Global sports market to hit $3.7 trillion by 2030, say Oliver Wyman and WEF
The global sports industry reached a size of $2.3 trillion last year, according to research by Oliver Wyman and the World Economic Forum. That growth trajectory will accelerate in the years ahead, driven by professional sports, consumer participation, sporting goods, and sports tourism.
Of the total size of the sports market, approximately $2 trillion comes from four core segments: professional sports ($140 billion), consumer sports participation ($560 billion), sporting goods ($614 billion), and sports tourism ($672 billion).
An additional $300 billion is generated by related sectors, including sports media platforms, video game producers such as EA Sports, and manufacturers of sports nutrition and equipment.
According to Oliver Wyman and the World Economic Forum (WEF), the global sports sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% over the next five years, potentially reaching nearly $3.7 trillion by 2030. Looking further ahead, the sector could expand to more than $8.8 trillion by 2050.
“The sports economy is a fast-growing, multitrillion-dollar ecosystem powering global sporting mega-events, adventure tourism, sporting goods and equipment, and active lifestyles. It unlocks business opportunities, drives trade, creates jobs and enhances workforce productivity. This potential is especially significant in emerging markets, where sport serves as a catalyst for economic and social development,” stated the authors in the report.
Emerging risks
While the outlook is largely positive, the researchers warn that growth is not guaranteed. Rising physical inactivity, particularly among younger consumers, threatens participation rates and puts pressure on sportswear sales and local sports clubs.
Climate change and environmental degradation also pose significant challenges. Extreme weather events and pollution can disrupt sports events, reduce fan engagement, and strain the supply chains and operations that underpin the broader sports economy.
If these risks are not addressed, Oliver Wyman and WEF estimate that the global sports sector could see revenue losses of $517 billion by 2030 – a 14% decline – reducing its size to $3.14 trillion. By 2050, potential losses could reach $1.61 trillion, bringing the global sports economy to $7.2 trillion, roughly 18% lower than projected.
A strategic asset
Despite these risks, the sector’s potential remains enormous. Sebastian Buckup, Managing Director at WEF said: “Sports combine economic power with cultural influence in ways few other sectors can match.”
“This report highlights the critical role of public, private, and civil-sector leaders in leveraging that potential to create a new model of prosperity – one that delivers not only financial returns but also healthier societies and thriving ecosystems,” he continued.
Tony Simpson, Partner and Sports Industry Lead at Oliver Wyman, said the future of sports should not only be defined by competitiveness and growth, but also by sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience – for both people and the planet. “Our analysis can guide investment decisions, risk management, and insurance strategies across the industry,” he added.
