Planning mega-events: Entrepreneurial, regulatory and neopatrimonial models

Despite their cyclical and predictable nature within established operational and contractual frameworks, planning approaches to mega-events vary considerably across host cities. Drawing on an extensive literature review of the Olympic Games, this paper contributes to the existing literature by conceptualising three planning models of mega-events: entrepreneurial, regulatory, and neopatrimonial. These models are categorised according to their principal goals, funding schemes, key actors, delivery agents, and governance modes. We argue that the processes and outcomes of mega-event planning must be contextualised within the normative and political-economic contexts of host cities. The relevance of this study is further underscored by declining appeal of hosting mega-events among cities – as evidenced by the bidding processes for the 2024 and 2028 Games. This shift has reignited debate on how the Games should be adapted to fit the host city and its local communities, rather than requiring cities to conform to the demands of the event. The proposed models may support policymakers in aligning mega-events with local public policy objectives. They also offer a useful framework for future research into the planning dimensions of organising both large-scale and smaller, first- and second-tier events.