[Source: West Midlands Growth Company] Birmingham and the West Midlands’ sporting offer and major events hosting expertise will be thrust back into the global spotlight from 7-11 April when it welcomes the SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit at ICC Birmingham.

Nearly two years on from hosting the biggest-ever Commonwealth Games, the West Midlands will roll out the red carpet for more than 1,500 international delegates from 120 sporting federations to showcase why it is at the heart of sport in the UK.

From basketball, bobsleigh and bodybuilding to tennis, triathlon and taekwondo, presidents and CEOs from global sporting organisations will visit Birmingham and the West Midlands for SportAccord’s conference programme, which includes specialist streams CityAccord, HealthAccord, LawAccord and MediaAccord. The summit will also feature panel events, evening networking sessions and a keynote speech during the event’s opening ceremony from International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, ahead of the year’s biggest sporting celebration, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “The SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit offers a huge opportunity for the West Midlands’ people, venues and suppliers to come together and put on a great show for international sports leaders, continuing the positive buzz and legacy of the Commonwealth Games.

“Our region has world-class sporting infrastructure, unrivalled connectivity and a passion and knowledge for hosting major events. We will be showing visiting officials and senior delegates why the West Midlands deserves to sit at sport’s top table when they are picking the destination for their next championships, conference or business event, which will provide a welcome boost for our local businesses and communities.”

With less than two months to go until “sport’s most influential industry gathering”, final touches are being made to the summit’s event programme focusing on this year’s theme, the ‘power of sport’, and speaker list. The programme already includes Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman MBE; Secretary General of the World Union of Olympic Cities, Melanie Duparc; and CEO of Global Esports Federation, Paul Foster.

The West Midlands’ cultural, tourism and sporting credentials will also be on show for SportAccord delegates as part of an excursion programme, which will include the region’s Industrial Revolution story at Black Country Living Museum and Ironbridge Gorge; and its arts and literary heritage at Shakespeare’s Birthplace and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The region’s instrumental role in shaping Britain’s sporting tradition – having invented rugby, lawn tennis and the Football League, and hosted the forerunner to the Olympic Games in Much Wenlock – will be covered during a sporting tour, to include Villa Park and Edgbaston Stadium.

Cllr John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The SportAccord Summit 2024 is a fantastic opportunity for Birmingham to showcase the city and provides the chance to bring people together.

“The city has world-class sporting facilities, which have hosted some fantastic events including the Commonwealth Games, IBSA World Games and the FIG Trampoline Gymnastics World Championships, plus with our famous reputation as a friendly city, we can guarantee a warm Birmingham welcome to all visiting delegates.”

The West Midlands has recently hosted some of global sport’s biggest spectacles, including the Rugby World Cup, The Ashes and the FIG World Trampoline Championships. The ESL One – Dota II esports tournament in Solihull (26-28 April); the European Judo Union Junior Cup in Walsall (15-19 June); and the Kabaddi World Cup (24-31 March 2025) are a snapshot of the sporting fixtures taking place in the West Midlands in the next 12 months, thanks to the region’s Major Events Fund.

SportAccord 2024 will also present opportunities for companies, brands, products, services and destinations to showcase their offer as part of a dedicated exhibition, running in parallel with the summit at ICC Birmingham. Companies and individuals, which provide cutting-edge governance, research, advisory services, sports tech, insurance and fan engagement across the business of sport are encouraged to contact the West Midlands Growth Company to receive more information about getting involved: partners@wmgrowth.com. 

Interested parties can visit the official website here to register their interest in attending.

Host City: What do you think are the main considerations for rightsholders deciding where to host events? 

Jason Siegel: While this could vary by rightsholder, for the most part, they are looking for a host city that will deliver a world-class experience for their constituents, athletes, officials, and partners and a city that will drive desired net revenue back to the rightsholder.

Using Orlando as an example, our tourism ecosystem seamlessly works together – hoteliers, restauranteurs, elected officials, transportation providers, and attraction operators all work closely to ensure a smooth and successful event for all stakeholders. This strong working relationship is reflected in the 74 million visitors who enjoyed Orlando in 2022 alone, a testament to our city’s ability to deliver.

