Wednesday, March 4Sports. Travel. Events. Play

Latest news and events

Elevate your sporting experience in Paris
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts, Venues & Stadiums

Elevate your sporting experience in Paris

Seine-Saint-Denis was the beating heart of Paris 2024 and a major reason why the French capital has been ranked the world’s top sports city in 2025. Ramy James Salameh discovered the reinvention of the northern Parisian suburbs accelerated by the Olympics. Let me set the scene. I was swimming in France’s highest pool, some 140 metres above the ground beneath a neon sign declaring ‘head in the clouds’ and beside floor-to-ceiling windows looking out upon the gleaming venues of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. I’d checked into the H4 Hotel Wyndham Paris Pleyel Resort in Seine-Saint-Denis a part of northern Paris which encompasses a collection of suburbs beyond the Périphérique, now boosted by the Olympics and evolving into a symbol of creative energy, cultural renewal and sporting legacy...
Ultimate ski bucket list: skiing under the Northern Lights tops poll
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Trends

Ultimate ski bucket list: skiing under the Northern Lights tops poll

A survey by ski holiday specialist Heidi has revealed the No.1 ski bucket list experience for UK skiers. Topping the list by a considerable margin is skiing under the Northern Lights, voted the must-do adventure across all age groups.  Participants rated 30 iconic ski experiences they’d love to tick off at least once in their lifetime. The magic of gliding across snow while the aurora dances overhead scored almost twice as highly as the average activity – making it the undisputed favourite.  In second place was another nocturnal thrill: night skiing under the stars, followed by tackling the world’s longest on-piste run – the legendary 22km descent from Klein Matterhorn to Valtournenche in the Zermatt-Cervinia ski area, crossing the Swiss-Italian border.  Interesting...
GCC sports tourism to surge as PwC highlights growth opportunities
Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel, Trends

GCC sports tourism to surge as PwC highlights growth opportunities

Forecast to surpass $2 trillion by 2030, the sports tourism sector is being propelled by mega-events, high-spending fans, active lifestyle movements and the rise of immersive, experience-led travel. But nowhere is this transformation more visible – or more strategically leveraged – than in the countries that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). According to “Game on for the GCC: Turning sporting ambition into lasting tourism impact”, a new report by PwC Middle East, the region has shifted beyond merely hosting world-class sporting events. It is now developing an integrated sports tourism economy – one that spans infrastructure investment, destination branding, digital innovation and year-round community engagement.  From Saudi Arabia’s record-breaking Esports World Cup, Qatar’...
A guide to cycling in Dubai 
Editor's Pick, Guides, Trends

A guide to cycling in Dubai 

Cycling in Dubai has evolved from a niche weekend pastime into one of the city’s fastest-growing lifestyle trends. Transformed into a world-class destination for cyclists of all levels, purpose-built tracks now weave through deserts, beachfronts and urban skylines, offering everything from leisurely scenic rides to high-performance training grounds.  Whether you’re a recreational rider looking for a safe morning loop, a commuter seeking eco-friendly alternatives, or a road cyclist chasing personal bests, Dubai delivers in style. From the sweeping Al Qudra desert trail to the bustling Nad Al Sheba and Meydan circuits, the city combines immaculate infrastructure with year-round sunshine and a thriving cycling community.  Where to ride in Dubai Located in the desert ap...
All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027
Editor's Pick, Events, Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027

With Europe clinching a dramatic Ryder Cup victory over the USA at Bethpage Black, all eyes now turn to Ireland as the countdown begins for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, where golf’s greatest team event will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Team Europe stars Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy played pivotal roles in New York, with Lowry delivering the decisive half point that ensured Europe retained the coveted trophy in front of packed galleries. Ireland’s Ryder Cup roots run strong, with Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Darren Clarke among recent captains, having also provided unforgettable moments such as McGinley holing the winning putt in 2002 and Clarke’s performance at the K Club in 2006, when Ireland last hosted the event. The Island of Ireland is no stranger to hostin...
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz unveils new Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique
Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz unveils new Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique

The Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, a five-star luxury hotel located in the Engadin valley in St. Moritz, has unveiled the Kulm Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique for winter 2025-2026. A reimagining of the traditional ski room, where pioneering design meets alpine performance, every detail sets guests up to enjoy their time on the mountains, from “avant-ski” rituals to peak performance equipment and ski concierge services.  Designed by Foster + Partners, the introduction of the Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique is the first phase in a transformational new era for the iconic Kulm Hotel – the place that makes winter and continues to shape the future of luxury in the Alps. Heinz Hunkeler, general manager, said: “Kulm Hotel St. Moritz has been the original winter playground ever since we ...
Verbier, Switzerland: a winter sports travel guide for 2025-2026
Guides

