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Sustainable Sports Tourism Awards launched by UN Tourism and FIA
Sports Business

Sustainable Sports Tourism Awards launched by UN Tourism and FIA

UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) have launched the UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism powered by FIA. Featuring four categories, the awards are designed to recognise initiatives that drive sustainability, innovation, social impact, and successful examples of public-private partnership within the sports tourism sector, while promoting and encouraging responsible practices that align with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. Most Sustainable Sport Event Community Impact in Sports Tourism Innovation in Sports Tourism Development Outstanding Public-Private Partnerships in Sports Tourism The launch of these Awards builds on the strategic partnership established between the two Organizations in Septem...
Five Iron Golf UAE to open new venues in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Sports Business

Five Iron Golf UAE to open new venues in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Five Iron Golf’s UAE franchisee, which already operates the flagship indoor golf and entertainment venue at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, has confirmed two new venue openings as part of its regional expansion. A lease has been signed for a location at Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, along with a third site at DAMAC Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts in Business Bay, Dubai. Both venues are scheduled to open in Q1 2026, with further plans to expand into key markets across Asia, Europe and Africa. To support this growth, the group has closed a new financing round led by Powerhouse Capital, with participation from NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr., recent PGA Tour winner Kurt Kitayama, LPGA star Alison Lee and Managing Partner of Sharp Alpha Lloyd Danzig. The UAE fran...
Paris ranked world’s top sport city of 2025 ahead of LA and NYC
Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Paris ranked world’s top sport city of 2025 ahead of LA and NYC

Paris has once again been named as the world’s top sports city, according to Burson’s 2025 Ranking of Sport Cities. The French capital topped the ranking for the third consecutive year with Los Angeles maintaining second place and New York City securing third. London remains in fourth position, while Madrid completes the top five.  The annual ranking identifies the top 100 cities from around the world with the strongest association with sport. It is based on both perception and in-depth quantitative analysis, including feedback from international sports leaders, sports media representatives and industry experts, as well as social media and media coverage analytics. For the first time, this year's edition also includes PR metrics derived from comprehensive media tracking. The 202...
Mallorca pledges to leverage sport in responsible tourism push  
Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Mallorca pledges to leverage sport in responsible tourism push  

The Spanish island of Mallorca has established itself as a leading international sports tourism destination thanks to its year-round calendar of events and activities which attract both amateurs and professionals from across the globe, driving the local economy and enriching its tourism offering.  High-profile events such as the Mallorca Championships not only put the island firmly on the global sporting map, but also serve as a key platform to promote the Pledge – the Manifesto for Responsible Tourism adopted by Mallorca as a guide toward a more conscious, fair, and sustainable model of tourism. The Pledge lays out a roadmap to transform the way Mallorca manages its tourism. It calls for a model rooted in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and the protection of the island’s...
DP World Tour 2026 calendar: 42 tournaments across five ‘global swings’ 
Event Calendars, Events, Golf

DP World Tour 2026 calendar: 42 tournaments across five ‘global swings’ 

The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship and a new venue for the Amgen Irish Open headline the 2026 DP World Tour global schedule.  Featuring a minimum of 42 Race to Dubai tournaments in 25 different countries, the schedule will once again comprise three distinct phases, beginning with five ‘Global Swings’ followed by the ‘Back 9’, with the season then culminating with the ‘DP World Tour Play-Offs’ in November 2026. Members will compete for a record total prize fund of $157.5 million (outside the Major Championships) on golf’s global Tour next season. The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship, the first tournament on the European Swing, will take place from 7-10 May 2026 at Real Club de Golf El Prat in Barcelona. It is a new event on the 2026 schedule following the agreement annou...
Destination Sport Group named official local partner of Man City FC
Sports Business

