TEHRAN - Kordestan has the potential to become a hub for sports tourism through arranging athletic events, according to governor-general.

“While Kordestan may currently lack in infrastructure, the province boasts a high capacity for sports relative to its population and geographical size,” Esmaeel Zarei-Kousha stated, during a meeting on Friday. “Despite these challenges, Kordestan is rich in talent across various sports disciplines, and we believe that hosting sports events will help in identifying and nurturing these talents.”

The province, the official underscored, has the necessary potential for the development of sports tourism, which is a key factor in attracting both domestic and international tourists.

He further elaborated that Kordestan, is already well-known for its diverse tourism attractions, adding that the province’s sports sector can serve as a platform to promote the offerings.

“The province needs to be better recognized so that its tourism capacities can fully blossom,” Zarei-Kousha concluded. “Sports offer an effective avenue for achieving this goal.”

Sports tourism is a rapidly growing segment of the global tourism industry, encompassing travel for the purpose of participating in or viewing sports events. This niche market includes a wide range of activities, from international sporting events like the Olympics to local and regional competitions.
Sports tourism generates substantial revenue for host destinations through spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. It also creates jobs and stimulates investment in infrastructure. Hosting sports events provides opportunities for local residents to engage in and benefit from tourism activities. 

With the growing popularity of sports globally, more destinations are investing in facilities to attract sports tourists. This trend is particularly notable in regions looking to diversify their tourism offerings. There is a rising focus on making sports tourism sustainable, ensuring that it benefits local communities while minimizing environmental impacts. 
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