India’s sports industry has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with projections
placing its value at ₹16,633 Cr in 2024. This is a 6% increase from 2023 and nearly 7x
growth since 2008. As the country embraces a sports-centric culture, both traditional and
emerging sports are experiencing a surge in popularity. Here’s an overview of the industry’s
evolution and why sports management professionals are in high demand.
Key Growth Areas in India’s Sports Industry
Cricket remains the dominant force in the industry, holding 85% of the market
share.
Emerging sports such as kabaddi, football, marathons, and pickleball are
growing rapidly at 19% year-on-year.
Athlete endorsements grew by 32% in 2024.
Digital media spending surged by 25%, showing the growing commercial potential
of sports beyond traditional formats.
Regional Sports Growth in India
Several states are leading the charge in building a multi-sport culture, with notable events
like:
Maharashtra: Mumbai Marathon
West Bengal: Kolkata 25K
Karnataka: TCS 10K in Bengaluru
Delhi: Vedanta Half Marathon
Tamil Nadu: Chennai events
Telangana: Hyderabad NMDC Run
Gujarat: Adani-backed Ahmedabad events
These events are fostering a shift in India from being a sports-watching nation to a sports-
playing nation, with a growing participation in fitness and competitive sports across the
country.
Why India’s Sports Industry is Booming
The sports ecosystem in India is now a multi-billion-rupee sector, encompassing:
Professional sports leagues (IPL, ISL, Pro Kabaddi, etc.)
International tournaments
Fitness clubs and gyms
Esports
Sports media and broadcasting
With this rapid expansion, there is a high demand for professionals skilled in sports
management, including roles in operations, marketing, talent management, and event
coordination.
Sports Management: A Career Path to Success
The rapid growth of the sports industry presents a unique opportunity for those pursuing a
Sports Management degree. Whether it’s:
Managing the business side of a team
Organizing large-scale international events
Shaping the future of emerging sports
The demand for sports management professionals has never been higher. Enrolling in a
Sports Management program equips you with the knowledge and skills to thrive in this
dynamic industry.
The Future of Sports Management in India
As the sports industry in India continues to evolve, it brings limitless opportunities for
passionate professionals who want to contribute to the development of the sports
ecosystem. Now is the perfect time to enter the field of sports management and be part of
India’s transformation into a sports powerhouse.