Destination Sport Group named official local partner of Man City FC

Premier League football club Manchester City have announced an official local partnership with sports travel specialists, Destination Sport Group. For a number of years, Destination Sport Group has provided the club with expert team travel support, youth development tours, fan travel packages and curated travel experiences through its subsidiary brands – Destination Sport Travel, Inspiresport, SportsBreaks and Sportsworld.  The new local partnership agreement will see Destination Sport Group continue providing team travel services to Man City, whilst also creating experiences for fans and groups as part of an integrated local partnership. This includes trips for schools and youth clubs involving world-class coaching at the City Football Academy via inspiresport, ticket and hotel breaks ...
Property+Padel: redefining corporate networking through sport
Sports Business, Tennis & Padel

Property+Padel: redefining corporate networking through sport

What happens when you mix the world’s fastest-growing sport with the dynamic energy of global business? The answer is Property+Padel, a fresh, high-energy corporate networking platform that’s bringing together professionals from real estate, finance, private equity, fintech, insurance, legal, media and sport. At its core, the concept is simple yet effective. Corporate teams step onto the padel court to battle it out for the ‘Corporate Padel Cup’. But the real game extends far beyond the glass walls. Off court, competitors and cross-industry leaders gather to connect, collaborate and spark new business opportunities in a uniquely social setting. Behind this fast-rising platform are co-founders Rohit Grewal and Ben Nichols, who fused their backgrounds in real estate and international s...
Sports travel bucket list: an Alpine winter ice driving and ski adventure
Bucket List, Europe, F1 & Motorsport, Trips & Experiences, Winter Sports

Sports travel bucket list: an Alpine winter ice driving and ski adventure

Luxury driving tour company HunterMoss has launched a seven-day winter adventure for supercar and ski enthusiasts in January 2026.  The Luxury Winter Ice Driving Tour starts in Munich, Germany, where guests will embark on a small group tour that traverses over 750km of the Austrian and Bavarian Alps, cruising in a convoy of luxury SUVs, settling into a series of rejuvenating five-star spa retreats and experiential fine-dining. Midway through the tour, travellers can opt to take on a two-day Porsche Ice Driving Experience, mastering snow and ice circuits at speed behind the wheel of Boxsters, Caymans, 911s and GT3s. The itinerary also opens the door to Salzburg’s celebrated winter landscape, where guests can explore some of Austria’s finest ski terrain at the peak of the season, befor...
Cristiano Ronaldo stars in Saudi tourism’s new events campaign
Sports Business

Cristiano Ronaldo stars in Saudi tourism’s new events campaign

“Saudi, Welcome to Arabia”, the consumer-facing brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), has unveiled its latest campaign starring football icon Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7). Launching across key markets in Europe, India and China, the “I Came for Football, I Stayed For More” campaign heralds the start of Saudi’s extended season of sport, entertainment, as well as film, fashion and cultural events.  Launched across TV, social, digital, and OTA, the film starring CR7 highlights Saudi’s diverse, year-round sports and entertainment events held across Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla. Saudi Arabia is gearing up to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, AFC Asian Cup 2027, Esports Olympics Games 2027 and Asian Winter Games 2029, while its regular calendar includes large-scale international events such as ...
Explora Journeys names Jannik Sinner as brand ambassador 
Sports Business, Tennis & Padel

Explora Journeys names Jannik Sinner as brand ambassador 

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has announced a partnership with four-time tennis grand slam champion Jannik Sinner, who becomes the brand's new ambassador. At the heart of this collaboration is The Ocean State of Mind, Explora Journeys' guiding ethos – a philosophy inspired by the sea and its ability to create calm, clarity, and connection. For Italian star Sinner, 24, these values are essential to his performance: balance to navigate high-pressure moments, resilience to recover, and the ability to remain grounded in the constant pursuit of improvement. This alignment reflects a shared understanding that excellence is not only about results, but also about process, authenticity, and wellbeing.  "I'm honoured to join Explora Journeys as the...
E-biking in Upper Austria: a slow sports travel escape
Trends, Trips & Experiences

