A blueprint for the future of professional cycling. Issue 2 (15th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Reeth, Daam; Lagae, Wim
• Is Part Of: Sport, business and management. Volume 8:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 195
• Page End: 210
• Publication Date: 2018-03-15
• Subjects: Business model -- Organizational change -- Sports management -- Tour de France -- Professional road cycling -- Sport governance; Sports -- Management -- Periodicals; Sports -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; 796.06905
• DOI: 10.1108/SBM-02-2017-0010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-678X

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Professional road cycling has the capacity to be a major worldwide spectator sport, but has yet, in the eyes of many, failed to realize its full potential. There is a growing awareness that profound reforms are crucial for the sport's future success. The purpose of this paper is to explore the conditions which the sport must address, and define a new business model for professional road cycling. Design/methodology/approach: The paper uses qualitative data to screen professional road cycling's current business model, and to present a coherent vision on the changes needed to reform the sport. Information was gathered from archival material and from talks with stakeholders. Findings: The paper presents a blueprint for the future of professional cycling. It identifies 6 vital building blocks and 25 specific action points, beginning with the idea that professional road cycling needs a stable business model that produces a valuable core product. Originality/value: Professional road cycling is is conservative by nature and changes are extremely difficult to implement. This contribution presents a glimpse of one possible future for professional cycling, if cycling's policy makers acknowledge the need for profound reforms of the sport and are willing to make the necessary changes.