Madrid has been chosen to host the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress, which will take place on November 28-29, 2024. The event is being organized jointly by UN Tourism and the Government of the Region of Madrid and is themed “Tourism and Sport Creating a Lasting Legacy for Destinations.” Its aim is to bring together high-level stakeholders from the sports and tourism sectors to explore innovative ideas and share best practices.
The Congress will focus on key agenda topics such as the role of sports tourism in government policies, partnership models between public entities and sports organizations, and strategies for long-term planning in this booming industry. Participants will also discuss current trends in sponsorship, community engagement, and the integration of new technologies such as Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Artificial Intelligence.
The economic impact of sports tourism will be a major point of emphasis, with the sector estimated to have reached $609 billion in 2023 and projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 16% from 2024 to 2030. This sector is a vital contributor to enhancing economic diversification and social development, providing jobs and supporting businesses across various communities.
As destinations worldwide increasingly recognize the potential of sports tourism, many are investing in infrastructure and marketing strategies to attract both domestic and international visitors. The Congress will also address the alignment of tourism and sports with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and explore sustainability strategies, including Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration.
The Congress is expected to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, fostering a lasting legacy for destinations around the globe. With the growing popularity of major sporting events, it is hoped that this event will inspire innovative ideas and best practices that can be applied across the industry.
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