When it comes to infrastructure, Orlando boasts an impressive 35+ sports venues across the region, ensuring flexibility and adaptability to your specific needs. With over 200,000 hotel rooms, timeshares, and vacation rentals, we can easily accommodate athletes, officials, and fans.

Ultimately, while rightsholders seek world-class experiences and revenue generation, they also value a collaborative and engaging environment. With its proven track record of hosting major events, experienced local organizing committee, and collaborative community spirit, Orlando stands out as the ideal choice to deliver on all fronts.

Host City: Why did Orlando want to host the US Olympic Trials for Marathon?

Jason Siegel: The opportunity to host an Olympic qualifying event fit perfectly in our strategic plan and aligns with our goal of bringing world-class sporting events to Orlando.

We also wanted to shine a spotlight on Downtown Orlando and boost the local economy. We are very proud of our incredible community here, and our economic impact so far has been tremendous. We also were confident in the return on investment the event would bring and the media value of hosting a nationally televised event.

We were thrilled that the event drew over 100,000 spectators. With the robust running community here in Orlando, we knew this event would be well-received not only by fans of the sport but by everyone.

Host City: What are Orlando’s wider event hosting ambitions?

Jason Siegel: From Premier League clashes like Aston Villa vs Fulham and international giants like Juventus and Real Madrid facing off in the Florida Cup to the electrifying spectacle of WrestleMania and the inspirational 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, Orlando has a proven track record of hosting major sporting events. We've also welcomed the pinnacle of wakeboarding and waterskiing with the IWWF World Championships in 2021 and 2023. These, alongside over 1,600 other events since 1993, demonstrate our commitment to driving economic impact, showcasing Orlando's vibrancy, and benefiting our residents and businesses.

With our elite venues and facilities, coupled with the entertainment powerhouses of Disney and Universal, Orlando offers an iconic backdrop for world-class events. We enjoy strong partnerships with local government and are passionate about collaborating with all stakeholders to bring even more exciting sporting experiences to our city, encompassing youth/amateur, Olympic, collegiate, international, esports, and everything in between.

Host City: How will you look to capitalise on the 2026 FIFA World Cup and LA28?

Jason Siegel: We have a longstanding relationship with FIFA and the USOPC, and both organizations know they can always count on Orlando to deliver exceptional results.

As Madrid comes back into contention for the Olympic Games, Spyros Capralos, President of the European Olympic Committees (EOC) expressed hope that the city will bid for the European Games.

Speaking to Spanish news agency EFE following an EOC Executive Committee meeting in Madrid, Capralos said: "What we hope is that one day Spain joins the map as the organizing country of the European Games. I know that there are many cities that have the necessary infrastructure.

"On the path to organizing Olympic Games in the future, the European Games are a good step to then move forward."

His comments came as Madrid re-entered the fray as a potential host of the 2036 Games. Following the city’s securing of Formula One, the President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso said: "Who knows if it will help us to attract other major events? The Olympics perhaps? We're working on it."

Capralos said: "Spain is one of our most important members. Its Olympic committee is very actively involved and always has a place in our Executive. President Alejandro Blanco is highly respected, not only in Europe, and the general secretary, Victoria Cabezas, makes very valuable contributions. Madrid joins a growing list of candidates to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"The new IOC rules reduce the cost in many aspects, especially in construction. And we want to set a good example for society in terms of sustainability. Having many candidates is good."

Unlike the IOC, the EOC does not have many candidates for its flagship event, but it has a strong candidate for the 2027 European Games in Istanbul, which is also bidding for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. "We are going to receive here in Madrid a delegation from Turkey, from the municipality of Istanbul, to discuss a candidacy that is very good. We will go to the city soon, before granting them the Games. It makes us very happy that a great country like Turkey wants to organize the Games.

