Production Passport Newsletter |🌍 From MMA to Hydrogen Racing: Hosting Goes Purpose-First at HFS

Today’s Top Pick 🔎

🏟️ What Lausanne Got Right: The Future of Global Sports Hosting

Some summits focus on spectacle. Others, on strategy. The Hosts & Federations Summit 2025 in Lausanne did both — redefining what it means to host with purpose.

Across two days of insight and ambition, one thing became clear: the future of sporting mega-events is no longer reserved for the elite — it's being reshaped by bold, community-first visionaries.

From the IOC’s Christophe Dubi calling for “joy-first” legacy models, to Extreme E’s hydrogen-fuelled climate activism, and MMA’s grassroots global surge — the summit surfaced a new playbook: one built on values, access, and long-term impact.

ClickZ’s Noah Gershon was on the ground capturing the voices and themes shaping the next era of global hosting.

📖 Press here to read our full recap 

Sector Spotlight 🌟

SPORTS TOURISM TRENDS

Luxury, Tech, And Passion Power Indian Fans' Immersive Sports Travel Experiences

Harsh Jain, CEO of Dream Sports, discusses the dynamic interplay between sports, technology, and travel among Indian fans. As a leader in the field, Jain notes the sharp uptick in Indians travelling to experience sporting events firsthand, driven by a desire for more immersive and luxurious engagements. In 2024, DreamSetGo facilitated travel for over 15,000 fans, underscoring the growing appetite for such experiences. He emphasises that modern enthusiasts are not merely spectators; they seek full immersion, combining live sports with cultural exploration and luxury, driven by both an emotional connection through fantasy sports and a deep-seated passion for the game.

SPORTS FUNDING STRATEGY

UK Government Commits $1.2 Billion to Major Sports Events and Facilities

The UK government's commitment to investing approximately $1.2 billion in sports events and facilities reflects a strategic vision to elevate the country's position in the global sporting arena. Notably, the funding will be directed towards major events, including the 2028 European Championships, the 2027 Tour de France, and the 2026 European Athletics Championships. Such significant investments highlight the potential for economic growth and community engagement across the UK, underpinning a bright and connected future for sports.

In addition to hosting international competitions, this investment encompasses grassroots facility upgrades, promoting sports participation at community levels. Through these initiatives, the government underscores its dedication to fostering a rich sporting culture, creating infrastructure that not only serves immediate needs but also inspires the next generation. The careful allocation of these funds demonstrates an understanding of sport as a powerful socio-economic tool with the capability to unite and invigorate diverse communities.

CONTRACT RENEWAL

Canadian Grand Prix Secures Four-Year Extension to Host F1 Until 2035

The Canadian Grand Prix will continue to grace the Formula One calendar until 2035, following a four-year contract extension that also solidifies a long-term media rights partnership with Bell Media. As Formula One marks its 75th anniversary, this agreement reinforces the Canadian event's historic significance and the promoter's commitment to modernise the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, ensuring its place in a fiercely competitive landscape.

Strategically, Formula One's expansion beyond its European roots is evident as new markets like Thailand prepare for potential race hosting. The shift aims to accommodate global demands and diversify the calendar. Moreover, starting in 2026, the Canadian Grand Prix will move from its typical June slot to May, demonstrating Formula One's intent to optimise its schedule, though it does pose a timing challenge with the Indianapolis 500. This renewal highlights Formula One's long-term vision and the shared enthusiasm for continued growth in North America, showcasing confidence in the sport's evolving future.

ESPORTS INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

2025 EsportsTravel Summit Highlights Opportunities and Challenges in Esports Industry

The 2025 EsportsTravel Summit in Bloomington focused on the evolving landscape of the esports industry, offering insightful discussions on its growth and challenges. Experts like Jaycee Dubyuh, Jake Utities, and Matt Basta highlighted how the industry is recalibrating post-pandemic, with collegiate and amateur esports experiencing notable growth. Strategic development and community-building are pivotal, with events proving beneficial as recruitment and retention tools for educational institutions.

Attendees had access to diverse educational sessions, addressing topics from fan engagement and market insights to hosting multiple championship events. This gathering underscored esports' potential, emphasising the need for innovative revenue strategies and broader geographic promotion to support ongoing industry expansion. With a focus on leveraging esports for community impact and educational opportunities, the summit delivered a forward-thinking perspective on the sector's vibrant future.