Sport travel guides and sports events news

2026 Ranking of Sports Cities: New York takes top spot ahead of Paris and LA

20Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

2026 Ranking of Sports Cities: New York takes top spot ahead of Paris and LA

New York has taken the top spot in Burson’s 2026 Ranking of Sports Cities, ahead of Paris, Los Angeles, London and Madrid. Paris moves to second place after topping the ranking for three consecutive years. The annual ranking identifies the top 100 cities from around the world with the strongest association with sport. Now in its 15th edition, 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. Together, these indicators provide a comprehensive view of how cities build visibility and influence through sport. The 2026 Ranking of Sports Cities identifies four key findings th...

‘Eye-catching’ journeys: The world’s top 15 most beautiful cycling routes

20Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Cycling & Biking, Trends

‘Eye-catching’ journeys: The world’s top 15 most beautiful cycling routes

Using eye-tracking technology, new research from adventure travel experts Explore reveals which cycling routes are objectively the most beautiful in the world. The findings come as demand for two-wheeled travel surges. Google searches for “cycling holiday” up 292% in the past 12 months, now attracting more than 42,000 global searches per month. Showing participants images of 52 renowned cycling routes from around the world, the study used eye-tracking software to measure which caught their attention quickest and held it longest. These metrics were combined into a weighted "eye-catching" score out of 100 to produce a definitive ranking. Most beautiful cycling routes and ‘eye-catching’ scores 1 Canada Bow Valley Parkway (Banff–Lake Louise) 97/100 2 Australia Gre...

The most epic bike trips in the world according to Lonely Planet

20Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Cycling & Biking, Editor's Pick, Trends

The most epic bike trips in the world according to Lonely Planet

From Morocco’s Atlas Mountains to Cornwall’s rugged coastline in England, Lonely Planet has revealed six of the world’s most epic multi-day bike trips, offering adventurous cyclists inspiration for their next two-wheeled escape. The selection is taken from Lonely Planet’s new title, Epic Bike Trips of the World, which brings together 50 unforgettable cycling adventures from around the globe, alongside a further 150 suggestions for cyclists looking for their next great ride. The six routes highlighted by Lonely Planet, spotlighting Cornwall’s West Kernow Way as well as bikepacking through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, tackling Peru’s high-altitude Great Divide, following Vietnam’s Central Highlands to the coast, exploring Italy’s Abruzzo and cycling through the gold-rush land...

Formula 1 comes to Milan: Inside the 2027 F1 fan festival and live show

6Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Europe, F1 & Motorsport

Formula 1 comes to Milan: Inside the 2027 F1 fan festival and live show

Formula 1 fans looking for an early addition to the 2027 sports travel bucket list should mark 18-20 February in the calendar, when F1 Live Milan brings a three-day celebration of motorsport to one of Italy’s most famous cities. Taking place just ahead of the start of the 2027 Formula 1 season, the event promises to turn Milan into a destination for F1 fans from around the world, combining appearances from the sport’s biggest names with live entertainment and a three-day fan festival. F1 Live Milan follows the success of F1 75 Live, which was held at The O2 in London in February 2025. That event was broadcast across 37 territories and attracted 7.5 million viewers to its live broadcast. Formula 1 now plans to take the concept further with a bigger and more immersive experience in Ita...

After return to London, tennis’ Laver Cup will head to Los Angeles in 2027

6Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Tennis & Padel, The Americas

After return to London, tennis’ Laver Cup will head to Los Angeles in 2027

Los Angeles has been confirmed as host city for the 10th edition of the Laver Cup, with the three-day men's team tennis competition set to take place at Intuit Dome in Inglewood from 24-26 September 2027. The tournament will arrive in California a year after the Laver Cup returns to London, where The O2 will host the 2026 edition from 25-27 September. For travelling tennis fans, Los Angeles promises a very different setting for the competition – and another opportunity to combine world-class sport with a city break in one of the world's biggest entertainment destinations. It will also form part of an extraordinary period for sports tourism in Los Angeles. After hosting matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the city will also host Super Bowl LXI in 2027 and the Olympic and Paralympi...