"In today's world it is very difficult to attract candidates to organize multi-sport competitions. But the Poland Games [in 2023] were a great success, with top-level athletes qualifying there for the Paris Olympics. And federations, Olympic committees and athletes have already realized its importance."

The EOC and Istanbul are in discussions with the federations of gymnastics and swimming about their possible inclusion in the 2027 program. "Gymnastics and swimming are, of course, big competitions and both European federations want to be at the Games. I am sure that artistic and rhythmic gymnastics will return to the programme and we are discussing an under-23 swimming competition," said Capralos.

"We do not want to insist on sports that force organizers to build new venues. At most, to reform them at a lower cost. This way we will attract more cities in the future."

[Source: FIFA] FIFA has revealed the match schedule for the FIFA World Cup 26™, with the final to be held in New York New Jersey on Sunday, 19 July 2026 and the opening match featuring the Mexican national team scheduled to be played at the iconic Estadio Azteca Mexico City on Thursday, 11 June 2026. Like Mexico, the national teams of Canada and the United States will each play their three group-stage matches on home soil. Canada will kick off their campaign in Toronto on Friday, 12 June 2026, while the United States will begin their journey on the same day in Los Angeles. The schedule for the tournament was revealed live on Sunday and can be reviewed on FIFA.com and FIFA+. The match schedule can also be accessed here.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “The most inclusive and impactful FIFA World Cup ever is no longer a dream but a reality that will take shape in the form of 104 matches in 16 state-of-the-art stadiums across Canada, Mexico and the USA. From the opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca to the spectacular final in New York New Jersey players and fans have been at the core of our extensive planning for this game-changing tournament.” “I would like to thank our three host countries and 16 Host Cities for the unwavering commitment to staging a FIFA World Cup that will not only set new records but also leave an indelible legacy.”

FIFA Vice-President and Concacaf President Victor Montagliani said: “The FIFA World Cup 26 will be a watershed moment and one that will trigger massive football development in our region and worldwide. While each Host City is unique, they all have something in common – they are passionate about football and cannot wait to welcome the world in June and July 2026.” The tournament’s innovative match schedule will serve to minimise travel for teams and fans alike, while the number of rest days between fixtures will be maximised. Having been drawn up in consultation with key stakeholders, including national-team coaches and technical directors, the schedule will also increase the prospect of matches being played in the best possible conditions and ensure that fans have shorter travel times when following their teams. Match pairings and kick-off times will be confirmed following the Final Draw for FIFA World Cup 26, which is expected to take place towards the end of 2025.

FIFA World Cup 26 match schedule – summary:

• FIFA World Cup 26 to kick-off at the iconic Estadio Azteca Mexico City on Thursday, 11 June 2026, with the final scheduled for Sunday, 19 July 2026 in New York New Jersey.
• Toronto, Mexico City, and Los Angeles to host the opening matches of their respective national teams.
• Canada, Mexico, and the United States guaranteed to play their three group-stage matches on home soil, with Guadalajara, Vancouver, and Seattle also selected to stage host countries’ group-stage matches.
• Miami to host the bronze final, Dallas and Atlanta to stage the highly anticipated semi-finals, while Dallas will host nine (9) matches – the most of any Host City at the tournament.
• Innovative match schedule ensures that three days of rest for teams is observed for 103 of the tournament’s 104 matches. Majority of matches to be played in three regionalised zones (east, central and west) to reduce travel for teams and fans.
• Group stage:

- First matchday of the tournament to feature two matches, including the tournament curtain-raiser in Mexico City and a match in Guadalajara. - Day two to feature two matches involving hosts Canada and the United States respectively. - The final four matchdays of the group stage will feature six matches per day. Matches in the same group will be played simultaneously to maintain the integrity of the competition. - All other group-stage matchdays will feature four matches per day across four kick-off times.

• Estadio Azteca Mexico City set to host opening match for the third time, making FIFA World Cup history as the first stadium to do so.
• Canada will host its first FIFA World Cup, complementing its proud history of hosting top FIFA women’s and youth tournaments, including the successful FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015™.
• USA to host FIFA World Cup for the second time, following record-setting 1994 edition. USA has also hosted two successful editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup (1999 and 2003).

