ABSTRACT

This book cuts through the jargon and complicated formulae to focus on the key concepts in sports economics, introducing the fundamentals in a concise and engaging way to give the reader without a background in economics the tools with which to read and apply sports economics in their work. 

Full of real-world cases and stories, the book offers a short economic history of sport and explains the economic foundations of the world of sport today, from local leagues to mega-events. Covering both amateur and professional sports, it explores and explains the most important issues in contemporary sports economics, from player transfer markets and the rise of women’s sports to the spending behaviour of fans and the growing shadow of corruption. 

A fascinating read for any student, researcher or practitioner working in sport, or for the general reader who wants to understand the background to many of the most important stories in sport today, this is the only book on sports economics that you will ever need.

chapter 1|7 pages

The Sports Business Is Different

chapter 2|7 pages

Our Tool Kit

Theory, Concepts, and Numbers

chapter 3|10 pages

Commodification

Has Money Ruined Sport?

chapter 6|9 pages

Sportswomen and Gender Economics

chapter 7|10 pages

Attendances and Audiences

chapter 8|9 pages

Seeking Profit or Utility

Objectives of Owners and Entrepreneurs

chapter 9|13 pages

Tournaments and Leagues

chapter 10|10 pages

Sponsorship, Stadiums, and Subsidies

chapter 11|8 pages

The Economics of Sport Mega-Events

chapter 12|9 pages

The Global Sports Economy

Trading Goods, Player Migration, and International Organisations

chapter 15|9 pages

The Virus and After

Coping with Crisis