E-biking in Upper Austria: a slow sports travel escape

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner took his FA Cup-winning side for some pre-season matches to Upper Austria. Glasner’s team certainly benefitted from the clean air and local produce, having flown home with two wins under their belt. Ramy James Salameh followed in their footsteps but explored the culture and heritage of the region from the saddle of a e-bike in a slower more considered manner. Sitting in the world’s largest cider barrel sauna – the Mostfassl – with 50 other naked strangers might not be your traditional warm-down after a nature-filled cycle ride, but in Upper Austria this is simply how one keeps body and mind at a healthy equilibrium. It is not high-intensity workouts or Tour de France-style cycling elevations, but simply a form of slow sports travel in a rolling and ...
Sports resort in focus: Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club, Scotland
Europe, Golf, Hotels & Resorts, Trips & Experiences

Sports resort in focus: Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club, Scotland

Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s rolling Perthshire countryside, just 20 minutes from Dundee Airport and under an hour from Edinburgh, Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club is a luxury retreat that fuses championship golf with timeless Scottish hospitality. Set across 365 acres of parkland and woodland, this historic estate is both a tranquil escape and a gateway to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. With its blend of elite golf access, refined accommodation, diverse dining, and adventure-filled countryside setting, Murrayshall offers the complete Scottish getaway. Whether you’re chasing bucket-list golf, a romantic retreat, or an outdoor family escape, this Perthshire gem delivers an unforgettable experience at the very heart of Scotland. The estate Dating back more...
Sports travel bucket list: Picos de Europa walking holiday in Spain
Bucket List, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: Picos de Europa walking holiday in Spain

The spectacular skyline of the Picos de Europa region of northern Spain has held a special draw for centuries, signalling to sailors that they were nearly home, and now beckoning hikers from around the world. A new route offered by walking trip specialists On Foot Holidays maintains this sense of anticipation, starting in the green foothills to the east and journeying westwards to the higher wilderness. First you'll become acquainted with the quiet farm tracks scattered across the Polaciones and Liébana valleys. Stop at tiny villages to stay in wayside inns and small hotels where you can enjoy a glass of orujo (the local firewater) with your hosts and sample the hearty Lebaniego stew. After the bustling little town of Potes, follow the final section of the Camino Lebaniego pilgrimage...
A guide to golf in Dubai
Golf, Middle East & Gulf

A guide to golf in Dubai

Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world’s premier golf tourism destinations, attracting both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs to its sun-drenched fairways. What was once desert terrain has been transformed into a golfer’s paradise, where championship courses designed by legends of the game sit alongside cutting-edge entertainment venues and luxurious resorts. The city’s year-round warm climate, stunning skyline backdrops, and exceptional hospitality make it an irresistible choice for anyone looking to combine sport with leisure. At the heart of Dubai’s appeal is its role as a regular stop on the men’s DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour), with prestigious events such as the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and season-ending DP World Tour Championship drawi...
Okinawa: celebrate Karate Day in the birthplace of karate
Asia & Oceania, Other sports, Trips & Experiences

Okinawa: celebrate Karate Day in the birthplace of karate

Every October, the subtropical islands of Okinawa transform into the world stage for one of the most powerful cultural displays in Japan: Karate Day. Held on 25 October in the prefectural capital of Naha, this annual event gathers thousands of practitioners from across the globe to honour Okinawa’s role as the birthplace of karate – a martial art that is more than just combat; it is a way of life rooted in courtesy, discipline, and respect. Living heritage Karate’s story stretches back more than 700 years, forged in Okinawa’s unique history as a crossroads of East and Southeast Asia. Over time, the art evolved into a disciplined practice known today not only for its power and precision, but also for its guiding philosophy, shurei-no-kokoro – the spirit of courtesy.  In Okinaw...
Sports travel bucket list: hiking and island hopping on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast
Bucket List, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: hiking and island hopping on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast

