The journey is no longer a tendency, it has become a lifeline for many people. And if you are not traveling yourself, there is a possibility that you are scrolling through someone else’s feed. Is one of the hottest trends in the journey right now? Sports Tourism.

Indian fans are no longer satisfied with cheering from their couch, they are flying and root for their players from stand, IRL. And it is no longer about cricket. The passion overtakes the Racruck and Green Court beyond 22 yards.

From single trips, migration, and workplaces to luxury stay, people are now ready to spend more on travel – this is a quick gateway or long luxury escape.

Sofa for Stadiums: Emergence of Sports Tourism

The ongoing Formula 1 season and upcoming Wimbledon 2025 have recently increased visa query.

According to data from the Visa Processing firm, Atlice, Wimbledon 2025, the prescribed in London from 30 June to 13 July, the UK Visa Application Query has increased by 28 percent.

Meanwhile, Formula 1 is more than modifying engines: it is running tourism and visa query for countries such as Monaco, Italy, Japan and UK. Spread over countries, data reflects an increase of 18 to 30 percent as people plan a journey program not only for the race but also for immersive experiences.

Beyond stadiums and courts

While the game is fueling more tourism, it is no longer limited to the day of the incident. Most fans are now eager to expand, find, relax and experience their trips. According to a survey by the Excived Group, a US-based travel company, 3 out of 3 travelers have planned a detailed journey program which includes destinations beyond the host city.

This indicates a major change in tourists’ behavior pattern. “What we see in visa search trends has become one of the most impressive forces shaping global dynamics. It is no longer about participating in only one match or race, it is some big, part of something big, some unforgettable,” says the founder and CEO of the seductive Nahata.

While the trend is now gaining severe speed, it actually started a little earlier. Ahead of Paris Olympics in 2024, visa applications from India increased by 60 percent, as well as an increase of 50 percent in sports tourism and 45 percent in group visa applications.

Even during the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, the total booking for the city increased by about 45 percent.

Sports tourism is not just its moment, it is throughout the season. According to the survey, “It represents 10 percent of global tourism expenses and is estimated to reach $ 1.3 trillion by 2032. The 2026 FIFA World Cup and with the upcoming Olympics in Italy and Los Angeles, the speed is only lifting.”