$15.23 billion in 2024 to a staggering US$74.32 billion by 2036, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.12%.
Key drivers of this growth include the rising demand for luxury experiences, globalization of sports and expanding event calendars, technological advancements, economic resilience, and the increasing integration of wellness and sports travel.
With the upcoming mega events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics, the market is expected to continue its strong growth. Golf tourism is expanding, with premium golf developments like the Cabot Collection attracting affluent travellers looking for exclusive golf experiences.
Events like Formula 1 are seeing increasing demand for hospitality experiences, combining sport, luxury travel, and technology innovations to captivate a global audience. Sports tourism will increasingly be a key economic driver for destinations worldwide.
Motorsport enthusiasts can book a place in the Paddock Club, which includes a pit-lane walkabout, VIP access, gourmet lunch, and up-close seats for the action. During the Monaco race in May, the Explora II cruise ship will dock in Port Hercule, near the track.
Emma Love, a London-based journalist with a career history at Tatler magazine and currently writing for House & Garden, Country & Townhouse, Centurion, The Times, The Telegraph, and other publications, covers this exciting world of sports tourism.
In summary, sports tourism, encompassing global events like the UEFA Champions League Final, Winter Olympics, Formula 1, and luxury golf investments, is on a robust growth trajectory, driven by luxury demand, globalization, and technology, with a very strong outlook through 2036 and beyond.
This trend in the sports tourism industry is not just limited to major international sporting events, but also extends to travelers seeking immersive experiences in sports like tennis, pickleball, and padel during their holidays. As the global sports hospitality market grows, there's an increasing focus on luxury experiences, exemplified by premium golf courses such as Lofoten Links and golf developments like the Cabot Collection.
