Sports & Activities

22Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Golf, Middle East & Gulf

Rory McIlroy confirmed for 2027 Dubai Desert Classic – with tickets now on sale

Northern Irish golf star Rory McIlroy will be looking to secure a record-extending fifth victory when he returns to Emirates Golf Club for the 2027 Hero Dubai Desert Classic from 21-24 January. The world No.2 and career Grand Slam winner is now a six-time major champion after defending his Masters title at Augusta National in April. He became only the fourth player to win back-to-back green jackets, after Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods. It capped a remarkable 12 months for McIlroy, who was also part of the European team which won the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and took his seventh Race to Dubai title to move past Seve Ballesteros. McIlroy is the most successful player in the history of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. He made his debut as a 16-year-old amateur in 20...

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18Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Other sports, The Americas

Kentucky Derby 2027: Premium hospitality packages offer fans the ultimate horse racing getaway

Horse racing fans planning a trip to the Kentucky Derby in 2027 can enjoy premium hospitality, exclusive trackside access and a range of travel experiences, including bourbon distillery tours and visits to thoroughbred farms. Derby Experiences, the official experience package provider to Churchill Downs, has unveiled two-day packages for the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, taking place in Louisville, Kentucky, on 30 April and 1 May 2027. Combining premium race-day seating with all-inclusive hospitality, the packages offer visitors a chance to experience one of America's most iconic sporting occasions while exploring the wider region. What do the Kentucky Derby 2027 packages include? A range of hospitality experiences are available across Churchill Downs, including the Clubhou...

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18Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Africa, Editor's Pick, F1 & Motorsport, Sports Business

F1 returns to Africa: Rwanda to host African Grand Prix under landmark 10-year deal 

Rwanda is set to become a major destination for Formula 1 fans and international sports tourists after a landmark agreement was announced to bring Grand Prix racing back to Africa for the first time in more than three decades. Formula 1 has confirmed a 10-year partnership for the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, which is expected to join the championship calendar in the early 2030s. The agreement will see F1 return to the African continent for the first time since 1993, when the South African Grand Prix was held at the Kyalami Circuit. The project forms part of Rwanda's wider ambition to establish itself as an international hub for sport, tourism, business and major events. Where will the F1 African Grand Prix take place? A new purpose-built circuit w...

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18Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Other sports, Sports Business

Fury vs Joshua hospitality packages range from £249 to £17,995

Seat Unique has been appointed official hospitality partner for the Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua all-British heavyweight boxing fight scheduled to take place at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Friday 11 December. The company will manage, sell and deliver the event’s premium experiences programme, acting as the sole platform for official premium access. The appointment builds on Seat Unique’s relationship with the Welsh Rugby Union and Principality Stadium, where it has been the official hospitality sales platform since 2021. Official hospitality packages are on sale for Fury vs Joshua, with additional experiences being developed for the fight. These include an exclusive VVIP offering, with further details to be announced once confirmed. Fury and Joshua have never faced each o...

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18Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Europe, Golf

From Bulgaria’s cliffs to Norway’s midnight sun: seven underrated golf destinations

A golf break on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast or a round beneath Norway’s midnight sun? Golfbreaks has selected seven European destinations for players looking to take their next trip beyond the familiar golfing hotspots. The tour operator’s picks range from coastal resorts with several courses on the doorstep to destinations where golf can be combined with surfing, hiking and exploring historic towns. The selection is supported by Golfbreaks’ internal booking data, comparing 2026 with the equivalent period in 2025. It comes as the company reports rising UK Google search interest in golf package holidays and quieter courses, using Google Trends figures current to September 2026. “Golf is steeped in tradition, and course quality is often judged by history and reputation,” said Cameron...

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11Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Destination Guides, Middle East & Gulf, Outdoor & Adventure

Oman sports travel guide: Best activities, adventures and destinations

From mountain trails and desert dunes to championship golf and watersports, Oman offers a wealth of opportunities for active holidays and sporting adventures. The Sultanate's diverse landscapes make it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from hiking, cycling and trail running to kitesurfing, scuba diving and sailing. Alongside its natural attractions, Oman hosts an established calendar of international sporting events, including the Tour of Oman cycling race, IRONMAN triathlons and endurance running competitions. Trail running, hiking and endurance sports The Al Hajar Mountains are among Oman's leading destinations for hiking, trail running and outdoor adventure. Popular routes include the Balcony Walk at Jebel Shams, overlooking the dramatic Wadi Ghu...

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11Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Destination Guides, Europe, Winter Sports

Les Gets celebrates milestone 90th year: what’s new for winter 2026-2027?

