Sports as an Economic and Cultural Driver: Spain Stands Out in the Organization of International Events

The world of sports has always been a stage where fundamental values for society are transmitted. In this context, the collaboration between the Public Administration and the private sector becomes a fundamental pillar for the organization of large-scale sporting events. This was highlighted by Fernando Molinero, Director General of Sports of the Higher Sports Council (CSD), who emphasized the importance of this alliance during his participation in the Expansión & Marca Business Sport Forum. At a time when the transformation of sports is evident, the role of the public sector becomes crucial. Molinero pointed out that the values transmitted through sports are essential in today's society. In this sense, the Spanish government has shown a clear interest in attracting important sports competitions to the country as part of its strategy to project a positive image internationally and highlight Spain's experience in organizing sports events. The support of the CSD for renowned sporting events is a clear example of this commitment. Investments in competitions such as the women's La Vuelta a España cycling race, the Solheim Cup in golf, and the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix demonstrate a firm commitment to consolidating Spain as a prominent destination on the world sports map. Molinero expressed his desire that in the near future the country could host more than one Formula 1 race, which would further contribute to its international projection. One of the most anticipated events for 2024 is the America's Cup in sailing, for which a significant financial aid has been approved. Molinero highlighted the joint effort between the public administration and private entities to make these high-level competitions possible. Collaboration between different government bodies has also been crucial in this process, as explained by the Director General of Sports of the CSD. The willingness to support and recognize the economic and social impact of sports in Spanish society was another point addressed by Molinero. The CSD director thanked the commitment of all actors involved in the organization of sports events, highlighting the country's role as a host of internationally relevant competitions. The accumulated experience in event organization, along with factors such as climate and security, position Spain as one of the most attractive destinations for the development of sports events, according to Molinero. In addition to focusing on the benefits of sports for health and the transmission of values, Molinero emphasized the economic impact that the sports industry has in Spain. With a weight of 3.3% in the national GDP and the generation of over 400,000 direct jobs, the sports sector stands as an important economic engine that establishes synergies with other key sectors, such as commerce and hospitality. In this context, Fernando Molinero's vision highlights the importance of continuing to bet on the organization of high-level sports events in Spain, taking advantage of the collaboration between the public and private sectors to project an image of excellence internationally. The country thus consolidates itself as a reference in the celebration of sports events, demonstrating its capacity to host events of great magnitude and media projection.