By Moreen Kathure
Covid-19 has affected all areas of life and sports is no exception. The measures brought in to
limit the spread of the Corona virus, i.e. social distancing has a significant effect on sports since
people can’t gather on stadiums to watch or play.
The sporting calendar has also been affected, with professional leagues around the globe
suspending their activities. The summer Olympics, which is typically one of the world’s most
watched sporting broadcasts, has been pushed back a year.
Corona virus has also affected sports economically. There are three main income streams for
sports leagues: commercial which involves sponsorship and advertising partnerships,
broadcasting i.e. sales of media rights and day revenue (ticketing and hospitality)
According to the UN, the global value of the sports industry is estimated at US dollars 756
billion annually. Therefore, millions of jobs are therefore at risk globally, not only to
professionals but also for those in related retail and sporting services industries connected with
leagues and events, for example travel, tourism, transportation among others.
Corona virus has also affected individuals. Professional athletes have contracted the virus and
hence can’t take part in the sporting events. This has led to the cancellation or postponing of
major sporting events such as the Tokyo Olympic games, the NBA,NFL,MLB,NCAA
championship tournaments and even the little league world
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