Sports Business

23Feb By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Olympic Esports Games: Riyadh to host inaugural edition in 2027

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the first edition of the Olympic Esports Games will be held in 2027 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was also announced that the Road to the Olympic Esports Games will start this year. For the organisation of the Olympic Esports Games, the IOC is partnering with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC), while the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) will become a founding partner.  IOC president Thomas Bach said: “There is now a very clear roadmap to the historic first-ever Olympic Esports Games. With the Road to the Olympic Esports Games starting this year, the Games are becoming a reality. This is further evidence of the strength of the partnership between the IOC and the SOPC in many areas.”  Prince Abdulaziz...

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31Jan By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

High-profile speakers lined up for the 2025 Outside Summit in Denver

The second edition of the Outside Summit, part of the larger Outside Festival, will feature a line-up of high-profile speakers for the event taking place in Denver, Colorado, from Thursday 29 May to Sunday 1 June 2025.   Bringing together key stakeholders, career veterans, and emerging talents, the multi-day Outside Summit includes some of biggest names in the outdoor industry with speaker sessions from the likes of Reed Hastings (co-founder of Netflix and CEO of Powder Mountain), Caroline Brown (global brand president of The North Face), Albert Lin (National Geographic explorer and TV host), and Alyssa Ravasio (founder of Hipcamp). Robin Thurston, founder and CEO of event organisers Outside Interactive Inc, said: “The summit is an embodiment of our mission at Outside, and ...

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30Jan By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Sports Business

Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia set to generate AUS$1.3bn in visitor expenditure

World Rugby has unveiled the seven host cities for the 11th edition of the men’s Rugby World Cup, taking place in Australia from 1 October to 13 November 2027. With 250,000 international visitors expected over the six-week period, the tournament is projected to generate AUS$1.3 billion in direct visitor expenditure across the country and seven host cities, while inspiring a nation to embrace rugby, aiming for 200,000 participants by 2029. Selected for their vibrant culture, world-class hospitality and scenic landmarks, the Rugby World Cup 2027 host cities are:  Adelaide | Tarntanya  Brisbane | Meeanjin  Melbourne | Narrm  Newcastle | Awabakal-Worimi  Perth | Boorloo  Sydney | Gadigal  Townsville | Gurambilbarra  Perth | Boorloo will play host to the anticipa...

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19Jan By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

World Rugby and STH partner to enhance Rugby World Cup fan experiences

World Rugby has signed an exclusive agreement with Sports Travel & Hospitality (STH), a Sodexo Live! Company, to redefine the premium fan experience for the next three men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups. The ‘RWC Experiences’ programme will bring fans closer to the action than ever before, offering a wide range of ticket-inclusive packages for England 2025 (women), Australia 2027 (men) and Australia 2029 (women). In line with World Rugby’s core mission of advancing the sport’s relevance and accessibility, the deal will see redefined experiences that cater for a diverse audience in an evolving entertainment landscape. Designed to enhance the matchday experience and create unforgettable experiences, the packages will combine innovative travel and hospitality solutions with interact...

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28Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

The Great Run Company: Gen Z spurs 39% increase in running participation

The Great Run Company, owners of the world’s biggest half marathon, the Great North Run, has revealed the four core trends identified in 2024 which look set to continue into 2025. Using 2024 participant data from more than 180,000 runners across its portfolio of annual running events, the Great Run Company’s Rewind24 Report highlighted: the love of running is not waning with more and more people taking up the sport new runners are challenging themselves with the distances they take on  the boom in running is being fuelled by Gen Z the gender gap in participation continues to shrink Keep on running: the popularity of running continues at pace with a 39% increase in participation versus 2023, according to growth figures across the Great Run Series, excluding The Great Nor...

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26Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Sports Business

Record ticket sales for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025  

The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, taking place in England from 22 August to 27 September, is set to be the biggest sporting event taking place in the UK in 2025. It has already smashed records as the fastest-selling edition of the tournament ever, with more than 220,000 tickets sold to date.  With just over eight months to go until the opening match between England and the USA on 22 August, the continued strong interest in Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has led to ballots for high-demand fixtures, including England’s pool matches and the final at Twickenham Stadium. The surge in demand ensures that it will be the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup in history. Sarah Massey, managing director of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, said: "The response to Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has been remar...

