Mega Events: Impact, challenges and prospects

Abstract

Due to their scale and the diversity of economic, social, political, and cultural issues they raise, sporting mega-events are attracting growing interest in scientific research. This literature review takes a critical and integrative approach to better understand the complex effects of these events. It analyzes the expected positive spin-offs as well as the numerous reservations highlighted in the literature, particularly those concerning profitability, social inequalities, governance, and sustainability. The central question is: To what extent can sports mega-events promote a country's development and increase its visibility and influence on the international stage?

To address this issue, the analysis draws on studies by researchers in various fields and on Morocco's preparations to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. These events provide a unique opportunity to examine infrastructure, public management, sports diplomacy, and economic and symbolic spinoffs.

This analysis aims to provide researchers, public decision-makers, and stakeholders involved in organizing these events with an analytical framework based on a rigorous summary of existing scientific publications combined with a critical reading of the Moroccan experience.

Classification JEL: Z20

Paper type: Theoretical Research