Residents’ perceptions of the 2010 FIFA World Cup: a case study of a suburb in Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

Sport tourism events have grown in prominence globally. Governments increasingly include these activities into their development and tourism strategies. Notably, there are benefits and costs to hosting sport mega-events. The 2010 FIFA World Cup presents South Africa with tangible and intangible benefits. Communities are one of the most important stakeholders of events. Research investigating residents’ perceptions on impacts of mega-events, especially those residing closest to the event location are limited. This study examined Green Point residents’ perceptions of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the impacts of the Green Point Stadium. The aim was to investigate the level of awareness, perceptions and attitudes of residents’ living within one kilometre of the Stadium using a spatially based stratified random sampling method. Interviewer completed questionnaires were administered and 344 responses from residents recorded. Findings reveal that residents have high levels of awareness about the event but more could be done to improve communication and the dissemination of information by stakeholders. Although, the stadium location was initially contested, the majority of residents favour the chosen site. Residents’ primary concern about South Africa hosting the event relate to crime, safety and security of visitors. Overall, residents have high expectations’ regarding social and economic impacts. Moreover, residents have positive attitudes towards the country hosting the mega-event and most believe that lasting legacies will be left for the nation. The findings encourage stakeholders to promote active community involvement and participation by using all communication methods available to regularly engage with residents to address and alleviate concerns about perceived negative impacts of the event and future events.