Brinca, PedroCaracciolo, Diana Giulia Greta2025-05-092025-05-092023-06-012023-05-15http://hdl.handle.net/10362/182930This study explores the potential of watersports to drive sustainable development in coastal regions through the deployment of international sports events. With limited research on how to leverage such events to address environmental challenges, this study employs exploratory research methods to analyze the economic opportunities created by watersports and how they can incentivize coastal communities to protect their marine environment. The findings suggest that hosting international sports events can accelerate these opportunities, and provide guidance for long-term strategies to create lasting legacies. While further quantitative data is necessary, this research underscores the potential of sports as catalysts for sustainable development.engOcean conservationInternational sport eventsLocal developmentSustainabilityStrategySustainable governanceWatersportsEvent managementEvent proposalEvent legacymaster thesis203365879