Table 6

Aspects of commercialization identified in the review

Areas of commercializationAspects of commercializationMain conclusions on how fans react to commercialization
Commercialization of the role of athletes, teams and fansProfessionalization and market-orientation of elite sport teams managementBoth positive and negative
 Athletes becoming star-players and their importance for team identityBoth positive and negative
 Introducing consumption-oriented ideals on fansMainly negative
Commercialization of elite sport infrastructureModernization of stadiumsMainly negative
 Creation of fan sites/fan parksBoth positive and negative
Commercialization of communication in elite sportsElite sports becoming an entertainment productMainly negative
 Global branding of athletes/players/teamsBoth positive and negative
Commercial actors increase their impact on elite sportsIncreased presence and coverage from media and major broadcastersBoth positive and negative
Increased influence of sponsors on teams and competitionsBoth positive and negative
Transforming ownership structures of elite sport teams and increase in private ownersMainly negative

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