A professional Maltese cycling team and the hosting of a large cycling event in Malta : an investigation into issues arising

Abstract

Various aspects of a professional Maltese cycling team and the hosting of a major cycling event in Malta are investigated in this study using an interpretivist philosophy and an iterative approach to reviewing available literature and conducting interviews with persons with relevant knowledge and expertise, including representatives of Malta Tourism Authority; Malta Cycling Federation, Mosta Cycling Club and BPC International, a marketing and advertising enterprise. These, and other key stakeholders are interviewed and consulted, using an interpretivist approach, to build grounded theory; significant facts emerge and are included in an ongoing practical discussion of the issues, with key recommendations listed at the end. This research shows how awareness of Malta as ‘s un and culture’ tourist destination and in the active tourism niche can be significantly raised with the hosting of the Giro d’Italia Grande Partenza and further activated through a professional cycling team referencing Malta in their title name. Many other positive outcomes for Maltese communities can also be attained with careful planning and execution of such cycling-related initiatives.

This academic study should be used as the basis of an in-depth feasibility study into hosting of a stage or, stages of the Giro d’Italia in Malta and should also act as a starting point for promoters initiating and developing a professional cycling team representing Malta.