This thesis explores the complex relationship between sporting events and tourism, with a particular focus on global sporting mega-events such as the FIFA World Cup. The work is motivated by the need for a deeper understanding of how such events affect the tourist flows of the destinations that organize them. Considering the increasing interest of states and cities in hosting such events, it is important to analyze the real effects they have on tourism. Specifically, the research uses the example of the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 to show how such events shape tourism patterns locally and globally. It has been established that sports events, such as the World Cup in football, have a significant and multiple impact on tourism and the socio-economic development of the host countries. Analyzing the case of the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, the paper showed how such events can generate significant economic benefits, including an increase in the number of tourists, consumption, employment and investment in local infrastructure. The example of Qatar illustrates how large investments in infrastructure, such as the construction of new stadiums, hotels and transport systems, contributed not only to the successful organization of the tournament, but also to the long-term improvement of the tourist offer and economic growth of the country. In addition to the economic effects, the paper highlighted the social and cultural aspects of sports events. The World Cup served as a platform to promote national pride, cultural exchange and Qatar's international image. Cultural events organized in conjunction with the championship have improved the perception of Qatar as a tourist destination, while numerous environmental initiatives have set new standards for sustainable tourism. Qualitative effects, such as social cohesion and strengthening of the local community, are also significant, showing that proper planning and management of sports events can bring long-term benefits to the society and economy of the host country.