2026 Edition

Sports Planning Guide Magazine

Sports Planning Guide is dedicated to connecting sports event planners with premier facilities and destinations. For over 15 years, we’ve provided comprehensive resources to assist in planning and selecting ideal locations for tournaments and events.

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Sports Tourism Soars in 2026 and Beyond

Welcome to the 2026 edition of Sports Planning Guide. Every year is exciting in the sports tourism industry.

But this particular year, 2026, seems to have more electricity than usual.

Most likely, that is because this summer, the United States will take center stage as co-hosts of the largest sporting event on the planet, the FIFA Men’s World Cup. For the first time in history, the tournament will expand to 48 teams and 104 matches, spanning three countries: the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Eleven U.S. cities will join the global celebration when matches kick off June 11.

When the U.S. last hosted the World Cup in 1994, the tournament shattered attendance records and ignited a nationwide passion for soccer. Now, more than three decades later, the excitement is again skyrocketing.

This World Cup is projected to generate tens of billions in economic output across North America, with host cities expecting significant tourism dollars from visitor spending on hotels, food and transportation.

To honor this massive event, Sports Planning Guide has rolled out its finest issue yet and has graced our cover with the player many consider the greatest of all time: Inter Miami CF’s Lionel Messi.

In this issue, SPG features 13 state guides that provide an in-depth look at what each state has to offer. If you want to know the best place to host a soccer tournament, swimming competition or any sports event that takes place under the sun (or under LEDs), we have you covered. SPG also spotlights more than 130 destinations across the country in our industry-leading Site InSpections, which feature the most up-to-date information on venues and attractions in each location.

Our comprehensive feature stories will keep you on top of the latest trends as we examine how states are using grants to attract new sporting events; which associations, leagues and stars are powering the pickleball movement; and we investigate price gouging, scalping and the future of sports tourism.

Not to be forgotten, SPG’s soccer expert, Christopher D. Silbernagel, explains how the World Cup’s return will redefine soccer in America.

SPG even has an exclusive interview with Sports ETA President John David, who enlightens us about the state of the industry and where it’s headed. And as always, we close the guide with the thoughts of Huddle Up Group’s founder Jon Schmieder, who shares his sports industry trends for 2026.

It’s going to be a good year. Thanks for joining us on this remarkable ride.

Jason Paha – Chief Editor

Digital Edition Sponsored by Myrtle Beach

Nothing brings people together like sports. And no place brings people together like The Beach. In Myrtle Beach, you’ll find first-class facilities and an experienced planning team that will make sure your sporting or e-sporting event goes off without a hitch. And when the clock ticks down, the real games begin. With 60 miles of activities, over 2,000 restaurants and 14 unique communities, there is no better place to raise the trophy.

Explore Sports in Myrtle Beach

Sports Planning Guide Feature Articles

Community First Champion Center - provided by Fox Cities

Sports Tourism Trends for 2026

The top 10 trends powering the sports tourism boom.

Lionel Messi of Inter Miami celebrates another goal to his tally. Photo courtesy of Inter Miami CF.

From 1994 to 2026: How the World Cup’s Return Will Redefine Soccer in America

Exploring soccer’s growth, global stars and America’s legacy as FIFA World Cup 26 co-host.

From Fans to Family: Building a Year-Round Volunteer Team

How to turn your event volunteers into a connected, motivated community that strengthens your destination.

How States are Using Grants to Attract New Sporting Events

Discover how states are leveraging grants to win sports events and drive powerful tourism growth.

The Who’s Who of Pickleball

Pickleball has evolved beyond a trend into a full-fledged ecosystem, growing from a casual backyard game into a global pathway supported by governing bodies, amateur circuits and more.

Price Gouging, Scalping, and the Future of Sports Tourism

From youth tournaments in small towns to global spectacles like World Cups and the Olympics, sports tourism is a dynamic, growing industry.

Adapted Sports' Growing Footprint

The adapted sport movement in the United States is quickly shifting into a new era that is defined by measurable growth and economic power.

Sports ETA’s John David on Building Global Bridges and Future-Proofing Sports Tourism

A fascinating interview with Sports ETA’s John David provides insight into tomorrow’s tourism landscape.

Dive Deeper with Sports Site Inspections

Sports Planning Guide’s Site InSpections offer in-depth analyses of premier sports venues and destinations across the United States and beyond. These detailed profiles provide event planners with essential information on facilities, amenities, and local attractions, facilitating informed decisions for hosting successful tournaments and events. Explore our comprehensive Site InSpections to discover the ideal location for your next sporting event.