The French Alpine resort of Les Gets is preparing for a milestone winter as it celebrates 90 years since the installation of its first ski lift in 1936. Located in Haute-Savoie, Les Gets has grown from a traditional farming village into a popular ski destination while retaining its Alpine heritage and character. The resort forms part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, connecting 12 resorts across France and Switzerland. Together with neighbouring Morzine, Les Gets offers 120 kilometres of ski runs, 74 pistes and 50 lifts. Here's what's new in Les Gets for winter 2026-2027. Main image credit: Quentin Chopard https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0Tj87Q0-Q0 90 years of skiing in Les Gets The story of Les Gets as a ski resort began in 1936 with the installation of its fi...

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10Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, F1 & Motorsport

Formula 1 returns to Istanbul in October 2027 with the Turkish Grand Prix

Istanbul is gearing up for the return of Formula 1, with the Turkish Grand Prix confirmed as part of the 2027 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar. The race weekend will take place at TOSFED İstanbul Park from 1-3 October 2027, with practice and qualifying sessions scheduled for the opening two days before the main race on Sunday 3 October. It will be the first Turkish Grand Prix since 2021 and the tenth time the circuit has hosted a Formula 1 World Championship race. Türkiye's return to the F1 calendar was initially announced in April 2026 at a ceremony attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The new agreement will see races staged at Istanbul Park for five consecutive years, from 2027 to 2031. Türkiye’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said: “With ...

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10Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Africa, Events, Golf

MENA Golf Tour to open 2026-2027 season with three events in Cairo

The MENA Golf Tour has confirmed that it will open its 2026-2027 season with three tournaments in Egypt’s capital city Cairo. The season will tee off with the Cairo Open at Madinaty Golf Club from 28-30 November, followed by the New Giza Classic at New Giza Golf Club from 3-5 December. The Egyptian Open will then round off the three-tournament stretch at Madinaty Golf Club from 8-10 December. Both courses hosted the men's golf Tour last season, when Juan Salama set a course record 60 on his way to a wire-to-wire victory at Madinaty and Lauri Ruuska closed with a 62 to win at New Giza. The season will feature a minimum of 12 tournaments and at least $1.2 million in prize money, with every event carrying a minimum $100,000 prize fund and $18,000 to the winner. The cut falls after 36...

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10Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Watersports & Surfing

From surfing to coastal hikes: England’s seaside adventures take centre stage

England's coastline offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, whether that's hiking along dramatic clifftop trails, taking to the water for surfing and paddleboarding, or exploring nature reserves and wildlife-rich landscapes. Now, the VisitEngland tourism organisation is encouraging more people to discover these experiences with the launch of its new “All on England's Coast” campaign, showcasing the variety of activities and attractions available across the country's coastal destinations. The £1.2 million advertising campaign, which launched at the end of September, aims to boost domestic coastal breaks and visitor spending through autumn and into 2027. A particular focus is on active holidays and outdoor exploration, with the campaign highlighting everything from wa...

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10Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Europe, Hotels & Resorts, Winter Sports

The Ski Lodge: new boutique hotel opening in Verbier for 2026-2027 ski season

The Swiss Alps will welcome a new hotel for the 2026-2027 winter sports season, with The Ski Lodge set to open its doors in Verbier this December. Located in the centre of the popular mountain resort, the privately owned boutique hotel will feature 36 rooms and suites, a spa with an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant and a bar. As well as providing accommodation for skiing and snowboarding holidays, The Ski Lodge is designed around relaxation and recovery after a day on the slopes. The hotel is the creation of Frédéric Mydske, a property developer who grew up skiing in Verbier and previously founded Swiss aparthotel brand BASE. “I grew up skiing these mountains, and every good day in Verbier ends the same way – tired, but happy, and looking for somewhere good to land,” said Myd...

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7Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Europe, Events, Winter Sports

Snow polo in the Austrian Alps: The winter sporting spectacle worth travelling for

The regal sport of polo is traditionally associated with manicured grass pitches and warm-weather destinations, but in the Austrian Alps it takes on a very different form. For a winter sports trip with a difference, the Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup in Kitzbühel offers the chance to watch some of the world’s leading polo players compete on snow, surrounded by the spectacular mountain scenery of the Austrian Tirol. The 24th edition of the tournament will take place from 15-17 January 2027, bringing three days of equestrian action and entertainment to one of Europe’s best-known winter destinations. Snow polo in the Austrian Alps Set against the backdrop of the Wilder Kaiser mountains, the Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup combines high-speed sporting action with the stylish atm...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Event Calendars, Other sports

Horse racing 2026-2027 calendar: biggest UK and global races and festivals

Horse racing fans have plenty of major events to look forward to during the remainder of 2026 and throughout 2027, with some of the sport’s biggest races and festivals taking place across the UK, Ireland, Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia and the United States. From the famous jumps festivals at Cheltenham and Aintree to flat racing showpieces including the Derby, Royal Ascot and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the British and European calendars feature a packed schedule. Further afield, international highlights include the Saudi Cup in Riyadh, Dubai World Cup at Meydan, the US Triple Crown races, Melbourne Cup, Japan Cup, Hong Kong International Races and the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Here are some of the biggest horse racing events, races and festivals for the remaind...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Event Calendars, Football