Fans can pre-register for FIFA World Cup 26 tickets at fifa.com/tickets. Pre-registration for information about hospitality packages is available at fifa.com/hospitality.

Further details on the match schedule are available in the FIFA World Cup 26 match schedule Q&A.

[Source: IOC] The International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Gangwon 2024 Organising Committee (YOGOC) and the Gangwon-do Province, with the support of the Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology (MSIT), announce the launch of a metaverse focused on the Winter YOG Gangwon 2024 as an extension of the Gangwon-do Province’s Metaverse.

This unique virtual world offers a variety of interactive experiences to users all over the globe, helping to make Gangwon 2024 as inclusive and accessible as possible, particularly for young fans.

From virtual tours of the venues to games and challenges where fans can compete against other users in online mini games of ski jumping, bobsleigh and curling, the Gangwon 2024 Metaverse enables fans to engage with the YOG in new and exciting ways.

Users based in the Republic of Korea will also be able to enjoy streaming of sporting events.

The metaverse also provides an opportunity to meet and interact with other fans around the world as well as inspiring visitors to try new winter sports and learn about the Olympic values.

To ensure the metaverse is as accessible as possible, it features automatic translation of six languages (Korean, English, Spanish, French, Japanese and Chinese), while users are also able to create custom avatars for their digital experience.

This includes the ability to choose from 30 different characters featuring a variety of customisation options, such as hairstyles, body shapes and clothing options.

These avatars are also able to express a range of emotions – including joy, love, sadness, surprise and anger – while users are also able to make their character perform a variety of dances: hip-hop dance and a YOG-related dance.

Once they have created their custom avatar, users are able to freely move around the 3D virtual world, where they can visit digital recreations of nine YOG venues including fantastical elements, the Youth Olympic villages, and four tourist attractions in the host region.

Gangwon 2024 will also have a “Metaverse Experience” at the Gangneung Green City Experience Centre, where visitors will be able to virtually experience some of the winter sports with simulators, graphic panels and virtual reality kit.

The Winter YOG Gangwon 2024 will take place from 19 January to 1 February 2024, with approximately 1,900 athletes from 81 National Olympic Committees expected to take part.

Fans who want to see the next generation of potential winter sports stars can now apply for their tickets for Gangwon 2024 on tickets.gangwon2024.org.

The economic benefits of hosting major sporting events

When BBC News interviewed an Australian tourist in the heart of Birmingham city centre during the 2022 Commonwealth Games and received the response…

“It is totally different to how I expected it. I expected it to be industrial and horrible buildings. And it is amazing. I didn’t expect it to be so multi-cultural. I’ve loved it.”

…in one soundbite, it perfectly hammered home the importance of hosting major sporting events. They change perceptions, they get people talking about an area, and they encourage visitors to explore and enjoy a destination, and return.

Just as importantly, though, is the fact that big domestic and international major sporting events and championships equal big business for a city and region. You only have to look at a 2021 report ‘The impact of major events on London’s economy’ by London & Partners and Hatch to appreciate the huge benefits that sporting spectacles can bring.

Between 2017-20, England’s capital city hosted 757 events, including 305 sporting events, which brought an injection of £2.51billion into its economy, including £2.27 billion in visitor expenditure on items such as accommodation and food and drink.

Sport overall is a significant player in the UK economy. It contributed £48.9billlion gross value added (GVA) pre-pandemic, accounting for 2.6% of the UK total (source: The Power of Events).

The role of the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the Business and Tourism Programme 

The wonderful celebration of sport and culture served up by the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games played a huge role in stimulating the West Midlands’ visitor economy as well as the sports economy and supply chains. 

It is not just about sports events and tourism, of course. The success of Birmingham 2022 and the results of the Business and Tourism Programme (BATP) – the first of its kind to be aligned to a Commonwealth Games – demonstrate that there is a much broader impact of hosting major sporting events on business growth, inward investment, jobs and skills.

