Sports tourism has always been a big business, but, in the present day, interest is bigger than ever. There are just so many more big sporting events to take in, and the travel industry has taken full advantage.
But what are the best trips for sports fans in the 2020s?
Soccer’s Biggest Spectacle
The FIFA World Cup is the biggest tournament in soccer, and the final is watched by around half of the global population. Tens of thousands of fans descend on the host nation every four years to take action. 2022 saw the competition head to Qatar, and while this was a debatable choice as host nation, the tournament itself was a success. There was some great action on the pitch, with top players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi influencing the world cup odds. In 2026, there will be three countries hosting the World Cup.
Canada, Mexico, and the United States have the honor of showcasing the tournament, and there will be even greater demand for packaged sports holidays. The next tournament will combine the best of everything: There will be world-class soccer from the greatest players in the game combined with spectacular scenery from some of the planet’s best tourist locations.
The Super Bowl
The final game of the NFL season attracts the most viewers across the United States. The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of American football, and the sport has a loyal fan base in countries around Europe and beyond. The Super Bowl rotates between stadiums around America, and many of the host cities provide a perfect backdrop for travel. The State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, is the spectacular destination for the next game in 2023. There has been talking about moving the Super Bowl to London. This may not be a popular decision among US fans, but it would increase the scope for travel to this showpiece game.
The Ryder Cup
Team golf is rare, and that’s surprising. This is an exciting format of the sport and one that attracts more interest from casual fans. More tournaments are slowly being introduced, but the biggest team competition will always be The Ryder Cup. Every two years, the best golfers from Europe and the United States battle for this prestigious trophy. The Ryder Cup is another event that provides a perfect backdrop for sports tourism. Thrilling action on the course is met with a choice of stunning locations.
In 2021, the dramatic Whistling Straits Course at Haven, Wisconsin, hosted the tournament. The Ryder Cup alternates between Europe and America, and in 2023, it will head to Italy for the first time. The Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome is the destination, and early interest suggests this could be the most popular Ryder Cup for the sports travel industry.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis
Sports travel and tradition are often perfect partners. Tennis features four Grand Slam events each year, but the most popular by far takes place in London. The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships are the oldest of the ‘big four’ and there are several traditional elements in play. You simply can’t enjoy a day at Wimbledon without the addition of champagne, strawberries and cream. This is also the only Grand Slam event where the players have to wear white. Traditional elements aside, there is thrilling tennis on show and the Wimbledon area is ideally placed for all of London’s major tourist attractions.
The Olympics
Held every four years, the summer Olympics is considered to be the pinnacle of sporting achievement. The importance of this event means that the games will be held in the most spectacular locations around the world. The United States has hosted its fair share of Olympics and the Games will return to the country when Los Angeles becomes the location for 2028. Prior to that, the beautiful city of Paris will take on hosting duties in 2024.
Don’t forget the Winter Olympics. Stunning ski resorts host all the action on the snow and ice and the future Games programme shows that the 2026 event will take place in Milan and Cortina; two exceptional Italian destinations.Each of the events mentioned above underline the criteria needed for a great sports trip. All are major tournaments and this will ensure that the action on court, on pitch or anywhere else is world class.
A packaged sporting holiday should also be backed up by stunning surroundings. Each of these events fit the profile and, while most are rotational in terms of hosting, the importance of the competition makes a top destination essential. There are many others to consider from around the sporting world. Each could provide a perfect sports holiday, but it’s certain that the biggest and the best are on this list.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
