Sport has been watched all over the globe for generations and it’s only growing in popularity. Some of the most watched sporting events in the world include the Superbowl in America and the Champions League in Europe. In 2021, the Champions League was watched by around 275 million viewers worldwide which highlights its popularity.
However, now that COVID-19 is in the past, people are looking to travel more and watch their favourite sports around the world. This is known as sports tourism and makes for a great holiday with friends and family members.
If this sounds like something you would like to do next time you’re planning a getaway then you’ll want to know the best places to visit. To help, we’ve put together a guide on the best cities for sports fans to visit. Read on to find out more.
Liverpool
Home to the mighty Liverpool FC and their bitter rivals Everton, Merseyside is famed for its incredible connection to football which makes it a must-visit for all fans of the game.
Both teams have had their fair share of success over the years but it’s currently Liverpool taking all the glory. Whichever venue you choose be that Goodison Park or Anfield, you’re sure to be in for a day of footballing excellence.
Paris
If athletics is the sport for you then you’ll want to book your plane tickets to Paris now. In 2024, the city will host the Olympics which is sure to be a spectacle for all to enjoy. See the best gymnasts, swimmers, track & field as well as many more take centre stage and cheer your nation on.
The Olympics are televised all over the world which makes it all the more special as it’s celebrated by so many nations which only heightens the atmosphere on show.
New York
The United States of America is famed for having so many great sports available for fans. From Basketball to American Football to even Ice Hockey, there are so many sports the Americans play and New York has them all on show. Cheer on The Knicks, The Yankees and Giants and get involved in the electric atmosphere in these venues.
Buying New York Knicks tickets early can be a smart move if you want to secure good seats, especially for popular games or matchups. The Knicks have a passionate fan base, and tickets can sell out quickly, especially for games against rivals or high-profile opponents.
By purchasing tickets early, you can have a wider selection of seating options and save money compared to waiting until closer to game day when prices may rise on the secondary market. Additionally, buying early allows you to plan your trip to New York and make any necessary accommodations around the game schedule.
Mumbai
Cricket is celebrated across the globe but India may bring more passion than any other nation. That’s why you must visit their capital, Mumbai to watch the Indian Premier League. Famed for huge sixes and fast-paced bowling, there’s so much excitement in these games – even non-cricket fans will enjoy it!
This league is valued at 4.7 billion US dollars which highlights just how impressive it is and how lucrative it is.
Auckland
If you want to watch one of the most dominant teams in any sport around the world then you’ll want to watch the famous All Blacks in New Zealand. Watch them dominate other nations with hard tackling and skilful play as it rains try’s in the Eden Park stadium.
Sports tourism, the travel associated with participating in or viewing sports events, holds great significance for businesses and fans alike. Economically, it injects substantial funds into local economies as fans spend on accommodations, dining, transportation, and souvenirs, benefiting businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Additionally, it creates job opportunities across various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, transportation, and event management. Destinations often invest in infrastructure improvements to host major events, enhancing overall attractiveness for future visitors and businesses. Businesses can use sports events as a marketing tool, increasing brand visibility and attracting new customers.
For fans, sports tourism offers the chance to witness live competitions, enhancing their overall experience and fostering loyalty to the sport and associated brands. In summary, sports tourism drives economic growth, fosters community engagement, and enhances fan experiences, making it mutually beneficial for businesses and fans alike.
