Identifying Revenue-Driving Drivers of Sporting Events in a 10-Year Horizon Using a Structural Analysis Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Sports Management, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran.

2 Department of Sport Management, Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

4 Department of Sports Management, Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Quds Branch, Tehran, Iran.

10.22034/jsmk.2026.69401.1196

Abstract

Given the economic importance of sporting events, identifying the key drivers of revenue generation in the future horizon is of special significance. This study, utilizing a structural analysis approach, examines the revenue-driving factors over the next 10 years. The research aims to identify the revenue drivers of sporting events over a 10-year horizon through structural analysis. In a context where sustainable revenue generation from sporting events has become a key priority, especially at the international level, analyzing the key factors influencing this trend is essential. This study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in method, based on explanatory foresight approaches. The statistical population included 20 experts comprising professors in sports management and experienced managers in organizing sporting events, selected purposively. To identify influential factors, literature review and expert interviews were conducted, leading to the extraction of 24 key components related to revenue generation in sporting events over the next 10 years. Structural analysis results revealed that four factors “online ticket sales and management platform,” “development of sports infrastructure and stadium equipment,” “financing and attracting reputable sponsors,” and “precise logistical planning and event management” possess the highest levels of importance and uncertainty. These factors, as strategic drivers, should be considered in formulating future scenarios and macro-level planning for sustainable revenue generation in sporting events.

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References

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Journal of Sport Management Knowledge
Volume 4, Issue 1 - Serial Number 7
September 2026
Pages 41-62

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History

  • Receive Date: 28 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 21 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 26 April 2026

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