Reviews on the digital supply chain (DSC) agree that DSC is more than IT adoption: it rearchitects processes around data to improve stability, agility and efficiency, with common building blocks such as end-to-end visibility, advanced analytics and platform integration (Ferdinand & Kitchin, 2016; Tan & Sidhu, 2022). Yet definitions and scopes vary, and few studies tailor DSC concepts to event-type, temporary logistics systems like sports events.

Within the domain of the digitalisation, digital twins emerge as a unifying capability to couple near-real-time data with simulation for decision support and resilience (e.g. disruption response, capacity rebalancing) (Liu et al., 2023; Qi et al., 2025). Recent reviews show growing evidence that twins enhance visibility and agility, but applications remain concentrated in manufacturing and generalised SC cases; domain-specific designs for sports logistics are largely absent.

On the sustainability side, sport generates material flows and footprints that are non-trivial at the mega-event scale. Empirical work around recent Games and MSEs shows both improvements (venue reuse, material choices) and stubborn hotspots – spectator travel emissions dominating totals – underscoring the need for integrated logistics interventions rather than isolated initiatives.

A parallel stream addresses the circular economy (CE) for sports goods and event assets. Studies indicate user preference and feasibility for durability or repairability in outdoor gear and stress collaboration across actors to scale circular models; however, these insights rarely translate into operational logistics rules (inventory, reverse flows, refurbishment capacity) for sports events.

Digital traceability technologies (e.g. blockchain and IoT) are being piloted in sports contexts (ticketing, equipment tracking, sponsorship assets), but the literature still fragments along technology lines and does not unify traceability with green logistics targets (carbon, waste, reuse) in one decision framework.

The continuous operation of sports facilities – such as stadiums, sports halls and training centres – requires a long-term logistics strategy (Tadić et al. 2025). Facility logistics encompasses the maintenance of buildings, energy management, transportation and parking infrastructure, as well as the continuous availability of various assets, including sports equipment, lighting systems and security devices. The objective of equipment management is to ensure the optimal availability of necessary physical assets.

The production, warehousing and distribution of sports equipment (e.g. clothing, shoes, balls, protective gear) represent one of the most extensive areas within sports logistics (Cong et al. 2024). Globally operating sports manufacturers (such as Nike, Adidas and Decathlon) manage complex supply chains involving raw material suppliers, regional distribution centres and local retailers (Jhanji Dhir 2025). Demand for sports equipment is highly seasonal and event dependent, making inventory strategy a critical element. As visualised above, the supply chain of sports equipment is a multifaceted system that directly ties into the SSLS framework. Through digital tracking, circular equipment management and sustainable sourcing, this supply chain becomes a key domain for implementing environmentally conscious logistics practices. Figure 1 illustrates the typical structure of a sports logistics supply chain, including the main stages from manufacturer to event venue, followed by reuse.

This model highlights the linear and circular flows within the SSLS framework. Products are distributed through retailers to venues, where, instead of disposal, reuse loops are introduced to support circular logistics practices and reduce environmental impact.

The outline of the sports logistics model presents the key sustainability and digital components that contribute to the system’s efficiency and flexibility. At the core of the model are integration, traceability and resource optimisation.

The supply chain of sports equipment is closely linked to the commercial export sectors of health, pharmaceuticals, education, culture and sports (Wang & Liang 2024), as these tools directly support a healthy lifestyle, prevention and education. The efficiency of the supply chain affects the availability of sports goods in schools, healthcare institutions and recreational urban spaces, thereby influencing the widespread adoption of physical activity across society. The quality and accessibility of sports articles indirectly impact public health and help ease the burden on healthcare systems. In global trade, sports equipment holds not only economic but also cultural and educational value (Cecere 2025), being part of the infrastructure needed for an active lifestyle. The uninterrupted functioning of supply chains is a prerequisite for the stability of the sports economy and the strengthening of social well-being; thus, their comprehensive analysis is of great importance from a multidisciplinary perspective.

