Published on
January 13, 2026
Torremolinos, a well-liked beach resort in the southern part of Spain, has experienced an incredible increase in sports tourism, with the industry reporting a growth in 2025 compared to last year. This significant hike, which has raised the sports tourism revenue of the town to more than four million euros, is an indicator of the increasing attraction of Torremolinos as a sports venue. The sports tourism increase has resulted in the town receiving a lot of economic benefits and has, therefore, established the town as an international sports teams and events center.
According to official figures from the Torremolinos Town Hall, the economic impact of sports tourism in the area reached an impressive 4,137,840 euros in 2025, a substantial rise from the 2,213,834 euros generated in 2024. This surge can be attributed to various factors, including the town’s strategic investment in sports infrastructure and its growing reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events and teams.
The Rising Popularity of Torremolinos’ Sports Facilities
One of the key drivers behind this boom has been the rise in the number of foreign teams using Torremolinos’ municipal sports facilities. The number of international teams visiting the town increased by 24 percent in 2025, with a total of 277 teams from across Europe choosing Torremolinos as their training base. These teams, which primarily participate in swimming, football, and multi-sport events, have significantly contributed to the town’s tourism sector.
The town’s sports facilities, including its popular Virgen del Carmen III swimming pool, have played a crucial role in attracting these teams. The rental income generated from these facilities surged by 45 percent in 2025, reaching 344,651 euros, highlighting the growing demand for high-quality sports venues. Torremolinos has invested in ensuring that these facilities remain in top condition, with ongoing efforts to refurbish and expand them to meet the needs of athletes and visitors alike.
A Boost for Local Businesses
The economic benefits of the sports tourism boom are not just limited to the sports sector but extend across the local economy. With the rise in the number of international visitors, local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and service industries, have seen a significant increase in demand. Hotels, restaurants, and other service providers have all benefited from the increase in the number of tourists visiting Torremolinos to participate in or watch sporting events.
This growing influx of international teams has helped Torremolinos establish itself as a key destination for sports tourism, alongside its traditional sun and beach offerings. Local businesses, including hotels, transport companies, and retailers, have capitalised on the steady flow of visitors, further boosting the town’s economy.
Diverse Sports Offering and Grassroots Support
Torremolinos’ commitment to sports is not only reflected in its international appeal but also in its strong focus on grassroots initiatives. In 2025, the town hosted a number of recreational and sports days aimed at encouraging children and young people to get involved in sports. Over 6,600 pupils from local schools and neighbouring municipalities participated in these events, which were designed to promote physical activity and help foster a love for sport among the younger generation.
The local sports scene is further supported by the town’s 19 sports clubs, which involve over 2,500 athletes in various disciplines. These clubs are essential to maintaining the town’s reputation as a thriving sports destination and contribute to the vibrant sports culture that has become a defining characteristic of Torremolinos.
Record Participation and Increased Engagement
Torremolinos also saw record participation in its sports facilities in 2025. Over 16,000 people were registered with the sports department, with more than 9,400 individuals regularly using the municipal facilities. These users included both monthly subscribers and participants in instructor-led classes. The town’s sports offering, which includes fitness, swimming, and various team sports, continues to attract a diverse range of residents and tourists, with many opting for occasional access through day tickets and multi-use passes.
Supporting Events and Infrastructure Development
In addition to its growing sports infrastructure, Torremolinos hosts over 60 sporting events throughout the year. These events, which include the renowned half marathon, indoor triathlon, and cross-country races, attract large crowds and contribute significantly to the local economy. Torremolinos is continually expanding its sports offering to keep up with the rising demand, with the local council investing in the construction and renovation of new sports facilities.
A Bright Future for Torremolinos’ Sports Tourism
The record-breaking growth in Torremolinos’ sports tourism in 2025 is a testament to the town’s commitment to developing a diverse, high-quality tourism offering. The town’s strategic investments in sports infrastructure, combined with its rich sporting culture and reputation as an international sporting destination, ensure that Torremolinos will continue to attract sports tourists from across Europe and beyond in the years to come.
Sports councillor Ramón Alcaide commented that 2025 was a historic year for sports in Torremolinos, reflecting the town’s dedication to diversifying its tourism sector. He emphasised that the success of the sports tourism sector not only benefits the local economy but also helps to strengthen Torremolinos’ position as a top-tier destination for both leisure and sports tourism.
Final Thoughts
Torremolinos has become a top spot in the sports tourism market due to its remarkable growth, not only for the sports teams but also for the fans and general tourists. The town’s investment in first-rate (world-class) sports facilities, along with its strong concern for youth sports and the organization of major sports events, has established Torremolinos as an active center for sports tourism in Spain. The sports tourism industry in the town will thus continue to add to the local economy, making sure that the town will remain a colorful and inviting place for sports tourism.
