Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Investment, Civil Aviation and Transportation Michael Freeland is positioning sports tourism as one of the next major engines of economic growth for Antigua and Barbuda, as the country continues its push to become a regional hub for events and entertainment.
Speaking on the programme On Point over the weekend, Freeland pointed to drag racing, cricket, and other regional sporting events as untapped opportunities capable of generating significant economic activity, increasing visitor arrivals, and boosting local businesses.
Freeland, who has long advocated for sports tourism even before entering government, said the sector has the potential to fuel multiple industries simultaneously.
"Sports tourism is something else that can fuel the Antiguan economy," he said. "It is tourism, and you know how sports bring different people together."
The junior minister highlighted drag racing and cricket as two of the strongest sporting products in the region, noting that major events already attract large numbers of overseas visitors. Using local drag racing as an example, he explained that a single overseas racing team can travel with drivers, mechanics, tuners, and supporters, creating immediate demand for flights, accommodations, transportation, restaurants, and entertainment.
Freeland revealed that during one drag racing event held earlier this year, 18 overseas vehicles participated, with dozens of supporters travelling alongside competitors, particularly from Barbados.
The economic benefits, he stressed, extend far beyond the racetrack. "You're talking about overnight stays, rentals, bars, restaurants — all of these businesses benefit," he said, adding that sports tourism could help stimulate economic activity during the traditionally slower months of June through September.
Freeland also referenced the growing impact of the Caribbean Premier League, noting that supporters regularly travel to Antigua several days before matches to avoid missing games involving their teams.
He said Antigua and Barbuda is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for conventions, entertainment, and sporting events as a result of deliberate government planning and investment. "We are becoming the most central country for things to happen," Freeland stated. "It's not by chance, it's by design."
The minister added that hosting major international events also creates pressure to improve healthcare services, sporting facilities, and infrastructure, as visiting delegations expect efficient support systems and emergency services to be in place.
Freeland said sports tourism remains a priority he intends to champion going forward, working alongside the Ministry of Sports and other stakeholders to expand Antigua and Barbuda's footprint in both the regional and international sporting market.