Rise of ‘sportcations’: Trip.com reports double-digit growth in active travel bookings

6Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Outdoor & Adventure, Trends, Trips & Experiences

Rise of ‘sportcations’: Trip.com reports double-digit growth in active travel bookings

Active travel and “sportcations” are continuing to be one of the biggest trends in tourism, with Trip.com Group seeing a strong double-digit increase in booking GMV (gross merchandise value). From cycling through mountain passes to joining diving camps and wellness retreats, active travel is becoming a defining part of how people experience the world. This shift is gathering pace across the full travel journey, with searches for active sports experiences growing by more than 30% year on year, according to Trip.com, with markets witnessing substantial increases: 80% in Singapore, 65% in Malaysia, and 50% in the United Kingdom, while France, Italy, Germany, and Spain all recorded triple-digit growth. Total travel booking GMV has increased by almost 40%, with markets such as So...

Active ‘coolcations’ in Europe – top destinations for hiking and cycling

6Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Cycling & Biking, Editor's Pick, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trends, Trips & Experiences

Active ‘coolcations’ in Europe – top destinations for hiking and cycling

The best destinations in Europe for an active “coolcation” have been revealed, with France's Mont Blanc region taking first place. In new research from SportsCover Direct, the sports travel insurance provider analysed 30 of Europe's most popular adventure destinations, ranking each on average summer temperature and humidity, hiking and cycling trail density, and travel time from the UK. Following another summer of record-breaking temperatures across Europe, online searches for coolcations have risen 74% year-on-year, with 65% of holidaymakers now saying they'd rather avoid travelling during the hottest time of year. But, rather than giving up on travel altogether, many are simply choosing to visit somewhere cooler instead, and for a growing number, it’s not just about swappi...

2026 Kangaroo Island Run Festival attracts hundreds of international visitors

6Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Asia & Oceania, Running & Athletics, Sports Business

2026 Kangaroo Island Run Festival attracts hundreds of international visitors

Held on Sunday 23 August, the 2026 Kangaroo Island Marathon, Half Marathon and Sealink 10K attracted runners from around the world to Flinders Chase National Park for one of Australia’s most remote and unique marathon events. A total of 279 runners took part in the Kangaroo Island Run Festival, out of 299 registered, and together they brought more than 500 additional guests to the island – more than 800 visitors in all, a strong boost for the local economy. Runners represented 20 different nationalities, reflecting the event's growing international appeal, up significantly from 221 registered runners and 187 participants in 2025. Alongside a strong Australian contingent, the USA (39), Great Britain (11) and Canada (five) made up some of the largest overseas cohorts, with run...

London Aquatics Centre to host International Swimming League 2026 All-Star Match

6Sep

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Europe, Events, Other sports, Sports Business

London Aquatics Centre to host International Swimming League 2026 All-Star Match

The 2026 International Swimming League (ISL) All-Star Match will be held at the London Aquatics Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Saturday 19 December 2026. A one-night team competition featuring some of the world’s best swimmers, the All-Star Match marks the start of the ISL’s next chapter as it plans for its full return. The match will bring the sport’s biggest names back to the pool for a single unmissable evening, staged in front of a live London crowd and a global broadcast audience. Also, the total prize pool for the All-Star Match will be the largest ever offered for a single night of competitive swimming. London was chosen as the host city for its world-class venue and its standing as one of the great international swimming cities. The London Aquatics Centre, built fo...

Qatar Airways Holidays launches stopover packages for F1 Qatar Grand Prix 2026

24Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

F1 & Motorsport, Middle East & Gulf, Trends, Trips & Experiences

Qatar Airways Holidays launches stopover packages for F1 Qatar Grand Prix 2026

Qatar Airways Holidays has expanded its Qatar stopover experience with the launch of exclusive packages for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2026. For the first time, three-day F1 race tickets have been integrated into Qatar Stopover packages along with flights and hotel accommodation, allowing passengers transiting through Doha's Hamad International Airport to create a grand prix getaway. The new offering complements Qatar Airways Holidays' existing F1 fan packages, providing travellers with another way to experience the excitement of the race at Lusail International Circuit while discovering Qatar's entertainment, cultural and hospitality offerings. A three-day T16 Grandstand ticket to the F1 Qatar GP 2026 will be included as part of the package, offering fans spect...

