Manuel Gavira, the second vice president of the Junta de Andalucía and the councillor for Tourism, Justice, Deregulation and Local Administration, attended the final event of the 2026 Superbike World Championship at the Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto this weekend. During his visit, he underscored the role of major sporting events as drivers of economic activity, job creation, and tourism promotion.
Gavira acknowledged Jerez's international recognition as a motor racing hub, noting that "more than 300,000 people visited this Circuito de Jerez" for various competitions last year, with "millions of viewers worldwide" following the events. He emphasised Andalucía's organisational capacity to host significant events, stating that occasions like the Superbike World Championship final "activate the entire province and create wealth, opportunities, and a promising future."
He also highlighted the employment generated by this sector, recalling his own experience working at the circuit while studying Law at the University of Cádiz. Gavira stressed the importance of collaboration among all institutions, insisting that "the Government of Spain must get involved" alongside the Jerez City Council and the Junta de Andalucía to maximise benefits for the province.
A report by the Tourism and Sport Department of Andalucía estimates that the event will generate a tourist expenditure of €9.8 million from visitors outside the region, based on extrapolated data from the 2026 MotoGP Grand Prix. This figure is complemented by over €3.8 million in spending related to workers and event organisation.
The Jerez event attracted an audience of 7.2 million viewers in 2025, according to Nielsen, and was broadcast on more than thirty channels across nearly one hundred countries worldwide. This exposure enhances Andalucía's visibility as an international tourist and sporting destination.
In 2026, the Andalucía brand will be associated with the championship, promoting the region's image through advertising at the circuit, digital initiatives, and international television presence. Gavira concluded by stating that such events also showcase the gastronomy, heritage, culture, and overall tourist offerings of Jerez, the province of Cádiz, and Andalucía. "We want tourism that generates opportunities, economic activity, and jobs," he said.
