Turkey aims to grow sports tourism
Within the scope of efforts initiated to increase Turkey's share in the global sports tourism market, the Eastern Black Sea region is being transformed into a center for nature and extreme sports.
Following the Sports Tourism Workshop held in Rize, increasing international organizations are providing a lifeline to the regional economy, while aiming to increase Turkey's global share in the field of sports tourism.
The Effects of the Workshop and International Organizations
The Sports Tourism Workshop held in Rize in 2023 played a fundamental role in increasing international sports organizations in the city.
The events held do not remain merely as sporting activities, but also contribute to Turkey's global visibility and the branding of its destinations.
Kaçkar UTMB and Regional Economic Mobility
Thanks to international events such as the Kaçkar UTMB, full occupancy rates were reached in the accommodation facilities in Ayder.
It is planned to extend the current 100-kilometer track to 160-170 kilometers in the coming years and to increase the number of plateaus.
Eastern Black Sea Becoming a Center for Nature Sports
Rize, Trabzon, and Artvin provinces are targeted to become one of Turkey's important centers in terms of nature and extreme sports.
Events such as the World Snowmotocross Championship in Handüzü and the Turkey ATV Motorcycle Championship in the Çayeli Senoz Valley are being organized.
Specialization Model by Regions
While Istanbul hosts marathons and branded events, Antalya is utilized as a base in football, tennis, and golf branches.
A specialization model focusing on different sports branches is being strategically implemented in various regions of Turkey.
Global Market Share and Data Studies
According to United Nations World Tourism Organization data, more than 10 percent of global tourism expenditures originate from sports tourism.
Joint studies with TUIK are planned to be carried out in order to clearly determine Turkey's share in sports tourism.