Step off the tourist trail and onto Croatia’s spectacular Dalmatian coast and its islands with a seven-day hiking adventure. Offered by travel company Island Hopping, this journey combines rugged trails with boutique stays, weaving through hidden coves, historic towns, and breathtaking seascapes. Guided by local experts, travellers can uncover the authentic heart of Croatia – its culture, heritage, and natural beauty – one step at a time. The "Croatia Island Explorer" trip begins in the ancient city of Split, looping through the picturesque islands of Brac and Hvar, before returning to Split's scenic waterfront. Guests will follow historic trails and hike to breathtaking peaks, exploring iconic landmarks and stunning natural wonders along the way. Daily hikes average 5.8km with highligh...
Intrepid Travel unveils new premium walking and trekking trips
Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Intrepid Travel unveils new premium walking and trekking trips

Adventure travel company Intrepid Travel has unveiled its range of new premium walking and trekking trips to some of the world's best hiking trails. Departing from January 2026 and led by Intrepid's most experienced local leaders, Intrepid's premium range is the company's most comfortable travel offering, where travellers can expect handpicked accommodation, premium service and exceptional included experiences. Spanning five continents and ranging from three to nine days, the 10 new premium trips feature hikes through Italy, Madeira, Vietnam, Nepal, Morocco, Peru, Jordan and the United States. Since its 2022 launch, premium has become Intrepid's fastest growing travel style, while sales of its well-established walking and trekking range have also grown. Intrepid has seen an 89% incre...
Swim England and SwimTrek partner to promote open water swimming experiences 
Sports Business

Swim England and SwimTrek partner to promote open water swimming experiences 

Swim England, the national governing body for swimming in England, has partnered with SwimTrek to help more people discover swimming through the growing appeal of open water experiences.  This new collaboration with the adventure swimming holiday company is part of Swim England's broader mission to get more people swimming more often – by making the sport more accessible, inclusive, and connected to real-life experiences. With outdoor swimming continuing to grow in popularity, teaming up with SwimTrek enables Swim England to reach new audiences and inspire people who may not have engaged with traditional swimming environments.  Andy Salmon, CEO of Swim England, said: “We want to show that swimming isn't limited to pools. By working with SwimTrek, we can open up exciting new path...
The Chedi Niseko: new hotel in Japan’s alpine ski region set for 2029 opening
Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

The Chedi Niseko: new hotel in Japan’s alpine ski region set for 2029 opening

Chedi Hospitality has announced its long-anticipated entry into the Japanese market with The Chedi Niseko – an exclusive alpine development of a boutique hotel in the heart of Hirafu, Niseko. Set for completion in June 2029, this milestone marks the brand's re-entry into Asia and cements its growing authority in the world's most exceptional alpine destinations.  Positioned within one of Japan's most celebrated ski and nature regions, The Chedi Niseko will offer seamless access to world-class slopes, vibrant culinary offerings, and year-round outdoor pursuits. The development responds to increasing international demand for elevated, experience-led stays in Japan and reflects Chedi Hospitality's signature approach to crafting design-led, culturally attuned destinations.  Step...
Sports travel bucket list: 10-day Japan ski and culture tour
Bucket List, Trips & Experiences, Winter Sports

Sports travel bucket list: 10-day Japan ski and culture tour

As Japan’s popularity for luxury skiing continues to grow, Wayfairer Travel has launched a 10-day Japan ski and culture tour to meet rising demand. Projected to become the luxury travel company’s most popular destination in 2025, bookings to Japan have increased by 32% since 2024.  Japan is the world’s most sought-after skiing destination due to its exceptional snow conditions and unique cultural  experiences. Influenced by cold Siberian winds, the region consistently receives light, dry powder snow known as ‘JaPOW’, which, combined with Japan’s distinctive tree skiing, sets it apart from other winter destinations around the globe.  Wayfairer’s new itinerary is packed with both metropolitan city exploration and off-the grid adventure – a fantastic tour for travellers seeking immersiv...