Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Investment, Civil Aviation and Transportation, Michael Freeland, says sports tourism could become one of the next major drivers of economic growth for Antigua and Barbuda as the country continues positioning itself as a regional hub for events and entertainment.

Speaking on 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 during the programme. “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 within the region, explaining that major events already attract large contingents of overseas visitors to Antigua and Barbuda.

Using local drag racing events as an example, Freeland noted that a single overseas racing team can travel with drivers, mechanics, tuners, and supporters, creating immediate demand for flights, accommodations, transportation, restaurants, and entertainment.

He 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.

According to Freeland, the economic benefits 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 traditionally slower tourism months between June and September.

Freeland also referenced the growing impact of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), noting that supporters regularly travel to Antigua several days before matches to ensure they do not miss games involving their teams.

He said Antigua and Barbuda is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for conventions, entertainment, and sporting events because of deliberate planning and investment by the government.

“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 sports tourism also creates pressure for improvements in healthcare services, sporting facilities, and infrastructure, as international visitors expect countries hosting major events to provide efficient support systems and emergency services.

Freeland said sports tourism remains an agenda he intends to strongly advocate for moving forward, while working alongside the Ministry of Sports and other stakeholders to expand Antigua and Barbuda’s presence within the regional and international sporting market.