Sports Tourism in India: From Stadiums to Sightseeing, Taking Centre Stage

Sports tourism is on the rise, with fans around the world eager to combine their love of sports with travel. According to industry research, the global sports tourism market is projected to reach USD 1.8 billion by 2030, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of fervent fans.

Booking.com’s Travel Trends data for 2024 reveals that 45 percent of global travelers are interested in traveling for sports, with major events like the World Cup, Paris Olympics, and Formula 1 attracting fans from all corners of the globe. In India, this trend is particularly strong, with 73 percent of travelers planning to attend international sporting events in 2024.

India is also among the top 5 Asian booker countries for the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024, according to Booking.com’s flight data. Additionally, 76 percent of Indians are willing to travel for local sports competitions and events in their home city or state, while 70 percent are interested in national events like the Indian Premier League, Pro Kabaddi, and Indian Super League.

Key motivators for Indians traveling for sports include the excitement of the game, the opportunity to connect with friends and family overseas, and the chance to meet other fans in new destinations. Santosh Kumar, country manager at Booking.com, highlighted the role of sports tourism in boosting local economies and tourism, driven by factors like easier visa access, improved connectivity, and rising disposable incomes.

For sports enthusiasts looking to enhance their travel experiences, Booking.com offers a range of travel components like rental cars, flights, attractions, and unique accommodations to create a comprehensive itinerary. With the growing popularity of sports tourism, the industry is set to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.