With Goa fast emerging as a preferred host for major international sporting events, the state is now setting its sights on a promising new frontier in its tourism landscape – sports tourism.
Sports events not only help the tourism industry, but also inspire youth, strengthen sporting culture and build a stronger future for sports in India, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said as he recently attended the FIDE World Cup 2025 being hosted by the state.
The coastal state is increasingly being viewed as a destination for hosting major sports events due to its hospitality and infrastructure, he said.
The state is currently hosting the FIDE World Cup 2025 in North Goa. The tournament began on October 30 and will culminate on November 27. Goa also recently organised the IRONMAN 70.3 race as part of its annual sporting calendar. Apart from this, it hosted the National Games in 2023 and the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Goa Challenge the same year.
The Indian Super League (ISL) matches are also held annually at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, South Goa. Officials said Goa has a robust infrastructure in place under the leadership of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. The tourism industry is looking at these events to increase footfall and attract quality visitors to its beaches.
Sawant said Goa is honoured to host a prestigious event like the FIDE World Cup. "The government of Goa will continue to support and encourage international and national sporting events like this," he said.
State Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte said the concept of tourism needs to expand beyond beaches. "When we speak about expanding the concept, opportunities like sports tourism are always welcome," he said. Goa has already been tapping the potential in eco and heritage tourism, the minister noted.
"It is a welcome step that more international sporting events are happening in the state, which gives our hospitality industry an opportunity to host global sporting talent," he said.
Travel and Tourism Association of Goa President Jack Sukhija said events like the FIDE World Cup help tourism in a big way. Such events will significantly increase tourist footfall, he pointed out. The government should focus on further developing sports infrastructure and ensuring that existing facilities are well-maintained, he added.
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