Editor’s Pick

6Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Sports Business & Industry

London Aquatics Centre to host International Swimming League 2026 All-Star Match

The 2026 International Swimming League (ISL) All-Star Match will be held at the London Aquatics Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Saturday 19 December 2026. A one-night team competition featuring some of the world’s best swimmers, the All-Star Match marks the start of the ISL’s next chapter as it plans for its full return. The match will bring the sport’s biggest names back to the pool for a single unmissable evening, staged in front of a live London crowd and a global broadcast audience. Also, the total prize pool for the All-Star Match will be the largest ever offered for a single night of competitive swimming. London was chosen as the host city for its world-class venue and its standing as one of the great international swimming cities. The London Aquatics Centre, built fo...

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22Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business & Industry

Global sports tourism market to reach $957.91 billion by 2031 – report

Valued at $680.23 billion in 2025, the global sports tourism market is projected to increase from $721.60 billion in 2026 to $957.91 billion by 2031, according to a new report issued by Research and Markets.  The market is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.09% during the 2026-2031 forecast period, supported by international sporting events, premium hospitality packages, active participation travel and expanding sports infrastructure. International sporting events strengthen travel demand A growing pipeline of international tournaments is creating sustained demand across the global sports tourism market. After co-hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the United States is preparing to host major events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the LA28 Olympic a...

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20Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Trends

Inaugural Greek Odyssey Running Festival to be held in Costa Navarino

Marathon Tours & Travel has announced the launch of a brand-new event, the Greek Odyssey Running Festival, taking place in Costa Navarino, Greece on Saturday 14 November 2026, which includes a half-marathon and 10K distance. Hosted the weekend after the Athens Marathon, the Greek Odyssey offers runners the chance to extend their time in Greece, combining two race distances with the country's rich mythology, dramatic coastline and warm late-autumn climate. Costa Navarino, on the south-west coast of the Peloponnese, sits amid landscapes steeped in ancient legend – the same rugged coastline and storied ruins, including nearby Methoni Castle and Voidokilia Beach, that have captured global imaginations again this year following the release of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, filmed ex...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Sports Business & Industry

F1 Spanish GP in Madrid to generate €467m economic impact and support 8,850 jobs

A new study on the economic impact of the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix has raised estimates of the event’s contribution to Madrid to €467 million and 8,850 jobs, a figure equivalent to 5.7% of the direct gross value added generated by the Region’s recreational activities sector.  The report, produced by PwC using real sales and investment data linked to preparations for the event, also indicates that it will generate nearly €83 million in tax revenues and social security contributions. These figures reflect the huge expectation surrounding the 2026 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, which Madrid will host from 11-13 September, and which has already resulted in the sale of more than 120,000 grandstand and hospitality tickets. Analysis of ticket purchaser data shows that more than 80,0...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Sports Business & Industry

World Golf Awards 2026 to be held at Madinaty Golf Club in Egypt

Madinaty Golf Club in Egypt has been named as the official host venue of the 13th annual World Golf Awards, taking place from 5-7 November 2026.  Marking the first World Golf Awards to take place in Africa, the Gala Ceremony will be held on the evening of 7 November, forming the climax of an exclusive golfing itinerary that will include the World Golf Awards Classic to be played on the 18-hole Championship Course (par 71, 6,900 yards), designed by the acclaimed Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course hosted the 2022 Asian Tour International Series.  The weekend will also include a welcome reception at the official accommodation partner The St. Regis New Capital, Cairo.  Owned by TMG Golf and managed by Troon, Madinaty Golf Club is a full-service, premier golf destination set w...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick

Sports travel bucket list: the first ever NFL game in Paris

Having already experienced the brilliant atmosphere of NFL games at both Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, as well as a Jets vs. Giants spectacle in New York/New Jersey, we thought we'd ticked off some of American football's top bucket-list experiences for sports travellers. Then came the 2026 NFL International Games schedule… For the first time ever, the NFL will stage a regular-season game in Paris, instantly making the French capital one of the must-visit sports travel destinations of 2026. As sports travellers constantly searching for the world's most memorable events, the inaugural NFL Paris Game has shot straight to the top of our bucket list. The league's first regular-season game in France is far more than another fixture on the calendar. It represen...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business & Industry, Venues & Stadiums

Andermatt unveils new sports centre facilities as part of long-term masterplan

Swiss mountain destination Andermatt has unveiled plans for a major new sports centre that will significantly expand its year-round sport and leisure offering for residents, second-home owners and visitors. Developed by Andermatt Swiss Alps AG, the project forms part of the destination's long-term masterplan and represents a major enhancement of the sports facilities originally proposed in 2008. The new complex will feature a wide range of indoor and outdoor sports and recreation facilities, including climbing walls, a fitness centre, yoga studios, padel courts, a 25-metre swimming pool, a family leisure pool with outdoor pool, spa and wellness facilities, an outdoor ice rink, bowling, a kids' club and an events space. A restaurant will also be incorporated into the development. T...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Events

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Run for the Rainforest’ 2026 Odzala Marathon

On 3 October 2026, Kamba Africa will offer a bucket list challenge for endurance runners and adventure seekers: the annual “Run for the Rainforest”.  Situated in the Republic of the Congo (ROC), the Run for the Rainforest event raises vital funds for African Parks to continue their protection of the world’s second largest rainforest, by allowing participants to fundraise among their network, while experiencing one of the planet’s most pristine ecosystems in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kamba Africa is the only private operator granted concessions in the ROC's Odzala-Kokoua National Park, offering guests intimate luxury lodges and adventurous rainforest expeditions.  The races and packages The day features three distinct race categories to...

