This thesis is researched, constructed and presented as a dual thesis between Daniel Kelly and Niko Alapartanen. The familiarity of the sport’s industry, for both authors, was an important factor in choosing to base the project and research on this industry. Again, both also study financial management as part of the Haaga-Helia International Business degree program, also known as GloBBA. The sporting industry has not been given much thought amongst students in Finland, at an academic point of view, which was a catalyst in researching the topic.

The projected and anticipated outcomes of the paper are to determine the overall impact of the sporting industry in the United States and the United Kingdom, in the form of four main factors. It is determined whether there are similarities or discrepancies in this research be-tween the two performing nations and what causes these situations.

Theoretically, the paper comprises two models in which the papers foundation is based on. The main roles of sport model are broken up into the four research factors previously listed. The sports market segment model is also referred to, to obtain further understanding in the mechanics of the industry.

The economic sector and the development and impact of commercialization are the deepest topics of research, while political issues as well as social & health impacts are analyzed also. The paper focuses thoroughly on the professional aspect of the sporting industry, while only having a limited coverage on the amateur and fitness facet of the industry.

Economic measurements are used as the basis for quantitative data as well as case studies and published journals. Incorporating the factual reality and relating them to the sporting industry’s theoretical models are the methods used to derive a conclusive answer to the re-search statement. Factors such as GDP, unemployment/employment, taxation and the multiplier effect are referred to.

Results delivered substantial and interesting findings in regards to both the functionality and impact that the sporting industry has on economic, political and health facets of a nation. It can be established that the driving force behind these results is the rapidly increasing phenomenon of commercialization.