In the 2022/23 financial year, the West Midlands attracted more foreign direct investment projects than Scotland and Wales combined, and bucked the national trend of a decline in FDI-related jobs.

Soft power

As the post-pandemic race to attract more major sporting events hots up, we are increasingly seeing evidence of ‘soft power’ playing a major part. The notion of a region’s ability to win sporting bids not through coercion or payment, but through the attraction of its culture, initiatives, values and policies, has the potential to boost the UK’s economy by at least £4billion by 2030.

That’s according to EY’s ‘The impact of major sport events: Study of soft power, trade and investment impacts’ report, which used Birmingham 2022 as a case study to highlight the event’s wider benefits for the West Midlands and UK.

The Games showcased “the UK as a leading economy and player within the Commonwealth that is open for business post-Brexit” and promoted “important agendas such as equality and sustainability”. The event also helped to build, leverage and reinforce vital relationships on a regional, national and international scale to “showcase industry and commitment to air quality”, “capitalise on Commonwealth connections”, “generate the feel-good factor seen at London 2012 and Glasgow 2014” and “work with embassies, DIT (now DBT) and VisitBritain (to deliver international tourism)”.

The French novelist Marcel Proust once wrote “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes” and hosting the Commonwealth Games has given the West Midlands and its people a new-found confidence and can-do attitude.

We told a story of welcome, inclusion and rebirth, which helped to change our self-perception of what we can achieve. We were – and continue to be – driven by purpose and impact, and are guided by our values to be innovative, youthful, inclusive, diverse and collaborative.

We have always said that last summer’s sporting spectacular must represent a starting point and not the finish line, and we are starting to build from that strong foundation in 2022 to create an exciting decade of opportunity. That means capitalising on the West Midlands’ venues and infrastructure – which, when combined, rival any city region in the world.

These range from shining new venues like Sandwell Aquatics Centre to Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium. The region also boasts iconic sporting settings like The Belfry and Edgbaston Stadium, and world-class arenas such as the NEC, Resorts World Arena and Utilita Arena. Its Premier League and EFL stadiums Molineux, Villa Park, St Andrew’s, The Hawthorns, Coventry Arena and the Bescot Stadium regularly host domestic and international football fixtures.

Across the West Midlands region, not only do we have the infrastructure, we have the passion, knowledge, experience and expertise to welcome and host events of any size or duration, and our efforts are starting to gain recognition.

Having appeared for the first time in the prestigious BCW Ranking of Sports Cities in 2022, Birmingham has improved its ranking to 33^rd this year. In a new report by Quantum Consultancy and Durham University Business School, Birmingham is the top English sporting destination for event hosting – highlighting the attention that the city has gained from athletes, fans and sports organisations on a global scale.

The SportAccord summit

Winning the right to host the prestigious SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit at the ICC next April – bringing together senior policy and decision makers from the top tier of world sport – has the potential to increase the West Midlands’ ranking among global major sporting event destinations even higher.

You only have to look at the numbers. We anticipate more than 1,500 international sports leaders and key decision makers to come together for six days in Birmingham and across the West Midlands, and it’s crucial that we put on a show for organisers and delegates.

In the lead up to, during and after hosting the summit, we will have direct access to the unique network of global sporting organisations that SportAccord represents – from the highest levels of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) through to 15,000 individual sporting federations and an estimated 50,000 event properties.

The most successful previous hosts of SportAccord – including the Gold Coast in 2019, which is now set to play a key role in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – have leveraged this network and developed new relationships to build a strong pipeline of future hosting opportunities.

By showcasing the visitor experience for athletes, coaches, teams, spectators and fans – and promoting our great West Midlands venues, connectivity and expertise – we plan to make the maximum impact to provide a springboard for our future. It is an event, which will generate valuable opportunities for towns and cities across our region.

Walsall will seek to build on the town’s status as the home of British Judo by attracting other martial arts governing bodies, while Wolverhampton will aim to add to its rollcall of sporting fixtures, which currently includes boxing, darts and snooker. Solihull’s esports credentials and Sandwell’s state-of-the-art Aquatics Centre will also be on show as our destinations work towards bringing more high-profile sporting events to the region.