Football 2027 events calendar: major tournaments and finals

Football fans have plenty to look forward to in 2027, with major international tournaments, European club finals and domestic showpieces taking place around the world. International football will take centre stage throughout the year. Saudi Arabia will host the AFC Asian Cup in January and February, while the summer will see the Africa Cup of Nations staged across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. One of the biggest sporting events of 2027 will be the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The tournament will run from 24 June to 25 July, with 32 nations competing across eight host cities. Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracanã will stage both the opening match and the final. In European club football, Madrid will host the UEFA Champions League final, Frankfurt welcomes the Europa League final and ...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Event Calendars, Tennis & Padel

Tennis 2027 events calendar: Grand Slams and top ATP and WTA tournaments

The 2027 tennis season will once again take the world’s best players and their fans around the globe, with four Grand Slams, major ATP and WTA tournaments and international team competitions on the calendar. The four Grand Slams will be staged in Melbourne, Paris, London and New York, starting with the Australian Open in January and finishing with the US Open in September. Away from the majors, the ATP Tour will feature 59 tournaments across 28 countries, including nine ATP Masters 1000 events, while the WTA Tour will feature 55 events across 26 countries and territories. Major stops on the combined tours include Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Rome and Cincinnati, while the WTA 1000 calendar also features Doha, Dubai, Beijing and Wuhan. The season will conclude with the ATP Finals i...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Europe, Events, Other sports

Fury vs Joshua: Cardiff to host long-awaited heavyweight showdown in December

After years of speculation, negotiations and calls from boxing fans to make it happen, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are finally set to meet in the ring. The two British heavyweight stars will go head-to-head on Friday 11 December 2026 at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, in what is expected to be one of the biggest boxing events staged in the UK in recent years. Fury and Joshua have dominated the British heavyweight scene for more than a decade, winning multiple world titles and headlining major stadium fights around the world. However, despite numerous attempts to arrange a bout, the pair have never previously fought professionally. That will finally change in Cardiff, with the former world champions meeting in front of a potentially huge crowd at Principality Stadium. ...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Europe, F1 & Motorsport, Outdoor & Adventure

Forget ordinary winter holidays: Go ice driving on Sweden’s frozen lakes

This may well be one of the coolest trips a motorsport enthusiast can experience. For those looking for something a little different from a traditional race weekend, how about swapping the grandstand for a frozen lake and getting behind the wheel yourself? Ice driving in Sweden offers the chance to experience performance cars in one of Europe’s most spectacular winter settings, combining high-speed driving, professional tuition and a Scandinavian adventure. UK-based motorsport travel specialist Grandstand Motor Sports has launched its 2027 Sweden ice driving packages, with two group departures scheduled for January and February. The experience features two full days of driving on specially prepared circuits across frozen lakes, with professional instructors helping participants de...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Europe, Football, Trends

Football holidays with a difference: G Adventures launches Away Games trips

G Adventures has expanded into the sports tourism sector with the launch of “Away Games”, a new collection of small-group football trips combining match tickets, accommodation and destination experiences in some of Europe’s leading football cities. The programme will initially feature trips built around Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, with the first departures running from October 2026 through to May 2027. Away Games is designed to address some of the key challenges facing international football tourists, particularly access to legitimate match tickets and navigating an unfamiliar destination on matchday. New research commissioned by G Adventures found that 41% of football fans surveyed were concerned about being scammed by fake ...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Europe, Running & Athletics

Why the Cardiff Half Marathon is the perfect excuse for a Welsh weekend away

With a route through the Welsh capital, more than 29,000 runners and a place on the prestigious SuperHalfs circuit, the Cardiff Half Marathon is becoming a major draw for travelling runners. And from 2027, it should become easier for participants to turn the race into a full sporting city break after Marathon Tours & Travel was announced as the event’s new Official Travel Partner. The event in 2027 will be held on Sunday 3 October. The partnership will provide dedicated accommodation and travel options for runners heading to Cardiff, including packages offering race entries for those unable to secure a place through the standard entry process. It provides another reason for runners to put Cardiff on their sports travel bucket list and combine one of the UK’s biggest road races...

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4Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Event Calendars, Other sports

PDC darts 2027 events calendar: key dates and biggest tournaments

If you love a bit of bully, then a darts trip should definitely be on your sports travel agenda for 2027. The 2027 Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) calendar will feature major tournaments, Premier League nights and European Tour events across the UK and Europe, as the sport continues its rapid international growth. Among the biggest darts events in 2027 are the PDC World Darts Championship, Premier League Darts, UK Open, World Cup of Darts, World Matchplay, World Grand Prix, European Championship, Grand Slam of Darts and Players Championship Finals. There are also some major additions to the schedule. The PDC European Tour will visit France for the first time, with Liévin hosting the inaugural Darts Grand Prix de France in March, while Salzburg in Austria will stage the new E...

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