Sports events and tourism: the Singapore Formula One Grand Prix

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the significance of the inaugural Singapore Formula One Grand Prix within a tourism context. Impacts of the event and attitudes towards it are explored with a view to illuminating the consequences of and challenges inherent in sports events tourism for destinations with limited prior experience. Design/methodology/approach A case study approach is employed and the account is based upon the collection and analysis of materials in the public domain. This information is supplemented by primary data obtained from a survey of local residents and personal observation. Findings The Singapore Grand Prix is an example of sports events tourism, a subset of events tourism, which now has an important role in development and marketing strategies. Official expectations of the particular event seem to have been largely met, but understanding of its costs and benefits varies and whether the latter outweighs the former remains to be determined. Lessons have been learned from the experience, but the dynamic environment of tourism means constant change and new dilemmas to confront. Originality/value The use of sports events in tourism strategies is a comparatively recent trend in parts of Asia and the case of Singapore reveals some of the underlying factors and forces at work. Insights are afforded into impacts of major sports contests at such destinations and the obstacles to overcome in pursuit of success.