Author(s): Ahmed Mohammed Alamoudi
This paper presents an exploratory case study of the Legacy developed from hosting major sports events with focus on a case study of Tokyo Olympic 2020. Focusing on the planned legacies of two newly constructed stadia, and taking place at an early phase post-event, the research sought primarily to understand the motivations for the projects (in the case of the stadia legacies, the post-event use of the stadia), and how these motivations had influenced the planning and implementation processes. The study used a case study methodology because it was suitable in providing information before, during and after the Olympics Games that influence developing of long-lasting legacies. Interviews were conducted with 100 volunteers, participants and organizers involved in the Tokyo Olympics 2020. A number of significant findings emerged from the study, particularly a theme of conflicts and the ways in which they are dealt with. These conflicts were often rooted in financial constraints and the necessity to cope with dynamic circumstances, and were often seen to result in compromised outcomes compared to initial visions. The study showed that a long-lasting legacy can be developed through focusing on sustainability factors, stakeholder engagement, infrastructural improvement, economic stimulus and effective planning. The study concluded that; the type and influence of stakeholders will have implications on what the resulting legacy of the mega event to the host nation, stakeholders are an important part of any event management process in creating a long-lasting legacy and the main reason to host major vents is to create a good legacy for that country and the stakeholders determine the success or failure of that legacy. As a strategy to reinforce development long-lasting legacies, this study recommends that; the host country should ensure effective communication and collaboration of all stakeholders including volunteers, the host nation should ensure they provide incentives and benefits to volunteers to encourage their great participation in future events and a thorough evaluation and monitoring of stakeholder engagement efforts to support the development of long-lasting legacies through effective stakeholder engagement strategies