Social sustainability of non-mega sport events in a global world 1

This contribution offers a theoretical perspective on the social impacts of sport events. Most research in this area has focused on global mega sport events (MSEs). However, given the fact that there are many more, smaller non-mega sport events (NMSEs) being organised in this global world, the paper calls for a reflection on how these smaller types of events can potentially contribute to benefit residents of local communities. The paper contrasts and compares social impacts and outcomes of both, MSEs and NMSEs, using four different perspectives: power relations, urban regeneration, socialisation, and human capital. There is reason to believe that NMSEs may be more relevant in creating durable benefits for host communities, as compared to MSEs. This is explained through the concept of social capital. Because NMSEs are omni-present, they may provide more lasting global benefits. The paper calls for a broader research agenda focussing on the true value of small and medium sized sport events for local communities.