Tennis travel kit: I play with Jack Draper’s racket – the Dunlop FX 500 Tour (2026)

24Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Tennis & Padel, Trends

Tennis travel kit: I play with Jack Draper’s racket – the Dunlop FX 500 Tour (2026)

For sports travellers, few things beat the chance to test the same equipment used at the highest level of the game. Ramy James Salameh gets his hands on Dunlop's FX 500 Tour Series racket and a set of AO Balls to put them both through their paces... Famous sporting brand ambassadors are hard to ignore, we see them delivering at the elite level and want to emulate them. Certainly, this is no more prevalent than in tennis. A game where technique and footwork must be on-point, alongside, balance, dexterity and artistry with the racket. Dunlop have British tennis sensation Jack Draper on their books, a strapping 6’4” player who already has three-career titles under his belt and been ranked as high as number 4 in the world. And maybe like Matteo Berrettini and Gregor Dimitrov has those fi...

Glasgow’s OVO Hydro to host EIHL Ice Hockey for first time with Scottish festive double header

22Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Europe, Events, Other sports, Sports Business

Glasgow’s OVO Hydro to host EIHL Ice Hockey for first time with Scottish festive double header

The OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland, will host professional ice hockey for the first time in December 2026, as Glasgow Clan, Dundee Stars and Fife Flyers bring the Motorpoint Elite League to the arena for a special double header of matches. The event will see all three of Scotland’s professional ice hockey teams feature at the OVO Hydro, giving fans the opportunity to watch the fast-growing sport at the country’s largest purpose-built events arena. The games will form part of a two-day festival of EIHL action at the OVO Hydro. First on Wednesday 30 December, Dundee Stars will take on Fife Flyers at 3pm, before Glasgow Clan face reigning Motorpoint Elite League champions Belfast Giants at 7.30pm on 30 December. Then, the following day – on Hogmanay, Thursday 31 December – at 3pm,...

Global sports tourism market to reach $957.91 billion by 2031 – report

22Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Global sports tourism market to reach $957.91 billion by 2031 – report

Valued at $680.23 billion in 2025, the global sports tourism market is projected to increase from $721.60 billion in 2026 to $957.91 billion by 2031, according to a new report issued by Research and Markets. The market is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.09% during the 2026-2031 forecast period, supported by international sporting events, premium hospitality packages, active participation travel and expanding sports infrastructure. International sporting events strengthen travel demand A growing pipeline of international tournaments is creating sustained demand across the global sports tourism market. After co-hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the United States is preparing to host major events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the LA28 Olympic a...

Trump’s Twelve: New 12-hole par-three golf course opens at Trump Turnberry

20Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Europe, Golf, Trends, Venues & Stadiums

Trump’s Twelve: New 12-hole par-three golf course opens at Trump Turnberry

Trump’s Twelve, a new 12-hole par-three course at Trump Turnberry, has officially opened at the iconic golf resort on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast.Featuring holes ranging from 70 to 206 yards, the course combines undulating greens, imaginative green surrounds, natural wasteland areas and carefully positioned water features to create a dramatic short-course layout for golfers of all ages and abilities. The opening marks another exciting chapter at Trump Turnberry, where Trump’s Twelve joins the legendary Ailsa, consistently ranked among the world’s greatest golf courses, and the highly acclaimed King Robert the Bruce course. The opening of Trump’s Twelve continues an exceptional period of investment across the golf facilities at Trump Turnberry, following the recent enhancements to the A...

Inaugural Greek Odyssey Running Festival to be held in Costa Navarino

20Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Europe, Running & Athletics, Trends

Inaugural Greek Odyssey Running Festival to be held in Costa Navarino

Marathon Tours & Travel has announced the launch of a brand-new event, the Greek Odyssey Running Festival, taking place in Costa Navarino, Greece on Saturday 14 November 2026, which includes a half-marathon and 10K distance. Hosted the weekend after the Athens Marathon, the Greek Odyssey offers runners the chance to extend their time in Greece, combining two race distances with the country's rich mythology, dramatic coastline and warm late-autumn climate. Costa Navarino, on the south-west coast of the Peloponnese, sits amid landscapes steeped in ancient legend – the same rugged coastline and storied ruins, including nearby Methoni Castle and Voidokilia Beach, that have captured global imaginations again this year following the release of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, filmed ex...