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8Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel

UN Tourism: sports tourism can create a ‘lasting legacy’ for destinations

Sports tourism can “play a key role in helping tourism destinations and businesses diversify”, UN Tourism said after the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress (WSTC) in Madrid from 28-29 November 2024. To achieve this, “public and private cooperation will be essential for the future of this growing sector”.  The 3rd WSTC gathered worldwide experts and leaders of sports and tourism at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. Co-organised by UN Tourism and the Government of the Region of Madrid, with support of Visit Nayarit and Turkish Airlines, the Congress highlighted the transformative potential of sports tourism as a driver of economic growth, social development, and sustainability.  UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This Congress, as well as the whole...

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8Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Snowsport Scotland & England sign partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia

Snowsport Scotland and Snowsport England have announced a new partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia for the forthcoming winter season, which will bring the destination into focus for UK clubs, athletes and the recreational snow sports community, offering an exciting and affordable opportunity for winter holidays and training camps. The Slovak Tatra mountains are a relatively unexplored area for Brits, however they offer several world-class ski resorts, exceptional value for money and the very latest technology in lift infrastructure. The region hosts the Alpine World Cup and boasts a season that can run right through to May. Flights with WizzAir and Ryanair, from UK airports start from as little as £15 with transfer times from the nearest ai...

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2Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Novak Djokovic serves up global partnership with Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has announced a new partnership with Novak Djokovic that will see the tennis icon become the airline’s global brand ambassador and wellness advisor.  A multi-year collaboration that positions Qatar Airways as the official airline partner of Djokovic, the partnership was unveiled at the Altitude Wellness Centre at Al Maha Qatar Airways Crew Accommodation Building. Djokovic stands as one of the greatest athletes in history, with 24 grand slam titles and a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He said: "It is my great pleasure and honour to partner with Qatar Airways, a company I admire for many years not just for its impeccable service to its customers and employees, but also because it recognises the importance of wellbeing and longevity which is a passion of mine...

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2Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

The London Snow Show returns to Olympia in 2025

The London Snow Show is returning to Olympia for the first time in 15 years with its next edition set to take place from 18-19 October 2025.  Located in west London, Olympia has often been considered the “home of the snow show” and its return marks an exciting new chapter in the event’s history as its new owners, The Mountain Trade Network, build a packed programme that will include sections for destinations, brands and retailers as well as a luxury and wellness area. There will also be live music, talks and opportunities to meet some of the stars of the skiing and snowboarding world.  Built in 1886, Olympia is one of London’s oldest event spaces and is now undergoing a £1.3 billion transformation to become London’s leading premium event space with the refurbishment of both...

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24Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

World Golf Awards 2024: Portugal named world’s best golf destination

It was a big night for Portugal at the 11th annual World Golf Awards held in Madeira on 22 November. The sun-blessed European nation was named the world's best golf destination for 2024 while Terras da Comporta, on the Alentejo Coast, claimed the world’s best golf course award.  The 2024 edition of the World Golf Awards marked a global gathering of golf industry leaders, with pioneers and key figures travelling from across the world to attend. The prize-giving ceremony at Savoy Palace, marked the climax of a two-day golf itinerary sampling the best of Madeira’s golf courses. Madeira’s growing status as a golf hub was reinforced with the title for world’s best emerging golf destination. Palheiro Golf collected the world’s best panoramic clubhouse award and Club de Golfe Santo Da Serra...

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24Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Sardinia to host Synergy – The Retreat Show in 2025

The fourth edition of Synergy - The Retreat Show will take place in Sardinia, Italy, from 7-10 October 2025. A historic island known for its beautiful beaches and fascinating rock formations, Sardinia also reflects the art and culture that Italy is known for, and the 2025 Synergy show will focus on showcasing how the arts can intersect with wellness and healing.  Following previous successful shows in Ibiza (2022), Mexico (2023) and Bali (2024), Synergy has firmly cemented its place as a key event in the trade show calendar. Recognised as the only trade show servicing the wellness travel and retreat industry, Synergy brings together like minded individuals working in wellness travel, from wellness experts and practitioners to instructors and coaches, as well as travel designers and...

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13Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

On Location and NFL extend global hospitality partnership

The NFL and On Location have announced a multi-year extension of their global hospitality partnership. This extension will solidify On Location’s standing as official hospitality provider of the NFL through to 2036.    With the extension, premium experiences, hospitality and travel company On Location will continue to offer unrivaled access to all premier NFL events, providing fans with unforgettable experiences at the Super Bowl, NFL Draft, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Pro Bowl Games and Scouting Combine. Additionally, On Location’s rights to sell and market International Series Games has been expanded to include all international markets. Official packages feature premium seating, in-venue and out-of-venue hospitality, player meet and greets, unique behind-the-scenes activities and more...

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2Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel

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...

