Türkiye emerges as a top-tier hub for sports tourism events in the rapidly expanding global sports events market, which is projected to reach USD 609.07 billion by 2031. By combining seamlessly world-class MICE infrastructure with a dynamic and well-developed sports tourism ecosystem, the country has positioned itself as a premier destination for international events. One of the latest highlights on the country’s event calendar Sports & Events Türkiye, will take place in the Turkish Riviera’s tourism hub, Antalya, from May 31 to June 3; further reinforcing Türkiye’s growing influence on the global stage.
Sports & Events Türkiye, the country’s first international sports tourism platform, organized under the auspices of the Sports Tourism Association (STB), the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Türkiye, the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Governorship of Antalya, and the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), will bring together global stakeholders from the sports and events sectors in Antalya, strengthening Türkiye’s presence in the international sports tourism landscape. The event will also connect Turkish suppliers with key buyers from Eurasia and the Middle East, offering a collaborative platform across sports travel, group tours, tournaments, and high-performance training programs, while supporting Türkiye’s evolving role as a regional and international meeting point for the industry.
Türkiye’s Sports Tourism Opens Up to the World
Following its global launch at Sports & Events Sevilla, Sports & Events Türkiye is preparing to bring together global sports tourism professionals with Türkiye’s premier destinations and facilities. Building on the success of Sports & Events Europe in destinations like Mallorca and Valencia, the Turkish edition aims to host over 300 international participants and over 80 local sports tour operators and suppliers, while facilitating more than 1,000 B2B business meetings. Participants will experience a comprehensive programme at the event, featuring networking sessions, hotel and facility site inspections, sports activities, Antalya city experiences, and an exclusive gala night.
Sport Activities for All Seasons in Türkiye
Blessed with four distinct seasons and diverse landscapes, Türkiye offers a wide range of opportunities for adventure and sports throughout the year. Visitors can explore ancient trails on hiking routes, cycle across varied terrains, or enjoy adrenaline-filled activities such as paragliding. From diving and kitesurfing along the blue coasts in summer to skiing on snow-capped mountains in winter, the country delivers year-round experiences, while spring and autumn are ideal for activities like golf and rafting.
These diverse offerings not only position Türkiye as a leading destination for active and adventure-focused travel but also establish it as a key hub for world-class sporting events. The country hosts a diverse range of prestigious competitions, ranging from flagship events such as the Tour of Türkiye to the Bosphorus Cup and internationally recognized trail-running races like KAÇKAR BY UTMB. The high standard of these events continues to attract global attention, with the Salomon Cappadocia Ultra Trail, for example, recently awarded in the “Community Impact in Sports Tourism” category at the “Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism.”
Antalya: Where Nature Meets Global Sports Excellence
In addition to being the holiday hotspot on the Turkish Riviera, Antalya offers excellent opportunities for a wide range of sports and tournaments, supported by its year-round mild Mediterranean climate and around 300 days of sunshine. From hiking the Lycian Way and cycling routes between Tahtalı Mountain and the coast, to golfing in Belek, diving in Kaş, rafting in Köprülü Canyon, and climbing in Geyikbayırı, the region combines diverse outdoor experiences. It is also a highly popular destination for football training camps, thanks to its high-quality facilities and services, making it a year-round hub for both professional and recreational sports activities.
Antalya’s sporting profile is further enhanced by a rich calendar of international events, including the Turkish Airlines Open, endurance races such as the Alanya Ultra Trail and Runtalya, cycling event like Tour of Antalya. Building on its experience hosting global gatherings like the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) and 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) the city is now set to further strengthen its position in global sports tourism with Sports & Events Türkiye. ///nCa, 12 May 2026 (in cooperation with the Embassy of Turkiye to Turkmenistan)