This systematic review examines the influence of sporting events on carbon emissions, with a particular focus on studies published between 2019 and 2024. As the global sports market expands significantly, concerns about the environmental impact of sporting events, particularly their carbon footprint, are becoming increasingly prominent. This review addresses two key research questions: the relationship between sporting events and carbon emissions and the efficacy of measures implemented to reduce these emissions. A comprehensive literature search across seven databases initially identified 616 relevant studies. Following a thorough screening process, 10 articles were deemed to meet the inclusion criteria. The selected studies encompass a diverse range of countries and sports, underscoring the mounting interest in the subject of carbon emissions from sporting activities. However, this review also identifies notable deficiencies in the existing research. Although sporting events may not be as significant contributors to carbon emissions as other sectors, there is a pressing need for a more profound comprehension of the environmental consequences of these events, particularly as they become more prevalent and extensive in scale. This review underscores the need for more focused research in the domain of sport ecology, specifically emphasizing the sustainability of mega-events.