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World Cup hosting bids intensify as tourism and global attention drive value
Hosting the tournament has been linked to large tourism inflows, with Qatar drawing more than 1 million international visitors in 2022.
SCMP Economy says governments view the FIFA World Cup as more than a sports event, framing hosting as an opportunity to capture global attention that can translate into economic gains. Beyond national pride, the outlet highlights exposure that can lift tourism demand and generate long term revenue streams, citing Cabo Verde’s rise to the round of 32 as an example of how visibility can transform a lesser known destination.
The piece notes that World Cup hosting races are among the most fiercely contested bidding processes in international sport, with the rewards described as sizable. It points to Russia 2018 as a tournament that cost more than US$14 billion, and to Qatar 2022 as drawing more than 1 million international visitors.
SCMP Economy adds that the potential benefits extend beyond tourism and jobs to global prestige. It argues that during the tournament, domestic headlines can be eclipsed by international media focus on stadiums, cities, and fans, changing what governments and economies are judged on for a concentrated four week window.