Key Points
- The sports-tourism market was estimated to be worth $1.16 trillion in 2025, making up about 10% of the tourism economy.
- Hotels are offering unique experiences like VIP access to tennis matches, Formula 1 races, and other top events.
- Travelers want to do more than just catch a game; they want to get on the court with Grand Slam winners and cheer in the VIP grandstands.
The Sports-Tourism Market Heats Up
The sports-tourism market is growing rapidly, with hotels offering unique experiences like VIP access to tennis matches, Formula 1 races, and other top events. This trend is driven by travelers' desire for wellness, mental stimulation, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences on their journeys.
Hotels are capitalizing on this trend by creating exclusive experiences that allow guests to connect with their idols and fellow fans. For example, the Waldorf Astoria New York turned its Grand Ballroom into a full-size tennis court for a showcase match, while the Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, offered a stay package that included tickets to the FIFA World Cup.
This summer, the Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, hosted a stay package that included four tickets to the FIFA World Cup's Brazil-versus-Morocco match, with chauffeur service to and from the stadium in New Jersey, plus two nights in the hotel's 2,100-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite.
At a Glance
| Sports-Tourism Market Size | $1.16 trillion Estimated value in 2025 |
| Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club | London Admiralty Arch New tennis programming and venue |
| The Little Nell | Aspen Olympian-led cycling camps |
| Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay | Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience Surfing lessons with a champion |
Behind the Scenes of Hotel Sports Programming
Behind the Scenes of Hotel Sports Programming
Hotels are partnering with sports personalities and organizations to create unique experiences for guests. For example, the Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay, has partnered with the Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience to offer surfing lessons with a champion.
The sports-tourism market is not just about catching a game; it's about creating an immersive experience that allows guests to feel part of the game. Hotels are using this trend to differentiate themselves and offer a unique selling proposition to travelers.
Plan Your Next Sports-Tourism Adventure
Plan Your Next Sports-Tourism Adventure
- Research hotels that offer sports-tourism experiences, such as the Waldorf Astoria New York or the Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.
- Look for packages that include VIP access to top events, such as tennis matches or Formula 1 races.
- Consider destinations that offer a unique sports experience, such as the Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay, which offers surfing lessons with a champion.
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