5 Biggest Trends in Sports Tourism for 2025
The sports tourism landscape is set for remarkable growth and transformation in 2025.
Here are the five biggest trends driving the industry:
1. Surge in Sports Tourism Market
The global sports tourism market is experiencing explosive growth, projected to reach USD 1.8 trillion by 2030. The market is estimated to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 12.9%, with increasing sporting events and technological innovations driving this expansion.
2. Rise of Youth and Amateur Sports Travel
Hilton reports a significant surge in sports travel, particularly in youth and amateur sports segments.
From 2019 to 2024, Hilton's Sport Sales revenue tripled, with 80% driven by youth and amateur sports. This trend indicates a growing market for family and youth sports tourism.
3. Athletic Adventures and Experiential Travel
Hospitality company Accor predicts "athletic adventures" as a major trend, with 18% of travelers planning sports-related trips.
Enthusiasts are increasingly combining recreational sports with travel, participating in marathons, triathlons, and other competitive events worldwide.
4. Technology-Driven Sports Tourism
The sports tourism market is being transformed by technological advancements.
AI integration, virtual reality, and digital transformation are becoming key drivers. Innovations include AI-powered wearable devices, AR and VR experiences, and enhanced tracking technologies for athletes and fans.
New immersive sports bars like COSM have combined the excitement of live sports with state-of-the-art tech to become one of the leading innovations in sports tech in the last decade.
5. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Sports Tourism
Sustainability is taking center stage in 2025, with travelers prioritizing eco-friendly stadiums, carbon-neutral events, and green travel options. Sports tourism is increasingly focusing on environmental consciousness, with travelers seeking sustainable experiences and supporting local communities.
These trends highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of sports tourism in 2025, offering exciting opportunities for travelers, sports enthusiasts, and industry professionals alike.
