The Ultimate Sportcations To Experience In 2026

Must-Visit Sporting Events In 2026

Travel is no longer defined by where you go, but by what you experience there. In a world hungry for experiential journeys instead of just passive sightseeing, sportcations, trips built around sporting events, and athletic experiences have evolved from a niche trend for fans into a mainstream trend reshaping how people explore the world.

The global sports tourism market reached an estimated $707.29 billion in 2025, continuing a strong upward trend from previous years. Industry research indicates that sports tourism accounts for roughly 10 per cent of total global tourism spending, and a significant share of travellers now plan trips specifically around major sporting events. 

As 2026 unfolds, the sporting calendar is packed with major events that promise to draw travellers from across the globe, and Indian travellers are particularly well positioned to take advantage, owing to increasing air connectivity, visa access and growing interest in fandom-driven travel.

One of the most anticipated events is the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA reported 500 million ticket requests during its Random Selection Draw application period, reflecting unprecedented international interest. The finals will be held at the iconic MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with matches spread across key North American cities.

Additionally, the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan–Cortina, Italy, are generating massive interest from winter sport enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Early travel trends show significant leads in searches and bookings to the Lombardy and Dolomites region, where alpine slopes, ice arenas and historic cities blend sport with seasonal adventure.

Beyond these global spectacles, other events offer rich opportunities for sportcations:

• The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, will bring thousands of athletes from across the Commonwealth together in a multi-sport festival.
• Cycling fans can chart a unique journey around the Giro d’Italia, which in 2026 will start in Bulgaria before traversing Italy’s storied roads.
• Tennis and motorsport events such as the Australian Open and the Formula 1 season, with rounds in Singapore, Monaco and Europe, continue to act as major sportcation anchors, blending short-form competition with longer holiday stays and regional exploration.

Forecasts show that the global sports tourism market is expected to continue expanding strongly into 2026 and beyond, with growth projected to remain in double digits as demand rises for immersive, multi-destination sport travel experiences.

Hotels, resorts and travel brands have also levelled up to capitalise on the growing demand. They have begun curating experiences that rival traditional luxury travel, offering premium access, personalised services and cultural experiences tied to major events.

By blending world-class sporting events with travel, culture and personal passion, sportcations are no longer just a trend on the rise in 2026; they are a force shaping the future of global travel.