Between November 2023 and November 2024, fitness classes emerged as the most popular sport activity in England. Roughly 6.7 million people participated in the activity at least twice a month during that period.

We asked UK consumers about "Most popular sports activities" and found that ******** takes the top spot, while **************** is at the other end of the ranking.These results are based on a representative online survey conducted in 2025 among 11,445 consumers in the UK.

We asked UK consumers about "Interest in sport types" and found that ******** takes the top spot, while ********** is at the other end of the ranking.These results are based on a representative online survey conducted in 2025 among 9,989 consumers in the UK.

In 2024, one in three adults in Great Britain followed football, making it the most popular spectator sport. Meanwhile, ** percent of adults followed motorsports.

A 2022 survey revealed that approximately ** percent of the population of the United Kingdom were interested in soccer, making it the most popular sport in the country. Meanwhile, around ** percent of respondents in the survey were fans of boxing.

Percentage of the adult population participating in sports taken from Sport England's Active People Survey.

The survey provides by far the largest sample size ever established for a sport and recreation survey and allows levels of detailed analysis previously unavailable. It identifies how participation varies from place to place and between different groups in the population.

The spreadsheet shows regional data for two measures:

• 1+ session a week (at least 4 sessions of at least moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes in the previous 28 days)

• 3+ sessions a week (at least 12 sessions of at least moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes in the previous 28 days)

Between November 2023 and November 2024, approximately *** million people participated in team sports in England. This marked an increase from the previous period, during which *** million individuals participated in team sports.

Data on total minutes of exercise, club membership, sports event attendance and opportunity to be physically active to Local Authority District level. Figures also provided for male and female.

In a survey conducted during the 2023/24 academic year, it was found that roughly 40 percent of children aged five to 16 had taken part in football in the week leading up to being surveyed. Meanwhile, 26.6 percent had engaged in running, jogging, cross-country, or the Daily Mile.

The statistic displays the results of a survey on the share of females participating in afterschool sports within the previous year in Northern Ireland in 2015/2016, by type of sport. In 2016/2017, it was found that 12 percent of female respondents stated that they played hockey as an afterschool sport in the previous year. Overall sport participation in Northern Ireland has held a steady level of around 53 percent in the past years. More information about sport in Northern Ireland can be found in the Dossier: Sport in Northern Ireland.

The Sporting Goods Manufacturing industry has grown steadily in recent years as higher sports participation rates and easing cost pressures support demand. Sport England reported that 63.7% of adults met the 150-minute weekly activity guideline in 2023-24, the highest on record. This shift means manufacturers can now count on a steadier base of demand rather than short-lived tournament spikes, giving businesses more certainty to plan production and launch new products. At the same time, costs have eased from their 2022-23 peaks. ONS data shows producer input prices declined 2.3% in the year to October 2024, with crude oil input costs falling 22.5% over the same period, improving profitability in a design-led industry where strong branding supports pricing power. Over the five years through 2025-26, industry revenue is projected to swell at a compound annual rate of 3.4% to reach £1.1 billion, with revenue set to climb by 2.9% in 2025-26. Innovation and compliance pressures are reshaping competition. World Rugby required smart mouthguards in October 2023, while Six Nations Rugby adopted them in January 2024, pushing up R&D costs but creating higher-value product lines. The UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax increased to £223.69 per tonne in April 2025, prompting redesigns and adding to operating costs. Larger companies are better placed to absorb these shifts, while smaller ones face tighter profit margins. Over the five years through 2030-31, industry revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 6.4% to reach £1.5 billion. Modest income gains and £100 million in government funding for sports facilities in 2025-26 will anchor demand, while the UEFA EURO 2028 is expected to boost visibility and trigger upgrades. Sustainability and traceability rules for packaging and supply chains, together with reshoring and weather-driven demand for synthetic pitches, mean future growth will reward manufacturers that adapt quickly.