Taking a comparative international perspective, commercial exports in the sectors of health, pharmaceuticals, education, culture and sports appear at varying levels across Central and Eastern European countries (Dettenhofer et al. 2019). Among Croatia, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia, Slovenia records the highest level of commercial export, showing significant growth in 2023 and 2024. Hungary ranks third in this comparison, while Croatia and Slovakia lag.

Analysing the trends of 2023 and 2024, only Slovenia indicates notable development, while the indicators for the other countries remain like the previous year or show only minor growth.

Figure 2 illustrates the export performance of five Central and Eastern European countries (Slovenia, Hungary, Poland, Croatia and Slovakia) in the fields of sports, culture, health and education between 2023 and 2024. It is clearly visible that Slovenia shows an upward trend, while the other countries display rather stagnant patterns (Dettenhofer et al. 2019).

Demand for sports equipment often surges suddenly ahead of seasonal events, placing increased pressure on all stages of the supply chain (Ray 2023). Therefore, predictive inventory planning and the establishment of a responsive distribution network are essential, particularly in markets where demand is highly seasonal. The availability of sports logistics tools is closely linked to the level of development in national healthcare, education and cultural systems (Wu 2024). The following Table 1 provides an overview of the export activity of Central and Eastern European countries.

Having examined the main areas of sports logistics, the next section introduces the methodology used to explore and conceptualise the SSLS.

The search was conducted across four major academic databases known for peer-reviewed content: Scopus, ScienceDirect (Elsevier), SpringerLink and MDPI. These platforms were selected because they comprehensively cover transport, logistics and sustainability disciplines.

The search strings were developed iteratively, combining thematic and Boolean keywords: (‘sports logistics’ OR ‘event logistics’) AND (‘sustainability’ OR ‘green logistics’ OR ‘circular economy’) AND (‘digital’ OR ‘digitalization’ OR ‘digital twin’ OR ‘blockchain’ OR ‘IoT’).

The time frame was limited to 2014–2024, ensuring coverage of the most recent decade of research. Only English-language, peer-reviewed journal articles were included.

The initial query returned 162 publications. After removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts for relevance, 84 articles remained.

A full-text review was then conducted, applying the following inclusion criteria:

Exclusion criteria:

After applying these filters, 41 articles met the inclusion criteria. A secondary cross-check for methodological rigour and thematic alignment reduced the final sample to 24 core articles, which formed the analytical basis of this study.

The selected articles were coded and categorised along three analytical dimensions:

A matrix synthesis was performed to identify intersections between sustainability and digital dimensions.

Recurrent concepts across studies were then consolidated into the four pillars of the SSLS framework:

The process is illustrated in a PRISMA-style flow summary: Records identified (n = 162) → screened (n = 84) → eligible (n = 41) → included in synthesis (n = 24).

This structured approach ensures replicability and academic transparency in developing the conceptual SSLS model. Sports tourism – whether involving spectators attending international competitions or amateur athletes – requires substantial logistical coordination (Kennelly & Toohey 2014). Digital solutions such as mobile applications, online ticket purchasing, route planning, accommodation booking and integration of public transportation systems ease travel logistics (Garritsen, Grigolon & Geurs 2025). Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered travel planning tools help determine the most optimal routes while taking sustainability criteria into account. The impact of digital tools on the vulnerability points of sports logistics is illustrated in Figure 3.

This figure illustrates the differences between traditional and modern sports logistics systems. The classical model is characterised by a linear and manual approach, whereas the modern system incorporates digitally supported, integrated and sustainability-oriented processes. Supply chain risk mitigation strategies are used to keep the effects of disruptions from stopping the continuity of various flows (Nel 2024).

Following the overview of digital tools and technological advancements, it is appropriate to present a comprehensive model that integrates the elements of sustainability and technology discussed thus far. After reviewing the technological advancements in sports logistics, the study proposes an integrated model that combines sustainability and digital innovation, the SSLS.

Having explored the technological background, the article now shifts to presenting the core findings and theoretical contributions.

