Author(s)

Yueyao Liu

Corresponding Author

Yueyao Liu

Abstract

This paper focuses on the mechanism of sports events as a new engine of urban development and explores their coupling path in economic transformation and urban image upgrading. By constructing the analytical framework of “event-driven—industry linkage—image shaping,” it compares the changes in economic structure and the evolution of city brand in different types of cities before and after the introduction of events. The study finds that sports events achieve economic structure optimization and coordinated upgrading of urban image through industry chain extension, stimulation of consumption demand, and amplification effect of media dissemination; government policy guidance, social capital participation, and urban cultural characteristics are key variables affecting the coupling effect. This study provides a theoretical reference for the integration of sports economy and urban renewal, and also offers practical paths for local governments to make decisions on event introduction and brand strategy.

Keywords

Sports Events; Urban Economic Transformation; Urban Image Upgrading; Coupling Mechanism