Band 5+: Hosting a major sporting event such as the Olympics or the football world cup offers significant benefits to the country concerned, yet the cost involved can be excessive and may divert funds from other important areas. What are the benefits of being a host, and do these outweigh the financial implications?

It is often considered that countries hosting major sporting events like the Olympics and World Cup matches experience numerous advantages. However, the downside of allocating the budget to these events instead of essential areas is a matter of concern. The writer of this essay believes that hosting these games attracts many tourists and creates several job opportunities for the locals, which outweighs the financial repercussions.

It is undeniable that when a country hosts these events a number of travelers flock to these nations. This immigration gives a significant boast to the countries economy especially the tourism industry. The locals employed in the hospitality services receive notable benefits during this period. Additionally, the construction sector also witnesses a significant growth and offers remarkable employment opportunities for the residents. This means citizens have more money in their hand to spend that drives the economy on an increasing trend. As an exemplification, in 2020, when Japan hosted the Olympics the country’s overall economy escalated by 15% in that financial year.

On the opposite side, it is also argued that diverting funds from important areas serves as a detrimental decision. Proponents of this view attest that crucial sectors like education, healthcare are deprived of essential funds however when the countries organize such sporting events the income of the countries rises. As a result the expending capacity of the nation escalates and more funds are channeled to the these vital sectors making the infrastructure and the services more contemporary. For instance, according to a report published in New York Times a leading national daily in the USA, the proportion of the improved educational and healthcare facilities in USA shot up by a staggering 8% after the country hosted Football World cup in 2010.

In conclusion, the benefits of new job opportunities and increased economic growth significantly surpasses the financial implications which these sporting events bring to the host nations.