Is hosting an international sporting event worth it?
It is a worn-out battleground and argument that divides many in their opinion, so we thought we’d take a spin in the positive lane and look at some of the advantages of hosting an international event.
Global Recognition
Hosting a major sporting event will undoubtedly raise the international profile of the host city. WIth worldwide TV audiences into the billions and tourists taking the opportunity to travel and support the event, there’s no doubt that these events generate substantial global recognition. It is also true that the effects are likely to be felt well into the future.
Improved Infrastructure
Hosting major sporting events also brings improved infrastructure for the host city. From developing new sporting venues and significant upgrades to existing facilities, host cities also enjoy improvements to public transport and general public works. The benefits of these advances are permanent.
Legacy Programmes
Nowadays, host cities of major sporting events must produce comprehensive legacy programmes detailing the long-term economic and social benefits for residents and the local area; this is an essential step forward. It does away with the problems apparent after the 2004 Athens Olympics, which saw few Olympic facilities being put to good use once the Games finished.
Is it Worth it?
Indeed, the benefits can be huge. The improvements in facilities, transport, and public works programmes will have long-term benefits on the health and wellbeing of local communities. The increased visitor numbers spending significant amounts of money will significantly impact the local economy. However, it’s the global exposure and the long-term effect on tourism that probably has the most significant impact. You only have to look to the example of Beijing to see what a difference successful event hosting can have on your global brand. Before the 2008 Olympics, the world viewed Beijing with suspicion due to China’s poor human rights record. The phenomenal success of the Games, however, turned that around.
Is it worth the tremendous cost? Well, probably on balance, the benefits outweigh the costs, especially over the long term. But that’s assuming that you’ve made a successful bid in the first place, of course; otherwise, it’s an entirely different story!