The data appeal company, part of the Almawave Group, has launched a report revealing that between April and October 2024, UK sporting events generated more than £2.2 billion in spending and attracted nearly 25.6 million attendees across more than 3,200 events.
This report, Wimbledon and more: data snapshots of UK sporting events and their impacts provide in-depth information on iconic events like Wimbledon, the UK Grand Prix, London Marathon Drive visitor spending, accommodation trends, and economic growth across the UK.
According to the UK event report, the sporting events sector alone contributed roughly £9.753 billion to the UK economy in 2024.
“These events provide cities with unique opportunities to promote short-term revenue and long-term visibility,” said Mirko Lalli, CEO and Founder of Data Appeal.
Lalli added: “For destinations and organizers, insights are strategic: curating the right combination of events. Attracting high-value audiences and creating a wide range of public engagement is far more effective than simply aiming for crowd numbers.”
Top UK Events: Festivals and Sporting Events
This data reveals a clear distinction between festivals and sporting events in terms of attendance and economic impact. Festivals like Notting Hill Carnival and London Pride attract a large crowd, while sporting events like Wimbledon and the UK Grand Prix spend significantly more per visitor.
Wimbledon is expected to generate more than £224 million from 526,000 participants, making a significant contribution from Hospitality Services.
The UK Grand Prix is also leading the total spending, with £188 million predicted.
Gemini’s boat races are ranked as high-expense events despite declining attendance due to their exclusive audience.
Top-class sporting events and their economic impact
From April to October 2025, Wimbledon led the UK sporting event with a projected spending of £224.8 million, followed by the UK Grand Prix (£188.6 million) and Gemini Boat Race (£1.752 million).
The Open Championship (£82.1 million in hospitality) and the TCS London Marathon (£60 million in F&B) rounded out the top five, with the marathon winning the biggest attendance (800,000) and the wider citywide impact.
Overall, elite events increase per person spending, while large events increase city tourism and public engagement.
Source link