Verbier, Switzerland: a winter sports travel guide for 2025-2026

Verbier, an Alpine village in Switzerland’s Valais Canton, is set to deliver one of its most ambitious ski seasons yet. From November 2025 right through to the end of April 2026 – a total of 151 skiable days – winter sports lovers will have half a year to carve up Switzerland’s most iconic terrain. Weekend-only access starts the season in November before the full lift system opens daily from early December. High-altitude pistes up to 2,700m and extensive snowmaking (63% coverage) make for reliable conditions from the first snowfall to spring’s final après-ski. Two rapid gondolas whisk skiers from the 1,500m village to summit terrain in under 11 minutes – meaning powder laps before breakfast are practically a given. Verbier anchors the 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest linked ski ar...
Seat Unique completes acquisition of Circuit Hospitality
Sports Business

Seat Unique completes acquisition of Circuit Hospitality

Premium ticketing platform Seat Unique has completed the acquisition of Bristol-based business Circuit Hospitality in a move that reflects the rapid growth of the UK’s premium experience economy and rising demand for live experiences. By bringing Seat Unique and Circuit Hospitality together, fans will now have greater access to premium experiences across some of the UK’s most iconic events and venues, including Manchester United Football Club, Wembley Stadium, and Everton Football Club. The acquisition significantly expands Seat Unique’s network of rights holder partnerships, creating more choice, more availability and more ways for fans to enjoy unforgettable live moments. It also enables rights holders to reach new audiences, unlock additional revenue, and deliver an enhanced premium ...
Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026

Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026

Glasgow 2026 (officially the XXIII Commonwealth Games) returns the Games to Scotland after Glasgow’s successful 2014 event. The city will stage a streamlined, cost-conscious edition following the withdrawal of Victoria (Australia) as host; organisers emphasise financial sustainability, reuse of existing venues and a tight, fan-friendly footprint. An estimated ~3,000 athletes from around 74 Commonwealth associations are expected to attend. When Victoria pulled out amid cost concerns, Glasgow stepped in with a plan built around existing facilities and a smaller programme. The Commonwealth Games Federation and Scotland’s partners backing the bid have focused on delivering the atmosphere and TV-ready competition of the Games while avoiding the large capital outlay typical of recent multi-sp...
Sports travel bucket list: rent an ultra-luxury ski chalet for €550,000 per week
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: rent an ultra-luxury ski chalet for €550,000 per week

If your winter sports dreams include carving down world-class slopes by day and retreating to your own private Alpine palace by night, this one’s for the bucket list. London-based The Luxury Chalet Company has unveiled its most opulent winter portfolio yet – a collection of chalets so lavish they redefine what après-ski luxury means. With properties starting from €30,000 per week and soaring to an astonishing €500,000 per week (and sometimes beyond), these chalets are the ultimate in mountain indulgence. Guests can expect indoor swimming pools, private spas, cinema rooms, gyms, games lounges, wine cellars, and even grand pianos, alongside butlers, chefs, chauffeurs, and personal concierges. Cameron Temple, founder of The Luxury Chalet Company, said: “Our clients are looking for the u...
Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express

For golf travellers who believe the journey should be every bit as memorable as the destination, the “Italian Swing” voyage aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is a bucket list experience like no other. This four-day, three-night adventure fuses world-class golf with the romance of slow luxury travel – a rolling celebration of Italy’s landscapes, cuisine, and culture. Unveiled as part of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express’s series of curated Italian itineraries, the Italian Swing offers an indulgent round trip from Rome to Apulia, Siena, and Perugia, showcasing Italy’s finest fairways in cinematic style. Think golden Tuscan hills, medieval towns, coastal vistas, and evenings of exquisite dining – all wrapped in the timeless elegance of a train that redefines old-world glamour. Onbo...
Sports travel bucket list: Fitness Hub at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: Fitness Hub at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan has unveiled its new Fitness Hub, a dedicated space perched above the Ayung River that unites modern training methods with restorative therapies. It is the only jungle sanctuary in Bali to offer both time-honoured healing traditions and advanced recovery therapies in one seamless experience. Part of the growing global movement towards longevity tourism, the Fitness Hub blends recovery-focused travel and immersive nature experiences to promote vitality, balance, and long-term wellbeing. Here, guests can flow seamlessly from ancient Balinese healing rituals to high-tech recovery in one of the world's most serene river valleys. Set high above the river valley, the new Fitness Hub offers complimentary access to a light-filled gym with panoramic jungl...
Sports travel bucket list: Iglu Cruise NFL-themed cruise holidays
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: Iglu Cruise NFL-themed cruise holidays

Sports and sea adventures come together as Iglu Cruise unveils an exciting new collection of NFL-themed cruise holidays. This first-of-its-kind offering allows travellers to combine luxury cruising with the thrill of attending a live NFL game in the USA – a dream trip for sports and travel fans alike. Natalie Draper, Head of Marketing Partnerships at Iglu Cruise, said: “We’re so pleased to bring fun extra activities to our cruise customers. This is a first for us, and we’ll be watching sales closely to see how the idea lands. We know our customers love overseas sporting occasions, such as attending a Grand Prix, so this feels like a natural next step.” With packages that include flights, hotels, transfers, cruise meals, and NFL game tickets, these itineraries make for a seamless and ...
LEVEL UP Sports Tech Innovation Expo Dubai