The sports tourism market offers a diverse range of products, from tickets to sporting events, travel packages that offer accommodation and transportation, and specialized tours that cater to specific sports and destinations. Football/soccer continues to be the leading product segment, followed by cricket and motorsport. Other popular sports include tennis, basketball, and baseball. Recent developments include: November 2022: In November 2022, starting from January 2023, Inspirport, a leading UK provider of youth sports development tours, will enter into an exclusive collaboration with Cricket Scotland. The company has recently introduced The R66T Festival of Cricket and The R66T Dubai Cup, along with providing domestic tours to Lancashire Cricket., September 2022: In September 2022, Gullivers Sport Travel, the Group Travel Specialist, revealed a one-year partnership where Waratahs Alumni will host four sports travel tours during the Rugby World Cup in France, featuring Darren Coleman, Phil Waugh, Tony Dempsey, and Ian Kennedy.. Notable trends are: Rising growth in the sports industry and the increase in women’s team participation in various leagues and tournaments in Sports Tourism is driving the market growth.

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Sports Tourism Market Size 2025-2029

The sports tourism market size is forecast to increase by USD 701.6 billion at a CAGR of 12.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing number of sporting events and the development of virtual reality technology. These factors are creating new opportunities for businesses to engage fans and tourists alike, offering immersive experiences that extend beyond the physical event. However, market expansion is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles and financial constraints have led to the cancelation of several sports events, tempering growth potential. Despite these obstacles, companies can capitalize on the market's momentum by focusing on innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. The integration of technology, such as virtual reality, into sports tourism offerings, can help mitigate the impact of event cancellations and provide fans with unique experiences that transcend geographical boundaries.
Additionally, collaborations with sports organizations and travel agencies can expand reach and create new revenue streams. By staying attuned to market trends and addressing challenges proactively, businesses can effectively navigate the dynamic sports tourism landscape and seize opportunities for growth.

What will be the Size of the Sports Tourism Market during the forecast period?

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The market is experiencing significant growth and innovation, with digital marketing playing a pivotal role in reaching consumers. Mountain biking and ski resorts are popular attractions, driving demand for adventure tourism. Sporting events and festivals serve as key catalysts, boosting destination marketing and tourism branding. Tourism infrastructure development is crucial for accommodating the increasing number of visitors.
Sports tourism certification ensures adherence to industry standards, enhancing consumer trust. Sports governing bodies and associations collaborate to create a harmonious environment, fostering growth in the sports tourism sector. Ski resorts and mountain biking trails leverage digital marketing strategies, adhering to

How is this Sports Tourism Industry segmented?

The sports tourism industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Domestic sports tourism
  International sports tourism


Product

  Soccer tourism
  Cricket tourism
  Tennis tourism
  Others


Area

  Passive sports tourism
  Active sports tourism


Destination

  Urban Centers
  Coastal Regions
  Mountain Areas


Travel Services

  Tour Packages
  Accommodation


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The domestic sports tourism segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is characterized by the participation and attendance of domestic tourists at various sports events within their countries. Domestic sports tourism encompasses expenditures on hospitality, merchandise, and transportation related to these events. The convenience of intra-region transportation and the use of uniform regional currencies contribute to the popularity of domestic sports tourism. Professional sports leagues and teams facilitate fan travel between venues, further increasing domestic tourist attendance. Fitness events, water sports, mountain biking, golf courses, and adventure tourism are popular domains within sports tourism. Tourism stakeholders invest in tourism infrastructure, sports facilities, and digital marketing to attract and engage tourists.

Sustainability and environmental impact are becoming significant considerations in sports tourism development. Amateur sports, spectator events, and sports training also contribute to the market's growth. Social media marketing, customer relationship management, and online booking platforms streamline the tourist experience. Sports apparel, equipment, and mobile apps cater to the needs of active holidaymakers. Tourism policy and partnerships play a crucial role in sports tourism promotion and investment. Sports tourism development continues to evolve, integrating data analytics and event management to enhance the overall tourist experience.