This study did not involve human or animal participants. Therefore, no ethical clearance was required. The research relied exclusively on secondary sources from publicly accessible academic literature and databases.

Sports activities and events increasingly require robust logistical support, including infrastructure provisioning, equipment management and international transportation processes. The intersection of sport and logistics is especially relevant in the era of sustainability efforts and digital development (Irajifar et al. 2023).

Globalisation in the sports sector and the increasing international nature of competitive sports pose new logistical challenges. Short transition times between events held at geographically distant locations, the fast and safe transportation of athletes and their equipment and the demands of media coverage all require high-level logistical coordination (Herold et al. 2019). At the same time, the digitalisation of logistics systems enables the sports industry to operate more sustainably and efficiently while reducing its ecological footprint and enhancing supply chain resilience.

Operating sports facilities – such as lighting, heating, cooling and water systems – requires substantial energy consumption (Elnour et al. 2022). In pursuit of sustainability, an increasing number of facilities are adopting energy-saving technologies, solar panels, smart control systems and energy-efficient transport equipment. Preventive control and digital monitoring assist public institutions in improving resource efficiency (Klein, Lubinga & Masiya 2024). Digital technologies – such as smart sensors and data-driven control systems – allow for optimisation of energy use and waste reduction (Ullah et al. 2025).

Based on the reviewed literature, the study developed the SSLS framework to integrate sustainability and digitalisation into one unified model. The theoretical logic of the SSLS follows an Input–Process–Output (IPO) structure (Figure 4):

Together, these pillars describe a system where digital and environmental strategies mutually reinforce one another to improve logistics efficiency and reduce ecological impact. The model covers the full spectrum of the supply chain within the sports industry – from event planning and execution to post-event sustainability evaluation – and is illustrated in Figure 4.

The SSLS model, once defined, can be translated into practice through concrete applications, as the following section will illustrate with real-world examples and development points.

The sustainable development of sports logistics is no longer merely an option but a necessity. Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations should support this transition. Firstly, it is essential to encourage technological innovation in logistics systems to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, sustainability considerations should be integrated directly into the planning and design phases of logistics operations. In addition, launching targeted training programs can enhance professional awareness and capabilities in sustainable logistics practices. Secondly, forming strategic partnerships between logistics providers, sports organisations and public institutions can foster collaborative approaches that support long-term sustainability goals.

This study makes a significant contribution to the emerging field of sustainable sports logistics by bridging the theoretical gap between sustainability principles and digital transformation strategies. The proposed SSLS model integrates CE practices, digital technologies and resilience concepts into a unified framework tailored to the unique logistical demands of the sports industry. By conceptualising this integrated model, the study advances existing knowledge in supply chain management, environmental logistics and sports event operations. It provides a structured foundation for the development of greener and more adaptive logistics systems, particularly in the context of large-scale international sporting events.

In practical terms, the SSLS framework offers guidance for stakeholders such as sports event organisers, logistics service providers, infrastructure managers and policymakers. It supports decision-making in areas like infrastructure planning, inventory control, transport optimisation and risk management under volatile conditions. Furthermore, the inclusion of a real-world case study (the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest) demonstrates the model’s applicability and provides insights into best practices for future event planning. As such, the study contributes not only to academic discourse but also to practical implementation within the sports logistics ecosystem.

The managerial implications of the SSLS framework emphasise the practical pathways through which sustainability and digitalisation can be embedded in sports-event operations. Implementing the model enables decision-makers to redesign logistics processes based on real-time data, measure carbon and energy efficiency and improve transparency across suppliers and service partners. The four pillars – resource optimisation, low-carbon transport, digital traceability and circular assets serve as operational levers for achieving measurable sustainability targets. For logistics managers, the SSLS offers a diagnostic and planning tool: it translates abstract sustainability objectives into actionable performance indicators, while for policymakers and event organisers, it provides a roadmap for aligning environmental commitments with economic and social goals. By institutionalising these principles, sports organisations can strengthen resilience, reduce costs and build long-term stakeholder trust.