LEVEL UP Sports Tech Innovation Expo Dubai

LEVEL UP, a first-of-its-kind Sports Tech Innovation Expo created in partnership between the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) and Global MICE Organisation Limited (GMOLx), will take place from 27-29 November 2025 at Dubai Harbour. Designed to convene more than 10,000 attendees from around the world, the expo will unite a powerful mix of athletes, sports federations, startups, investors, brands, innovators, media and celebrity personalities. The event aims to accelerate innovation, strengthen industry collaboration and reinforce Dubai’s global standing as a premier hub for sports, entertainment and technology. With the Middle East and Africa sports tech market projected to reach US$3.3 billion by 2030, Dubai offers a strategic gateway into this fast-growing sector. The emirate’s sports indu...
Men’s golf: Hero Dubai Desert Classic 2026

Men’s golf: Hero Dubai Desert Classic 2026

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is one of the most prestigious events on the international golfing calendar. Celebrating its 37th edition in 2026, the DP World Tour event promises an exciting week of world-class golf, featuring top players from around the globe. The tournament will be held from 22-25 January 2026 at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai.  Reigning champion and European Ryder Cup star Tyrrell Hatton has confirmed that he will return to defend his title. He will tee it up in the event for the 11th time in his career and joins already announced reigning Masters Champion and career grand slam winner Rory McIlroy in the field for the first Rolex Series event of the 2026 Race to Dubai. Hatton secured the half point that sealed the win for Europe in the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, as he ...
Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates to open in Dubai in 2030
Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates to open in Dubai in 2030

Hotel group Mandarin Oriental has announced that its first dedicated golf resort – Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates – will be located in Dubai, UAE. Opening in 2030 and featuring branded residences, the luxury golf and wellness resort will be the group’s third property in the city and uniquely positioned within Jumeirah Golf Estates’s next phase of development.  When it opens its doors, the Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai will comprise 121 spacious rooms and suites. In addition, there will be 97 branded residences ranging from three- to six-bedroom villas, each with its own amenities and private access to a lounge, meeting space, pool and fitness areas. A highlight of the resort will be The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, presenting an extensive range of the group’s...
Innsbruck: a sports travel city guide
Editor's Pick, Guides, Holidays & Trips

Innsbruck: a sports travel city guide

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the city of Innsbruck is a dream destination for those who love sports travel, outdoor adventures and culture – all in one compact location. From twice hosting the Winter Olympic Games to offering hiking, swimming, and panoramic sightseeing in the summer and autumn, it's not surprise that Innsbruck is nicknamed the ‘Capital of the Alps’. Skiing in Innsbruck Innsbruck, capital of Austria’s western state of Tyrol, is one of Europe’s premier ski destinations. Uniquely blending alpine adventure with urban culture, the city offers access to 13 ski areas within the Innsbruck Ski Plus Region, all covered by a single ski pass. From challenging off-piste terrain to family-friendly slopes, Innsbruck caters to skiers and snowboarders of every level.  ...
Phygital Games of the Future 2025 Abu Dhabi

Phygital Games of the Future 2025 Abu Dhabi

From 18-23 December 2025, Abu Dhabi will host the Phygital Games of the Future (GOTF) – an international spectacle where the worlds of physical sport and digital gaming collide in the groundbreaking format known as phygital sports. Set to take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), GOTF 2025 promises to be a high-octane fusion of elite competition, cutting-edge tech, and global entertainment. Combining top-tier athleticism with elite gaming skills, this annual tournament attracts the best competitors from around the world to battle it out across multiple disciplines, all for a shot at glory and a multi-million-dollar prize fund. With a strong focus on innovation, inclusivity, and spectacle, GOTF is shaping the future of sport on a global stage. At the heart of GOT...
Sports travel bucket list: ‘Highland Icons’ golf breaks at Links House
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Highland Icons’ golf breaks at Links House

The UK's most northerly luxury destination has launched 'Highland Icons' golf breaks on the world-famous North Coast 500 for autumn and spring. The five-star Links House at Royal Dornoch has created the ultimate stay-and-play packages for passionate golfers looking for a world-class experience within easy access of four championship level courses listed amongst the UK's top 100. Located just one hour from Inverness Airport, Links House is easily accessible for a two or three-night golf break from London, Manchester, Bristol and Belfast.  As well as sitting less than 100 yards from the first tee at Royal Dornoch, the legendary Links House is also well-placed within 30 minutes of Brora, Tain and Golspie golf courses.  Whether you're escaping for a competitive few days with frie...
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...

EVENTS IN FOCUS