The idea is to promote sports tourism as a diversification strategy that complements the traditional sun and beach offering.
SANTO DOMINGO – On Wednesday, January 21st at 11:00 a.m. local time, the Dominican Republic will officially present its National Sports Tourism Strategy at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR 2026), in the Dominican Pavilion at IFEMA Madrid.
Tourism Minister David Collado will present the country as a world-class destination for hosting international sporting events, and will try to show how this commitment impacts the local economy.
The disciplines that are part of the country's sports tourism strategy include golf, triathlon, tennis, surfing and water sports, baseball and multi-sport competitions such as the Central American Games, all selected for their ability to attract international visitors, diversify the tourism offer and project the country brand beyond sun and beach.
The strategy includes the promotion of competitions with their own names, such as the PGA Corales (golf), Oceanman (open water swimming), Ironman (triathlon), the Dominican Republic Open (ATP – tennis), the Master of the Ocean (surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing), the Cabarete Pro, the Nights of Legends and the Central American Games.
According to Collado, “sport projects us onto the world stage, strengthens our national brand, and boosts the local economy in every destination that hosts international events.” With this vision, sports tourism becomes a key driver of diversification that complements the traditional sun and beach offerings.
Impact on communities
Beyond the international showcase, sporting events generate a direct impact on host communities, as each competition involves hotel occupancy, temporary jobs, consumption in restaurants and shops, as well as media visibility for the destinations.
In Punta Cana, for example, the Ironman 70.3 has meant a notable increase in the arrival of visitors during the low season, while in Bayahibe the Oceanman has put the destination on the map of open water swimming.
The Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores) has stated that FITUR is vital for promoting the country as a multi-destination, integrating new regions and tourism products. In this regard, sports tourism becomes a tool for attracting high-end visitors and diversifying the offerings.
Dominican tourism is measured not only in investment figures, but also in experiences that transform communities. With sports as its flagship, the Dominican Republic seeks to strengthen its national brand and demonstrate that inclusion, hospitality, and international competitiveness can go hand in hand.
