Abstract
<jats:p>Background and Purpose Sport tourism has increasingly evolved into a hybrid development model integrating cultural heritage, participatory physical activities, and destination experience. However, limited empirical research has examined how ritual-based cultural festivals in rural coastal contexts can be systematically reconceptualized as sustainable sport tourism ecosystems without compromising authenticity. This study aims to (1) identify the embedded sport tourism potential within the Mandi Safar Festival in Jambi, Indonesia, (2) analyze stakeholder perceptions regarding its development, and (3) formulate a community-based and sustainability-oriented sport tourism framework. Materials and Methods This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach using an embedded single-case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 purposively selected informants (traditional leaders, local government officials, tourism authorities, SME actors, and visitors), participant observation during the festival implementation, and document analysis. Thematic analysis following open, axial, and selective coding procedures was applied to identify dominant empirical patterns. Data credibility was ensured through triangulation, member checking, and audit trail documentation. Results Findings reveal five interconnected domains: (1) strong collective cultural identity grounded in preserved ritual authenticity; (2) a diversified portfolio of traditional games and beach sports reflecting hybrid sport tourism characteristics; (3) visitor experience patterns concentrated around a single peak day; (4) increased yet temporally concentrated SME economic benefits; and (5) operational and sustainability challenges related to safety standards, environmental management, spatial planning, and digital promotion. Conclusions The Mandi Safar Festival demonstrates significant potential to function as a hybrid cultural–sport tourism ecosystem. Sustainable advancement depends on strengthening community-based governance, formalizing safety and environmental protocols, extending event programming, and integrating strategic leveraging mechanisms. The study contributes to the theoretical refinement of hybrid sport tourism models in rural coastal destinations.</jats:p>