We often think of sports as cheap, like soccer , running , or light training. But in reality, at the elite level, costs can skyrocket, from tens of millions to billions of rupiah per year. Examples range from polo horses requiring daily grooming, to yachts for competition, to skiing in the Alps at luxury resorts. Each of these sports requires not only equipment but also full support in the form of coaches, facilities, logistics, and even jets. This article will explore the seven most expensive sports in the world, complete with estimated costs and the reasons behind their high prices.
Why Are Some Sports Expensive?
The high cost of elite sports isn't just about equipment; it also involves compromises in quality, prestige, and experiences that aren't accessible to everyone. Equipment like premium polo horses or F1 cars requires specialized breeding, technology, and specialized teams. Membership at elite golf clubs or alpine ski resorts is also exclusive, accessible only for annual fees of tens to hundreds of millions of rupiah. This adds up to the costs of professional coaches , physiotherapists, scientific coaches, and the logistics of transporting these expensive assets. All told, these costs reflect more than just a hobby, but an expensive lifestyle.
Also read: Effective ways to reduce belly fat without needing a gym or equipment
List of the Most Expensive Sports in the World
-
Polo
Polo is often called the sport of the aristocracy, and that's not just rhetoric. A quality polo horse can cost between USD 40,000 and USD 100,000 (approximately IDR 600 million and IDR 1.5 billion). For a single tournament, you'll need at least 4–6 horses, plus groomers, trainers, and the cost of transporting the animals, which are strictly regulated. Add to that the grass arena, which requires intensive 24/7 maintenance, and the annual cost can reach IDR 5–15 billion . Additionally, there's the cost of assistant trainers and additional staff salaries if you use a private venue or take private lessons.
-
Yacht Racing
Imagine owning a competition-class yacht costing USD 10–20 million (approximately IDR 150–300 billion). Beyond the price, you'll also need a professional crew , ship engineers, and docking facilities in elite port cities. Then, don't forget the annual maintenance costs, which can reach USD 3 million per vessel (approximately IDR 45 billion). Add in international transportation, crew training, and competition fees, and the total annual cost of participating in global championships can reach IDR 50–100 billion .
-
Formula 1 (F1)
Formula 1 is the most expensive sport in the world. Racing teams spend between USD 135 and 200 million (approximately IDR 2 and 3 trillion) per season on operations and research alone. This cost does not include costs for technical facilities, global promotion, talent salaries, international logistics, and aerodynamic and engine development. Top teams like Red Bull and Ferrari spend more than USD 400 million annually , a figure that is almost unimaginable to most.
-
Boxing & MMA
The costs of becoming a top-level professional fighter are also extremely high. These include salaries for expert trainers, exclusive training camps, nutritionists, recovery specialists, and promotional expenses. Top athletes typically spend between 1 and 3 billion Rupiah annually on management and training alone, not including specific event costs, which can add tens of millions more.
Also read: How to Build an Exercise Habit in 30 Days? Here are the Tips!
-
Horse Racing
Premium racehorses can cost up to USD 50,000–100,000 (approximately IDR 750 million–1.5 billion). Each horse also requires boarding (IDR 3–10 million per month), veterinarians, qualified trainers, sponsors, and international transportation costs. The total cost per season can reach IDR 5–10 billion , depending on the frequency of racing and maintenance requirements.
-
Golf
Elite golf course members pay annual dues ranging from Rp 100 million to Rp 1 billion , not including premium merchandise. Professional golfers must continually update their equipment, plus pay for caddies, coaches, and tournament fees, including tickets, accommodation, and transportation—totaling anywhere from Rp 500 million to Rp 2 billion per year .
-
Snowboarding
Resort locations like Aspen or Zermatt charge high prices for lift passes and accommodations, ranging from Rp 200 million to Rp 500 million per week . Adding premium equipment, insurance, a professional guide, and international transportation, the total cost of a single trip can reach Rp 1 billion to Rp 3 billion one-way.
Does Expensive Mean Prestigious?
Of course, elite sports are often associated with a high-end lifestyle due to limited access. However, sport is more than just a status symbol; it's about personal passion, learning, and fitness . Amateur athletes in sports like running, cycling, or amateur boxing can achieve significant results without high costs. So make no mistake, prestige can come without having to dig deep into your pockets.
Also read: Are Calisthenics Beneficial for Improving Body Posture?
Conclusion
These seven sports demonstrate the deep commitment of money, time, and effort required to reach the elite level. If you have an unlimited budget, it can be an irresistible experience. However, it's important to choose a sport that aligns with your passion, capacity, and personal goals.
If you had unlimited funds, which sport would you try? Luxury polo, grand yacht racing, or perhaps conquering extreme snow on skis? Take your pick, and find information about other sports at SVRG!
