Production Passport Newsletter |⚽️ Trump Travel Ban - What It Means For Global Sports

Today’s Top Pick 🔎

On the Ground Next Week: Hosts & Federations Summit (Lausanne) 🎥⚽️

Next week (16–19 June), ClickZ’s Head of Sports Coverage, Noah Gershon, will be reporting live from the Hosts & Federations Summit in Lausanne.

This leading forum will explore how cutting-edge tech, production workflows and digital fan experiences are reshaping sports coverage and commercial strategy. Noah will be tracking key trends across:

• ✅ Media rights & monetisation

• ✅ Sponsor activation & ROI

• ✅ AR/VR & digital fan engagement

• ✅ Scalable IP-based production

• ✅ Governance & leadership shifts

Heading to Lausanne? Connect with Noah on LinkedIn, email him at [email protected], or say hello between sessions at the Olympic Museum.

Sector Spotlight 🌟

SPORT REGULATIONS

Impact of Trump's Travel Ban on Upcoming World Cup and Olympics

The United States' new travel ban, issued by President Donald Trump, presents potential challenges for upcoming global sporting events like the 2026 Fifa World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games. Despite placing full restrictions on the entry of citizens from 12 countries and partial constraints on seven others, exemptions exist for participants in these major events. This inclusion is thanks to special consideration given by the federal government, ensuring athletes' access to the country. However, ambiguity remains around which events qualify as "major," leaving uncertainties for other sports competitions and non-participant fans from affected regions, potentially affecting broader attendance and participation dynamics.

Organisers of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics express confidence in managing these challenges, thanks to assurances from the federal government. Nevertheless, questions persist regarding athletes from barred countries working in the U.S., such as those in Major League Sports. Moreover, there is no exemption for fans from restricted countries, raising fairness concerns due to an uneven competitive landscape where some teams might lack local support. The situation underscores the need for further clarification to ensure a seamless integration of international sports on American soil without hindrance.

LUXURY TRAVEL STRATEGY

Tennis Drives Global Luxury Tourism Across US, Canada, Japan, China, Switzerland, Spain, UK

Tennis has emerged as a key player in transforming luxury travel, with countries like the US, Canada, Japan, China, Switzerland, Spain, and the UK harnessing the sport's allure to boost tourism. Wealthy travellers are increasingly being drawn to prestigious tournaments, which are redefining the travel industry by fusing sports with high-end hospitality and cultural experiences. This trend is not just about spectating; it's about immersing oneself in the luxury associated with global tennis events.

Cities hosting significant tournaments are capitalising on this trend, offering bespoke travel packages that integrate courtside access with luxury accommodation and exclusive experiences. Consequently, this synergy among airlines, hotels, and tourism boards is forging a new paradigm in global tourism, marked by elevated economic impact and increased prestige. Tennis, now a cornerstone of luxury travel, is not just influencing tourism patterns but actively constructing unique cultural narratives around events worldwide.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

Hilton and McLaren Unveil Fan Experience Suite for British Grand Prix Fans

Hilton and McLaren Racing have unveiled the "Stay Like McLaren Racing" suite to commemorate their 20-year collaboration, set to enthral fans during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Available at the Trafalgar St. James London, this exclusive offering runs from 8th to 20th July. Guests will be treated to a multi-sensory experience, marked by McLaren F1 memorabilia, racing simulators, a virtual pit wall, and daily smoothie servings delivered to their room. This innovative fan experience epitomises the partnership's commitment to creating vibrant, memorable engagements.

Fans can secure a stay in this limited-edition suite by booking directly or bidding with Hilton Honors points for additional McLaren experiences. Additionally, Hilton and McLaren will host several fan-centric activities in London, including a Silverstone Rooftop Experience and a McLaren-themed dining pop-up. According to Mark Weinstein, Hilton's CMO, these initiatives highlight the fruitful collaboration with McLaren, offering unique engagement opportunities while enhancing the racing community's experience, both on and off the track.

TOURISM GROWTH

Middle East Tourism Spending to Reach 350bn by 2030 Amid Travel Boom

The Middle East's tourism sector anticipates an impressive 50% surge by 2030, reaching $350bn, as detailed in the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025. This growth is largely attributed to booming sectors such as luxury travel, business events, and sports tourism. Major factors contributing to this remarkable rebound include ambitious national visions and enhanced air connectivity, with airlines like Emirates and Etihad expanding their fleets substantially.

Inbound travel is expected to rise by 13% annually, driven by key markets such as India, the UK, and China, with the latter's leisure spending predicted to grow by 130%. The region's potential as a global leisure hub is spotlighted, with business travel growing at 1.5 times the global average and luxury experiences attracting nearly 60% of visitors. Additionally, sports tourism is projected to rise by 63%, fuelled by events like the 2034 FIFA World Cup, affirming the Middle East's status as a dynamic tourism leader.