News
October 31, 2025
Why governments bet on long-term sports tourism partnerships
As global travel behaviour evolves, endurance athletes have emerged as a new class of high-value travellers fuelling what experts now call the “racecation” economy. This fast-growing segment blends sport, travel, and culture, reshaping visitor economies worldwide.According to Expedia Group’s 2025 Global Travel Trends Report, sports tourism accounts for nearly 10% of international tourism s ..
Governments worldwide are increasingly investing in long-term partnerships focused on sports tourism, and the reasons are becoming clearer than ever. A significant shift in global travel behaviour is underway, with endurance athletes leading the charge as a highly sought-after demographic. These individuals are driving the burgeoning "racecation" economy, a trend that seamlessly blends athletic competition, travel, and cultural immersion, significantly impacting visitor economies across the globe.
The allure of the "racecation" is simple: participate in a sporting event, often in a beautiful and exotic location, and combine it with a vacation experience. This appeal extends beyond just the athletes themselves. Friends, family, and supporters often accompany them, further amplifying the economic impact on the host region. These travelers are not simply looking for a place to sleep; they're seeking enriching experiences, cultural immersion, and opportunities to explore the local cuisine and attractions.
The growing significance of sports tourism is underscored by Expedia Group’s 2025 Global Travel Trends Report, which indicates that sports tourism accounts for almost 10% of all international tourism. This figure highlights the substantial potential for economic growth and development associated with attracting sporting events and their participants.
Governments recognize this potential and are strategically forging long-term partnerships with sporting organizations and event organizers. These partnerships often involve significant investment in infrastructure, marketing, and promotional activities aimed at attracting major sporting events. By securing these events, governments can ensure a steady stream of high-spending tourists, boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and enhancing the region's overall profile on the global stage.
The benefits extend beyond purely economic gains. Hosting international sporting events can improve a region's infrastructure, foster community pride, and promote a healthy and active lifestyle among residents. Furthermore, these events provide a platform to showcase the region's unique culture, natural beauty, and hospitality to a global audience, potentially attracting even more tourists in the long run. The "racecation" phenomenon is not just a fleeting trend; it represents a fundamental shift in how people travel and experience the world, making it a strategic area of investment for governments looking to boost their tourism sectors.
The allure of the "racecation" is simple: participate in a sporting event, often in a beautiful and exotic location, and combine it with a vacation experience. This appeal extends beyond just the athletes themselves. Friends, family, and supporters often accompany them, further amplifying the economic impact on the host region. These travelers are not simply looking for a place to sleep; they're seeking enriching experiences, cultural immersion, and opportunities to explore the local cuisine and attractions.
The growing significance of sports tourism is underscored by Expedia Group’s 2025 Global Travel Trends Report, which indicates that sports tourism accounts for almost 10% of all international tourism. This figure highlights the substantial potential for economic growth and development associated with attracting sporting events and their participants.
Governments recognize this potential and are strategically forging long-term partnerships with sporting organizations and event organizers. These partnerships often involve significant investment in infrastructure, marketing, and promotional activities aimed at attracting major sporting events. By securing these events, governments can ensure a steady stream of high-spending tourists, boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and enhancing the region's overall profile on the global stage.
The benefits extend beyond purely economic gains. Hosting international sporting events can improve a region's infrastructure, foster community pride, and promote a healthy and active lifestyle among residents. Furthermore, these events provide a platform to showcase the region's unique culture, natural beauty, and hospitality to a global audience, potentially attracting even more tourists in the long run. The "racecation" phenomenon is not just a fleeting trend; it represents a fundamental shift in how people travel and experience the world, making it a strategic area of investment for governments looking to boost their tourism sectors.
Category:
Politics