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5Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Hotels & Resorts, Trends

Tennis travel: Mouratoglou Tennis Center opens at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum

Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum has unveiled the opening of the Mouratoglou Tennis Center at the resort. The inauguration was attended by Patrick Mouratoglou, founder of the globally renowned Mouratoglou brand and one of the most influential figures in professional tennis.  Following an opening ceremony, a full programme of high-energy tennis and padel matches created a vibrant atmosphere. Turkish tennis icon İpek Soylu was among the guests, with figures such as Zeynep Tuğçe Bayat, Anıl Altan, Ece Sükan and Cansel Elçin, all coming together to share in the excitement of this event. And as the sun set over the Aegean Sea, the celebrations culminated in an exclusive gala dinner.  The Mouratoglou Tennis Center selected Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum to be its sole and long-term location ...

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4May By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Guides, Trips & Experiences

Austria’s Ötztal Valley is filled with surprises to peak your interest

The Ötztal Valley connects Hannibal, James Bond and high-altitude ski challenges, peaking the interest of Ramy James Salameh who returned back to a landscape that also covets around 250 peaks over 3,000m. At the entrance to the Ötztal Valley you will find a sign pointing towards ‘AREA47’, an eye-catching name and one that could easily be mistaken for a military training base for secret agents! It is, in fact, Austria’s largest outdoor adventure park; a thrill-seekers haven maybe even heaven, most definitely a training ground for adventurists and the odd professional 'cliff diver' courtesy of a 27m high dive-board, the centre-piece of a 20,000sqm swimming lake within Austria’s. Area47 is the introduction to one of Austria’s most exhilarating valleys. One that is surrounded by about 25...

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3May By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Events

Sports travel bucket list: run the ‘world’s most remote marathon’ in St Helena in 2027

Runners and adventure travellers can now sign up for the “world’s most remote marathon”, taking place for the first time in St Helena on 28 February 2027, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in one of the most extraordinary races on Earth. Set in the heart of the South Atlantic, this marathon is far removed from the crowds and noise of city races. Instead, participants will experience a subtropical paradise with dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush green highlands and sweeping ocean views, all while testing their endurance in one of the world’s most isolated destinations. About the event Runners can choose between a full marathon (42.2km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km or 5km distance, all starting in the grounds of Plantation House, the residence of the island’s G...

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28Mar By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Trends, Trips & Experiences

How ‘darecations’ are set to become a defining sports travel trend

The era of the “fly and flop” holiday may be losing ground as a new breed of experience-led travel takes off.  According to data from sports travel insurance provider SportsCover Direct, so-called “darecations” – trips centred around adrenaline, challenge and personal achievement – are rapidly reshaping the global sports tourism landscape.  The company reports a 182% increase in travellers purchasing sports travel insurance policies over the past two years, signalling a sharp rise in demand for active, risk-involving holidays. The trend is being mirrored across the wider travel sector, with Pinterest naming “darecations” as one of its top trends for 2026, alongside a 75% surge in searches for adventure tourism.  This shift aligns with the continued expansion of spor...

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28Mar By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Trends, Trips & Experiences

Surfing, cycling, climbing: Much Better Adventures sees 200% surge in ‘skillcation’ bookings

Upskilling holidays – or ‘skillcations’ – are set to become one of 2026’s biggest travel trends with people using their annual leave to develop new skills. Adventure travel company Much Better Adventures has reported a 200% increase in bookings for certain skills-based trips over the past year, including winter mountaineering, surf schools and off-road cycling adventures, highlighting a growing appetite for more purposeful travel. A ‘skillcation’ is an emerging travel trend where holidays are centred around learning something new, from cooking and foraging to mastering hands-on outdoor skills. Blending travel with personal growth, curiosity and shared experiences, these trips offer a deeper and more rewarding alternative to traditional holidays. Sam Bruce, co-founder of Much Bette...

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26Mar By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Venues & Stadiums

Anglo American Padel Cup heads to South Florida for Ryder Cup-style return

Can Great Britain avenge the inaugural Anglo American Padel Cup defeat by Team USA, in Padel’s version of the Ryder-Cup? To find our fans will have to wait until 4-6 February 2027 for the reigniting of rivalries, which will take place on US soil in Palm Beach County, South Florida. The aptly named "Replay Club" will host the tournament’s second edition after a thrilling London debut in October 2025, when Team USA edged out GB in a down-to-the-wire finish. If you’re a padel fan, there’s a lot to be excited about. Organisers are expanding the Cup significantly: the Open, 40s, 50s and 60s categories will each add an extra pair per nation, pushing the total field to more than 100 players. That means deeper draws, more matches (players can expect to play four times over the weekend) and s...