The West Midlands’ sporting calendar

To coin a sporting phrase, we have already put points on the board in our efforts to maintain momentum following the 2022 Games and keep the West Midlands in the global sporting spotlight.

We have an enviable platform, on which to build. Our sporting calendar includes the British Basketball League Trophy Finals, the Netball Super League, the All England Open Badminton Championships, Esports and gaming, Horse of the Year Show, World Indoor Athletics, snooker’s Players Championship, European judo and the International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games. This summer, more than 100,000 fans packed into Edgbaston Stadium for the thrilling first Test of the Ashes.

Looking ahead, the World Trampoline Championships in November, the first Kabaddi World Cup outside Asia in 2025 and the 2026 European Athletics Championships will entice even more sports tourists to enjoy the region’s offer.

If you also include the International Working Group (IWG) World Conference on Women & Sport 2026, and the launch of our £6million major events fund to attract more major events for the West Midlands, then we are already reaping tangible rewards.

The West Midlands is starting to wake up to its massive potential as a major sporting events host. Its distinctive history has already set the pace – from inventing lawn tennis and rugby to the creation of the Football League and forerunner of the modern Olympic Games.

Now, more than a century on, with world-class ‘ready to go’ facilities, multi-billion-pound advances to its infrastructure and a young, diverse population ready to embrace the region’s next big championships, the West Midlands is set to make the cut, step up to the plate and mix it with the established global sporting destination heavyweights.

Denmark's passion for cycling is not limited to the Start of the Tour de France. The nation's commitment to hosting major international cycling events extends to various disciplines within the sport, reflecting a deep-rooted love for cycling. Next year in Denmark, cyclists and riders will unite, qualify and participate in the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. Denmark bids for both a World Tour for men and women 2025-2027, and the 2029 UCI Road World Championships. Alongside Denmark's bid for the 2029 UCI Road World Championships and the World Tour, the country has also demonstrated a strong commitment to hosting the 2024 UCI World Track Championships, and the 2025 UCI BMX World Championships.

Denmark's cycling legacy

Denmark's affinity for cycling is deeply ingrained in its culture, dating back over a century. Beyond the road races, the country has embraced cycling across various disciplines, making it a hub for both professional and recreational riders. Whether it's road cycling, track cycling, or BMX, Denmark has consistently produced world-class athletes and offered a conducive environment for enthusiasts to thrive. With a comprehensive network of cycling paths and a fervent cycling community, the country's dedication to the sport is unparalleled.

The national sporting event organization, Sport Event Denmark, has been part of the journey for more than 15 years from the early stages of the bidding process over the preparation stages to the staging and evaluation.

 In 2011, Denmark hosted the UCI BMX World Championships in Copenhagen, providing riders with a world-class track and enthusiastic spectators. In 2025, the event returns to Copenhagen. Hosting the World Championships underlines Denmark's dedication to promoting BMX and fostering the next generation of riders. The successful organization of the event in 2011 and the upcoming hosting of the 2025-edition is another testament to the country's commitment to different cycling disciplines, not just road cycling.

“Sport Event Denmark has been an integral part of the ride for more than 15 years, accompanying Danish national federations and host cities from the early stages of the bidding process through to meticulous preparation, event staging, and rigorous evaluation. Together, we've cemented Denmark as a global cycling hub, and we're ready to pedal into an even more exciting future," said Lars Lundov, CEO, Sport Event Denmark.

Promoting cycling in all its forms

Denmark's bid to host the 2029 UCI Road World Championships is a continuation of its tradition of promoting cycling in all its forms. The prospect of hosting the road championships, alongside the track and BMX events, solidifies Denmark's reputation as a cycling haven. The 2029 bid is backed by strong government support, as well as a comprehensive plan that includes well-designed race routes, logistical support, and a commitment to sustainability, all aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the event.

