The sports industry in the Yangtze River Delta benefits from a strong economic base, large domestic events, and a proposed Free Trade Area. However, obstacles to regional cooperation include inadequate coordination mechanisms, differing economic models, imbalanced industry structures, lack of professionals, and government neglect. To overcome these challenges, the region should break down administrative barriers, integrate industries, innovate mechanisms, follow market laws, leverage regional strengths, establish a unified industry base, and develop a comprehensive market system for professional sports.