Can sports events contribute to public policy development strategies?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose Sports events are a fundamental strategic tool for the development of sports policies and can influence the social and economic dynamics of territories. This study analyses the perceptions of the local community on the social and economic impact of a set of sports events integrated into a local government-promoted sports policy intervention. Design/methodology/approach We applied a questionnaire to a sample of 157 residents in the host city for the sports events held under the auspices of the European City of Sport 2018 (Braga, Portugal). Findings The results demonstrate how the city’s residents perceive the event generated positive impacts on that region in different dimensions, specifically in terms of the city's image and social benefits. Residents also expressed satisfaction with the sports policies pursued by the municipality. Practical implications Sport events are crucial to the social and economic dynamics of regions and can underpin the development of sports policies. This study identifies relevant factors for decision making on future local community sports events. Research Contribution Our study helps managers and politicians seeking to develop a more efficient structuring of their strategies to maximise the positive impacts that sports events can generate in various territorial contexts.