Italy’s Strategic Move in Sports Tourism
On September 3, 2025, Italy took another decisive step toward strengthening its role as a global hub for sports tourism. A protocol of intent was signed by the Ministry of Tourism, the Minister for Sport and Youth, and the Italian Golf Federation (FIG). The agreement, endorsed by Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, and FIG President Cristiano Cerchiai, focuses on promoting golf tourism as a driver of year-round tourism, regional development, and sustainable economic growth.
The collaboration between the parties aims to promote the deseasonalization of tourist flows, the development of lesser-known destinations, an increase in the average length of stay of visitors, and the maximization of the economic impact on the territory during events and tournaments. Sports tourism generates 10% of global tourism spending and has an estimated growth rate of 17.5% between 2023 and 2030. This figure confirms the strong multiplier effect of investments: for every €1 million of public investment, €8 of private investment and almost €21 of revenue are generated in the Sport System.
Golf tourism already generates 10% of global travel spending and is projected to grow 17.5% from 2023 to 2030. With Italy ranking fourth globally among luxury travelers seeking golf experiences—behind only the United States, the UK, and France—the protocol consolidates a growing sector that combines sport, culture, gastronomy, and luxury hospitality.
The Golf Factor: Economic Impact and Vision
The agreement underscores the multiplier effect of investments in sports tourism. For every €1 million of public investment, golf-related projects can generate €8 million in private investments and nearly €21 million in total revenues within the broader Sport System. The Ryder Cup 2023 in Rome, which generated over €513 million in direct and indirect effects, is cited as a prime example of how large-scale events deliver tangible and lasting benefits.
Minister Santanchè emphasized the importance of breaking down silos within the industry: “We must stop treating golf courses as isolated entities and instead view them as part of a powerful ecosystem that enriches entire regions.”
Sports Minister Abodi also announced the government is preparing a feasibility plan for a dedicated golf real estate fund, prioritizing southern Italy, as part of efforts to expand infrastructure and attract international golfers.
Beyond Golf: Italy’s Rising Role as a Global Sports Powerhouse
Italy’s ambitions in golf align with its broader sports and tourism strategy. The country has already positioned itself as a leader in international event hosting:
- Tennis: Home to the ATP Finals in Turin, the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome, and the Davis Cup Finals in Bologna. Naples will also host the American Cup in 2027.
- Golf & Beyond: Rome successfully hosted the Ryder Cup 2023, setting new benchmarks in event organization and economic return.
- Team Sports: Italy, together with Turkey, will host the EuroCup 2032.
- Other Prestigious Events: From F1’s Italian Grand Prix in Monza to global cycling tours, Italy is leveraging sport as a cultural and economic engine.
Inside and outside the court, Italy is increasingly seen as a sports powerhouse. With national tennis stars like Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti reaching international heights, and investments in infrastructure across golf, football, and beyond, Italy is consolidating its position as both a competitive force and a premier destination.
For more insights on Italy’s rise as a global sports hub, explore our previous features on the ATP Finals in Turin, which highlighted record-breaking economic returns, and the Davis Cup Finals in Bologna, which focused on the city’s transformation into a world-class tennis destination. These stories complement the latest developments in golf tourism, showing how Italy is building a sports and luxury tourism ecosystem with long-term global impact.