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The Domestic sports tourism segment was valued at USD 546.90 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

Europe is estimated to contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio's analys

The UK sports drink market, while part of a larger global industry exhibiting a 4.15% CAGR, presents unique characteristics. Its growth is fueled by increasing health consciousness, rising participation in fitness activities, and a growing preference for functional beverages offering hydration and electrolyte replenishment. The market segmentation reveals a strong reliance on supermarkets/hypermarkets as the primary distribution channel, reflecting the convenience and accessibility these locations offer consumers. However, the emergence of online retail channels presents a significant growth opportunity, allowing for direct-to-consumer marketing and expanding reach beyond traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Key players like PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Suntory Holdings Ltd. dominate the market, leveraging established brand recognition and extensive distribution networks. However, smaller, specialized brands focusing on natural ingredients and unique formulations are also gaining traction, appealing to consumers seeking healthier alternatives. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with established players facing pressure to innovate and adapt to evolving consumer preferences. Furthermore, the market is likely experiencing increased demand for sugar-reduced and functional formulations, reflecting the broader shift towards healthier lifestyles in the UK. The UK's relatively high disposable income and focus on athletic pursuits contributes to a robust demand for premium and specialized sports drinks, fostering continuous market evolution. The predicted growth trajectory for the UK sports drink market is expected to remain positive, though potentially at a slightly moderated pace compared to the global average. This is attributable to factors such as market saturation in certain segments, price sensitivity amongst consumers, and the increasing competition from other functional beverage categories. Nevertheless, the consistent rise in fitness participation and the ongoing innovation within the sports drink sector, including the introduction of new flavors, formulations, and packaging, will contribute to sustained market expansion. Analyzing the market share of different distribution channels will offer insights into potential strategies for businesses, particularly concerning online retail expansion. Furthermore, understanding consumer preferences related to ingredients and formulations is crucial for brand development and product innovation in this competitive market. Future projections should account for economic fluctuations and broader health and wellness trends impacting consumer spending habits. Recent developments include: January 2023: Science in Sport (SiS) partnered with Saracens' Rugby Club (United Kingdom, London) to provide the team with extensive nutritional support for their training and competition. According to the company, Science in Sport would help the Saracens team with a complete nutritional strategy and access to the specialized products provided as part of a new three-year deal to ensure that they are able to compete and recover at the greatest level., February 2022: Applied Nutrition, a United Kingdom-based sports nutrition company, launched a new L-Carnitine sports drink. It is the company's first L-Carnitine RTD beverage (a substance that improves energy metabolism). The company offers three flavors of the beverage: apple and blackcurrant, raspberry and cherry, and summer fruits. According to the company, the new 500-ml drink has no sugar, no calories, 1,500mg of L-Carnitine, vitamins B3, B6, and B12, and is mineral-rich, made with Northumbria spring water., November 2021: Coca-Cola acquired Bodyarmor, an American sports drink company. Body armor is now a fully owned subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company and is available in the United Kingdom., . Notable trends are: Increased Sports Participation Driving Sports Drink Demand.

Snapshot img

Fantasy Sports Market Size 2025-2029

The fantasy sports market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.13 billion, at a CAGR of 7.1% between 2024 and 2029.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for a 35% growth during the forecast period.
By the Product - Fantasy soccer segment was valued at USD 8.78 billion in 2023
By the Application - Individual Competition segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 56.96 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD USD 10.13 billion 
CAGR : 7.1%
North America: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market continues to expand its reach and influence across various industries, with an increasing number of businesses recognizing its potential for customer engagement and revenue generation. According to recent studies, the market is projected to experience significant growth, with a substantial increase in user adoption rates. For instance, The market size was valued at approximately USD15 billion in 2020, and it is anticipated to expand at a steady pace in the coming years. Fantasy sports platforms have gained popularity in sectors such as media, entertainment, and consumer goods, offering unique opportunities for brand promotion and fan engagement. In the media industry, fantasy sports have become a staple for sports broadcasters and networks, providing an additional revenue stream through advertising and subscription fees. Meanwhile, consumer goods companies have leveraged fantasy sports to boost sales and customer loyalty by offering exclusive promotions and discounts to participants. Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms in fantasy sports platforms has led to enhanced user experience and personalized recommendations, further fueling the market's growth. Despite the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding the potential negative effects of fantasy sports on health and well-being, the market's continuous evolution and expanding applications make it an exciting and dynamic space to watch.

What will be the Size of the Fantasy Sports Market during the forecast period?