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1Mar By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick

Sports travel bucket list: a guide to winter in the Tatra Mountains

The Tatra Mountains’ growing appeal as one of Europe’s best winter sports destinations is gaining momentum year-on-year. Inviting thrill-seekers and families to experience resorts like Tatranska Lomnica and Strbske Pleso, which are ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers, to the family-friendly slopes of Stary Smokovec rated as easy-to-moderate and all connected via the Tatra Electric Railway line and Jasna, one of central Europe’s best and largest ski resorts, catering for all levels of skier. However, this bucket-list guide to winter in the Tatra Mountains will give a different perspective of this spectacular region, one which will inspire, educate, explore and ultimately encourage you to add these life experiences to your memory banks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--0mH...

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13Feb By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business & Industry, Trends

London tops 2026 sports-tripping index ahead of Dubai and Tokyo

London has been crowned the world’s best city for sports-tripping in 2026, according to a global study by luggage storage network Stasher. The research found that nearly 30% of people have travelled – or would consider travelling – abroad for a major sporting event, reflecting the continued rise of sports tourism as a mainstream travel driver.  According to UN Tourism, sports tourism now accounts for around 10% of global tourism spending, with projections suggesting the sector could reach $1.3 trillion by 2032. Scoring 7.6 out of 10, London’s appeal lies in the sheer density of elite teams and global events across the so-called ‘big five’ sports – football, rugby union, basketball, baseball and cricket. The city is home to 20 world-class teams, including football heavyweights Arsenal...

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21Jan By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Guides, Trips & Experiences

Saint Lucia’s sporting pedigree creates sports travel legacy

Some destinations defy their size, bursting with sporting legends and adventure. Saint Lucia is one such nation and island that may be small, but its influence in sports and active-adventure is immense. Ramy James Salameh visited to explore and discover what makes this Caribbean paradise a true sports travel powerhouse. Wherever I found myself in Saint Lucia, I was never far from a vibrant billboard celebrating Julien Alfred's historic victory in the 100m sprint at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She not only brought home the island’s first ever Olympic medal but dazzled the world with a gold in the 100m and a silver in the 200m, both blue-ribbon events of the Summer Games. The impact of her achievements is as powerful as Saint Lucia’s volcanic landscape, and the seismic reverberations are ...

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10Jan By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Sports Business & Industry

Sport propels Europe’s event-driven tourism growth in 2025

Europe’s event-driven tourism sector grew by 7% in 2025, with sport emerging as a central engine of growth, driving significant economic impact for destinations and local communities across the continent. According to a comprehensive analysis by Mabrian and Data Appeal, both Almawave Group companies, the sports category accounted for the largest share of event-related tourism expenditure, highlighting professional matches and major competitions as major tourism magnets. Across the 12 European markets studied – including Spain, Belgium, Sweden, Greece, the UK, Germany, and France – sports accounted for 41.4% of all event-driven tourism spending, outpacing other event types. Markets such as Spain, Belgium, Sweden and Greece stand out for their heavy reliance on sports events, where the...

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22Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Guides, Hotels & Resorts, Trips & Experiences

A day in the sporting life of Somabay

Have you ever dreamed of experiencing life as a professional athlete? Follow in Ramy Salameh's footsteps and travel to Somabay, a premier sports tourism destination on Egypt’s Red Sea featuring world-class facilities. Imagine a day which starts by watching an ATP tour tennis tournament and ends on horseback viewing the sun melt below the Red Sea Mountains. And in-between getting to play a nine-hole Par 3 golf course, snorkel above a family of turtles gliding passed a coral reef, before slipping into the Red Sea’s only Thalasso Tonic seawater-based therapy pool to pummel your every sinew into a more relaxed state. This was a day I experienced during a stay in Somabay, one of the most beautiful peninsula’s on Egypt’s dazzling Red Sea coastline and one which continues to e...

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14Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: Loch Ness and Great Glen Way walking holiday 

Self-guided walking holiday specialist Inntravel has launched a number of new European itineraries for 2026, ranging from the wild atmosphere of Loch Ness in Scotland to the Prosecco Hills of northeastern Italy.  Among the other introductions for the year ahead are Spain’s oldest National Park, the wild Picos de Europa, and its ‘Green Coast’, and a single centre walking holiday in the whitewashed fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell on the quiet side of the Costa Brava.  In this new addition to the sports travel bucket list, we look at Inntravel’s walking holiday to the most famous glen and loch in the Scottish Highlands.  Loch Ness and the Great Glen Way  Explore both shores of Loch Ness on this self-guided holiday based at a stylish four-star hotel in Fort Augustus. The ren...

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