Engaging in some of the world’s most expensive sports requires significant investments that could reach millions annually.
The stakes are not the only things high in the realm of the world’s most expensive sports. These encompass the training, equipment, and exclusive membership which can reach millions of dollars yearly. This alludes to the status and prestige of these sports which attract the interest of the elite. The financial demands match the physical dedication that athletes and enthusiasts put in the athletic pursuit of these games. In this feature, we explore the reason behind the high costs and the unique challenges that athletes and enthusiasts face.
Here are four of the world’s most expensive sports.
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Fencing
Fencing is a combat sport where players do sword-fighting. It involves three disciplines: the foil, the épée, and the saber. It is considered as some of the world’s most expensive sports due to the significant costs associated with it.
Aspiring fencers will need to invest in equipment, which may cost up to $400 alone; group and private lessons; coaching; joining clubs; and traveling for competitions, among other expenses and fees.
It is a financially-demanding sport, but to determined enthusiasts, it will be worthwhile. Fencing poses benefits like mental agility, physical fitness, and opportunities for personal growth and achievement.
Polo
Have you ever heard about the sport of kings? That’s polo, a fast-paced horseback sport where teams of four players utilize mallets to hit a ball into the goal of the opposing team. The sport combines horsemanship, playing with balls skillfully, and strategy.
According to a report from South China Morning Post, the sport is associated with wealth, class, and nobility. It originated from the elites of Persia and spread throughout Arabia, Tibet, Japan, China, India, and eventually, the United Kingdom.
The Glion Institute of Higher Education explained that polo is among the world’s most expensive sports due to the costs of maintaining the number of horses or polo ponies. There are also associated fees for breeding, buying, training, grooming, and keeping them fit to play. There are also corresponding sums to pay trainers. Equipment alone can reach as much as $10,000.
Equestrians, celebrities, high society personalities, and even the British royals still show interest in the sport despite the costs.
Sailing
Sailing is another sport requiring a significant amount of investment. It involves moving a boat by using the power of the wind as per Topend Sports. Boat types such as large yachts and dinghy racers are usually used for sailing competitions. It is open to people of all ages and almost any fitness level.
There are different types of races, like fleet racing, which includes at least four boats; match racing, which is two boats competing against each other; and team racing. Topend Sports also mentioned that some events include hundreds of participants.
Sailing is an expensive sport as one will need a boat, plus, the upkeep and additional equipment are costly. But, exorbitant as it may be, it improves fitness, mental skills, increases agility and concentration, and expands organizational and communication skills. Not to mention, playing this game can also be fun for boating enthusiasts, which can lower their stress levels.
Formula 1 Racing
Formula 1 or F1 racing is considered to be among the world’s most expensive sports in the world due to the nature of the games and the equipment players need. Since this is racing, an F1 car is needed, which can reach millions of dollars, reports The Sports Economist.
Amazon Science mentioned that F1 cars are the fastest regulated road-course racing vehicles globally. They are faster by 12 to 18 miles per hour than most renowned sports cars but they can turn into corners up to five times quicker thanks to the powerful aerodynamic downforce they create. This force works like airplane wings but instead of flying, it pushes the car down onto the track to improve grip and stability.
Prestige Online reported that a car for F1 racing will need the best parts available in the market. This includes top-grade fuel, which may reach $500,000 per season. All in all, it is possible that an F1 racer may shell out approximately $12.2 million dollars.
An F1 player needs immense focus and strong mental discipline to engage in races. They also have to be able to practice good decision-making, resilience, confidence, and motivation, apart from having the technical and engineering skills to set up their cars for success.
Banner photo from Adriaane Greyling via Pexels.
