A LARGE-SPORT EVENT AND ITS INFLUENCE ON TOURISM DESTINATION IMAGE IN INDONESIA

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to explore the perception of local society regarding the government’s hosting of a large-sport event such as the MotoGP in Indonesia, using social exchange theory such as economic, social, cultural, and environmental aspects to support tourism development and destination image. Design/methodology – This study provides the locals’ perception of the large-sport events of MotoGP Indonesia in 2022 using a quantitative approach through Structural Equation ModelPartial Least Square (SEM-PLS). Findings – The results indicate that economic, social, and cultural perceptions significantly support tourism development and destination image in Indonesia. However, environmental perceptions were not significant and did not support the hypothesis that they support tourism development. Therefore, it can be concluded that this significant event can contribute to the development of tourism and destination image in Indonesia. Originality of the research – To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the mega sporting event and tourism destination using multiple indicators, such as economic, social, cultural, and environmental. In addition, this is the first study to examine the host perception of the MotoGP mega sporting event in Indonesia.