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20Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

3rd World Sports Tourism Congress to be hosted by Real Madrid in November

UN Tourism, the specialised agency for tourism within the United Nations, has announced that Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium will host the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress from 28-29 November 2024.  Jointly organised by UN Tourism and the Government of the Region of Madrid, this year’s congress will be held under the theme of “Tourism and Sport Creating a Lasting Legacy for Destinations”.  Bringing together stakeholders from across the sectors, the event in Spain’s capital city will focus on best practices in sports tourism, including its economic impact, contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and strategies for effectively promoting destinations through sports events and sponsorships. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHJaqsnmK00&t=1s ...

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13Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Visit Anaheim showcased with Anaheim Ducks away jersey sponsorship

The Anaheim Ducks and Visit Anaheim have announced a new partnership agreement, beginning with the 2024-2025 National Hockey League (NHL) season, that sees the tourism organisation’s logo feature on the team’s away jerseys.  Visit Anaheim, the official sales and marketing organisation for the Californian city, will be the first ever partner to have its logo featured on a Ducks away shirt. As the Ducks travel during the 2024-2025 season, Visit Anaheim will be showcased to hockey fans across North America. This partnership represents a commitment to promoting Anaheim as a world-class travel destination, driving continued tourism growth.  Mike Waterman, president and CEO of Visit Anaheim, said: “It’s an honour to be the first away jersey sponsor of the Anaheim Ducks, marking a sign...

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12Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Cairngorms National Park tourism brands launch winter travel campaign

More than 370 tourism organisations in the Cairngorms, Scotland, have joined forces to promote the UK's largest National Park as the ultimate winter travel destination for 2024.  Led by Cairngorms Business Partnership (CBP), the Cairngorms National Park Where Winter Comes to Life! campaign is showcasing more than 1,700 square miles of Highland winter wonderland filled with seasonal magic, including the UK's only free ranging reindeer herd at Glenmore, Balmoral Castle & Estate at Crathie, Aviemore Ice Rink, Tomintoul & Glenlivet Dark Sky Park, Dalwhinnie Distillery, Landmark Forest Adventure Park at Carrbridge, Loch Insh Outdoor Centre at Kincraig and the Highland Wildlife Park. The CBP is working with tourism businesses across the region to help extend the season and bring bu...

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12Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

IAGTO launches three global golf tourism conventions for 2025

IAGTO – the International Association of Golf Tour Operators – has announced Danang in Vietnam, Gran Canaria in Spain, and Alabama in the US as the host destinations for its three global golf tourism conventions taking place in 2025. Established in 1997, IAGTO is the global trade organisation of the golf tourism industry with more than 2,200 member companies in 92 countries, including 662 golf tour operators in 68 countries, responsible for more than 90% of all golf vacation packages sold worldwide.   The three conventions confirmed for 2025 are:  11th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) in Danang, Vietnam, from 2-4 April 2025  3rd IAGTO European Convention (IEC) in Gran Canaria, Spain, from 19-21 May  2025  16th North America Golf Tourism Conv...

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6Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

World Travel Awards 2024: world’s leading sports tourism destination nominees

World Travel Awards has announced the 20 nominees shortlisted for the World's Leading Sports Tourism Destination 2024 award – with voting is now open ahead of November’s gala ceremony.  In 2023, Qatar’s capital city Doha was the winner of the award, ending Abu Dhabi’s winning run from 2013 to 2022. Dubai (2012) and South Africa (2011) have also previously won the title.  Five nominees have also been announced for the World’s Leading Sports Academy 2024 award. The nominees are Aspire Academy in Qatar, Cascade Wellness Resort in Portugal, Forte Village Resort in Italy, Francisco Grande Hotel and Golf Resort in the USA, and La Manga Club in Spain. Voting is now open until 20 October 2024 for both categories, with the winners revealed at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala C...

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6Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Sports Business

UEFA Women’s Euro 2025: ticket sales launched at Jungfraujoch in the Swiss Alps

On Tuesday 1 October ticket sales for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 international women's football tournament were launched at a special event held at the iconic Jungfraujoch in the Bernese Alps in Switzerland. Located 3,454m above sea level, the magnificent Aletsch glacier set the stage for a match between two teams of football legends and future stars. The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 will be held from 2-27 July 2025 in eight host cities across Switzerland, including Basel (opening game and final), Bern, Geneva, Zurich, St. Gallen, Lucerne, Thun and Sion. In total, around 720,000 tickets have been made available for the tournament with sales for the general public now open via womenseuro.com/tickets. With this first ticket release, more than 250,000 tickets for all 31 matches of the tournament...

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