Explore market size, adoption trends, and growth potential for fantasy sports market Request Free SampleThe market experiences consistent growth, with current participation estimated at approximately 60 million people worldwide. This figure represents a significant increase from previous years, underscoring the market's continuous evolution. Looking ahead, industry experts project a future growth rate of around 15%, driven by advancements in technology and user experience. Fantasy sports platforms have become essential tools for enthusiasts, offering features such as player performance metrics, injury reporting, and points-per-game scoring. These platforms employ game theory applications, tournament formats, and roster optimization to create engaging user experiences. Value-based drafting and optimal lineup generation are critical components, as is risk assessment modeling and prize structures. Transaction processing, matchup analysis, and chat functionality further enhance the user experience. Expert advice and user engagement metrics are also essential, with fraud detection systems ensuring fair play. The market caters to both season-long leagues and daily fantasy sports, providing league management tools and statistical modeling to optimize lineup construction and salary cap management. Machine learning algorithms and probability calculations are integral to player projections and draft strategy, while scoring system design and ownership percentage rankings facilitate informed decision-making. The industry's diverse offerings cater to a wide range of sports, from football and basketball to baseball and soccer.

How is this Fantasy Sports Industry segmented?

The fantasy sports industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ProductFantasy soccerFantasy baseballFantasy basketballFantasy footballOthersApplicationIndividual CompetitionTeam CompetitionDemographicUnder 25 YearsBetween 25 and 40 YearsAbove 40 YearsDietary PreferenceVeganGluten-FreeKetoTarget AudienceBusy ProfessionalsHealth EnthusiastsGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKMiddle East and AfricaEgyptKSAOmanUAEAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth AmericaArgentinaBrazilRest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The fantasy soccer segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic and continually evolving realm of fantasy sports, soccer holds a significant position. Participants construct imaginary teams consisting of real-life soccer pla

The European sports team and clubs market, encompassing football, golf, rugby union, cricket, boxing, and other sports, is experiencing robust growth, projected to maintain a CAGR exceeding 7.20% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several factors. The surging popularity of live sports broadcasting, particularly through streaming platforms, fuels significant media rights revenue. Increased merchandising sales, driven by strong brand loyalty and the growing influence of social media, contribute substantially. Furthermore, the lucrative sponsorship market, with brands vying for association with high-profile teams and athletes, significantly boosts overall market value. The increasing globalization of sports, coupled with rising disposable incomes in several European nations, further fuels demand for tickets and experiences surrounding these sporting events. While the market faces potential restraints from economic downturns that could impact spending on entertainment, the overall positive trajectory is expected to continue, particularly driven by the enduring appeal of popular sports like football (soccer) across various age demographics. Market segmentation by type (football dominating) and revenue source highlights the diverse revenue streams and potential for growth within specific areas. Key players such as SL Benfica, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich play a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics. The UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain represent the largest market segments within Europe. The geographic distribution of revenue within Europe reflects the established dominance of major football leagues and the overall sporting culture in specific countries. While football dominates the revenue share, other sports are experiencing growth, albeit at a slower pace. Strategic partnerships, technological advancements enhancing fan engagement (e.g., virtual reality, augmented reality), and improved infrastructure for hosting events are anticipated to positively influence market growth. However, effective management of financial risks associated with player transfers and operational costs remains critical for long-term success for clubs and teams. The market's future prospects hinge on successfully adapting to evolving fan expectations and leveraging digital platforms to reach broader audiences. The forecast indicates continued strong expansion, driven by the enduring passion for sports across Europe and the increasing commercialization of the industry. Recent developments include: June 2023: The PGA Tour merged with LIV Golf, which is backed by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, an entity controlled by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. PGA Tour exists as a membership organization for touring professional golfers and co-sanctioning tournaments., December 2022: Eagle Football Holdings Bidco Limited, a London-based group founded by digital entrepreneur and football enthusiast John Textors, acquired a significant controlling stake in French Ligue 1 soccer team Olympique Lyonnais Groupe SA.. Key drivers for this market are: Increase in Number of Spectators Watching Sports, Increase in Number of Sports Event Post COVID-19. Potential restraints include: Increase in Number of Spectators Watching Sports, Increase in Number of Sports Event Post COVID-19. Notable trends are: Rising Football And Soccer Industry In Europe.