In the fast-paced realm of professional sports, travel is not only a logistical necessity; it is a critical component of team and club success, meeting media and sponsor commitments, and fulfilling fixtures for tournament competitions. From coordinating squad travel to organising bespoke accommodations for high-net-worth individuals and partners, the way teams manage their travel plans can significantly impact safety, athletic performance, and overall travel experience.
The following guidance can help professional sports organisations improve their travel management strategies, enhance safety and performance, and deliver more streamlined, positive travel experiences.
Strengthening strategic travel planning
Whether for a domestic match or an international tournament, the logistics of transporting players, coaching staff, and support personnel safely and efficiently can be complex. To develop more effective and strategic travel planning, professional sports organisations should consider the following:
- Prioritising a safety-first mindset: Ensuring the safety of players and staff is paramount. This includes conducting thorough risk assessments of travel routes, accommodations, and local conditions to mitigate potential hazards.
- Tailoring travel itineraries: Each team has unique requirements. Customised itineraries that consider time zones, travel fatigue, and player preferences can enhance performance and morale.
- Focusing on health and wellbeing: With an increasing emphasis on player mental and physical health, teams should arrange travel that allows for adequate rest and recovery. This might include charter flights, direct routes, and access to fitness and recovery facilities upon arrival.
- Developing specific plans for the C-suite and chair: For high-net-worth individuals, travel must be seamless and secure. This often involves private jets, luxury accommodation, security staff and dedicated travel managers to oversee every detail.
Engaging high-net-worth clientele
High-net-worth individuals, including team owners and sponsors, often require bespoke travel solutions that reflect their status and lifestyle. Here are some key considerations for strategic travel planning for this audience:
- Luxury travel options: From private jets to five-star hotels, high-net-worth clients often expect a certain standard of travel and accommodation. Offering exclusive packages that include VIP experiences can enhance their travel experience.
- Personalised services: Providing dedicated concierge services that cater to individual preferences — including dietary requirements, entertainment options, and security needs — can create a more tailored and satisfactory experience to high-net-worth individuals.
- Understanding of unique risk factors: High-net-worth clients often face unique risks while travelling. Comprehensive risk management strategies, paired with effective insurance solutions that cover travel disruptions, personal safety, and asset protection, are essential.
- Players’ family: If players have family members traveling with them, it is important to also recognise their needs and deliver high quality service and support. Part of doing so is ensuring you have enough staff and time to provide the best experience for players’ family members.
Key questions for professional sports organisations
To ensure that travel strategies are effective and comprehensive, professional sports organisations should evaluate their most urgent risk management needs as well as the travel protections they may already have in place. The following key questions can help guide this assessment:
- What specific needs and preferences do our players and staff have regarding travel?
- How do we assess and mitigate risks associated with travel, including health, safety, and security concerns?
- Are our travel itineraries optimised for performance, considering factors like time zones and recovery periods?
- What measures do we have in place to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of high-net-worth clients and executives during travel?
- How can we leverage technology and data to enhance our travel planning and management processes?
- What crisis and contingency policies do we have in place?
As the landscape of professional sports continues to evolve, so do the challenges and opportunities associated with travel. Whether you are a member of a sports team, an executive, or a high-net-worth individual, having a robust travel strategy is crucial.
At Marsh, we specialise in providing tailored risk management solutions that address the unique needs of the sports industry. Our advisors can help you navigate the complexities of travel, ensuring that you and your team can focus on what matters most: performing at your best.
Ready to elevate your travel strategy? Speak to your Marsh advisor today and discover how we can support your journey in the world of professional sports.