Riding the Waves of Change: Impact of Innovation on the Structure of the Global Sports Industry

Abstract

This paper uses an Institutional theory perspective to examine how several innovations in the Global Sports industry are both expanding the market for its products and services as well as setting the stage for structural changes across the entire industry. First, three illustrative innovations that have capitalized on developments outside of the industry are described. Then, a discussion of the organization and conduct of the 2018 FIFA World Cup football tournament reveals their impact on competitive forces within the industry, in particular, and potentially the future structure of the industry, in general.