Sports travel bucket list: the return of Formula 1 to Malaysia in 2026

20Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Asia & Oceania, Bucket List, F1 & Motorsport, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: the return of Formula 1 to Malaysia in 2026

Formula 1 will return to Malaysia’s iconic Sepang International Circuit after nine years following the decision to relocate the Bahrain Grand Prix. Taking place from 2-4 October 2026, the event will become the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Located around 45km south of Kuala Lumpur and close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Sepang International Circuit hosted the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017. It remains one of the sport’s most iconic venues, renowned for its dramatic 5.543km layout, challenging corners and spectacular tropical setting. F1 fans are being encouraged to explore beyond the grid, to combine race weekend excitement with a wider Malaysian getaway. Beyond the circuit, the wider Sepang district offers Bagan Lalang Beach, th...

Sports travel bucket list: a ‘SwimHike’ holiday on Marettimo island in Italy

20Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Europe, Other sports, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: a ‘SwimHike’ holiday on Marettimo island in Italy

Open-water swimming tour operator SwimTrek has expanded its selection of multi-activity trips with the launch of a “SwimHike” holiday on the Italian island of Marettimo. Continuing the trend of combining swimming with other activities and experiences – such as YogaSwims, which pair open-water swimming with yoga – SwimTrek created its dedicated SwimHike portfolio with new trips in the mythical island of Ithaca, Greece, and the remote Solund archipelago, Norway's westernmost islands. Following the popularity of these trips, Marettimo is the latest addition, combining daily guided open-water swims and hikes with authentic Sicilian experiences. “Swimming will always be at the heart of SwimTrek, but we’re excited to give people new ways to experience the places we visit,” s...

Sports travel bucket list: padel retreat at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

20Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Asia & Oceania, Bucket List, Tennis & Padel, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: padel retreat at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Could this be the perfect pre-Christmas gift for padel lovers? Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is hosting The Maldives Padel Retreat from 13-23 December 2026. Led by former world No.1, Juani Mieres, the retreat invites guests to refine their game with a legend of the sport while embracing the pleasures of island life. The 10-day retreat brings together expert coaching on a state-of-the-art padel court overlooking the turquoise lagoon, island discovery and a curated programme of wellness, recreation and exploration. Widely regarded as one of the sport's most respected figures, Mieres reached world No.1 and won multiple World Championship and World Padel Tour titles. Known as "The Gentleman of Padel" for his elegant playing style and precision, Mieres will open up his playbook, g...

Sports travel bucket list: pedal kayaking at Hanz Outdoor Resort in Japan

19Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Asia & Oceania, Bucket List, Hotels & Resorts, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: pedal kayaking at Hanz Outdoor Resort in Japan

A new water activity, the "pedal kayak", has been introduced at Hanz Outdoor Resort in Japan, offering guests a fresh way to explore the water. This innovative kayak allows forward movement simply by pedalling with the feet, removing the need for a traditional paddle. Designed for ease and accessibility, the pedal kayak glides smoothly across the water, making it especially suitable for first-time kayakers, children, and older guests. Its intuitive operation allows participants to focus less on technique and more on the experience of being on the water. Guests can enjoy the quiet rhythm of pedalling while taking in the surrounding natural scenery, creating a relaxed yet active outdoor experience. A two-hour pedal kayak trip is priced from ¥9,500 / £44 per person. About Hanz Out...

F1 Spanish GP in Madrid to generate €467m economic impact and support 8,850 jobs

19Aug

By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, F1 & Motorsport, Sports Business

F1 Spanish GP in Madrid to generate €467m economic impact and support 8,850 jobs

A new study on the economic impact of the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix has raised estimates of the event’s contribution to Madrid to €467 million and 8,850 jobs, a figure equivalent to 5.7% of the direct gross value added generated by the Region’s recreational activities sector. The report, produced by PwC using real sales and investment data linked to preparations for the event, also indicates that it will generate nearly €83 million in tax revenues and social security contributions. These figures reflect the huge expectation surrounding the 2026 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, which Madrid will host from 11-13 September, and which has already resulted in the sale of more than 120,000 grandstand and hospitality tickets. Analysis of ticket purchaser data shows that more than 80,0...