Social perception of the importance, impact and expected benefits of the Mediterranean games to be held in Tarragona in 2017

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the evolution between 2009 and 2010 in the perception of the citizens of Tarragona on the amount of importance, impact, and expected benefits of hosting the Mediterranean Games in Tarragona in 2017. A questionnaire was administered to two random samples of citizens from Tarragona one year apart. The results showed high percentages of people who felt that this sporting event is quite or very im- portant economically, socially and from a sports point of view, as well as with a high local and regional impact, although not as relevant at national and international level. The citizens felt that almost all aspects that influence the development of the city (infrastructure, tourism, economy, employment, sports and sports facilities), as well as political groups, athletes, and the organizing committee would benefit quite a lot from holding the Mediterranean Games in their city. The evolution of perception was also shown negative for most areas surveyed. Lower means and percentages were observed in the categories of ‘quite’ and ‘a lot’ for the 2010 sample. The results of this study are useful for event organizers to develop strategies to improve ownership, participation and identification of citizens with the event.