“Denmark's bid to host the UCI Road World Championships in 2029 and the ambition to host a World Tour for men and women 2025-2027 is a testament to the country's commitment to cycling. The events would provide a perfect platform to showcase Denmark's scenic landscapes and well-maintained cycling infrastructure. Hosting the Championships and World Tours would not only boost the country's tourism but also brand Denmark as a sporting event nation and destination. Finally and foremost, Denmark will offer the World of Cycling the very best staging for the benefits of riders, teams, and spectators,” said Lars Lundov.

Denmark the hub of Scandinavia

Denmark is easy to get to and easy to get around in. Denmark's geographical location further underlines its position as a prime host for various cycling events. Its proximity to cycling powerhouses like Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany offers easy access for participants and fans alike.

Denmark's unique geographical location in Northern Europe is a key factor in its ability to host a wide array of cycling events. Nestled amidst Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, Denmark's position is strategically advantageous. This proximity offers cycling enthusiasts and professionals easy access to international events, fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and competition.

Denmark's efficient and well-connected transport network ensures that participants, spectators, and their equipment can move seamlessly from one event to another. International airports and a comprehensive train system make it easy for riders and fans to traverse the country, creating a cohesive and interconnected cycling community.

Denmark's commitment to sustainability extends to cycling events as well. Efforts are made to minimize the environmental impact of these events, showcasing the country's dedication to responsible event hosting. Sustainable initiatives include waste management practices, and a focus on minimizing the carbon footprint of the championships.

Denmark equals cycling events

“With Denmark’s rich cycling history, government support, and strategic location, Denmark is well-positioned to create memorable and successful events, inspiring the global cycling community and bringing the UCI Road World Championships back to the scenic Danish landscape. Should Denmark's bid be successful, it will not only be a celebration of cycling but also a showcase of Denmark's commitment to hosting world-class sporting events. Denmark equals cycling events,” concluded Lars Lundov, CEO, Sport Event Denmark.

"Denmark equals cycling events" is not just a statement; it's a testament to Denmark's unwavering commitment to hosting and celebrating the world of cycling. With a legacy that spans over a century, Denmark has become synonymous with cycling events, showcasing excellence in various disciplines. The Danish passion for the sport, coupled with their strategic location in Northern Europe, has turned Denmark into a global hub for cyclists and riders, both amateur and professional.

As we look ahead, Denmark's reputation as a premier host nation for cycling events continues to grow, promising an even more exciting and dynamic future for the cycling community worldwide.

Upcoming cycling events in Denmark

2024 UCI Gran Fondo Svendborg. 08/06/2024 - 09/06/2024 | City: Svendborg

2024 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. 28/08/2024 - 01/09/2024 | City: Aalborg

2024 UCI Track World Championships. 16/10/2024 - 20/10/2024 | City: Ballerup

2025 UCI BMX World Championships. July 2025 | City: Copenhagen

Bidding for

2025-2027 World Tour, Men & Women, Copenhagen

2029 UCI Road World Championships

Host City: We’re really looking forward to hearing you speak at Host City 2023. What are your expectations of this important event?

Consuelo Sanchez: As an emerging destination striving to create brand and destination awareness, our expectations for the 11th global Host City Conference in Glasgow are centered on networking, learning, exposure, partnerships, inspiration, and the development of a long-term vision.

We anticipate valuable networking opportunities with industry experts, rightsholders, and potential partners, as well as discovering adaptable best practices for our unique situation. With distinctive qualities setting Florida's Sports Coast apart, we aim to use this conference to showcase these unique selling points that make us an attractive choice for events.

Our aspiration is to gain fresh ideas and a renewed sense of purpose in our journey to be recognized as a respected event destination. This event is pivotal in establishing ourselves as such and securing our position as a hub for sports events.

Mathew Ratner: Maimi is as global brand and in order to keep the destination top of mind, we need to showcase ourselves to the world and there’s no better place than to be at Host City to meet and learn from the leading industry professionals that will be in attendance.

Host City: What role do events play for your local audiences and society?

Consuelo Sanchez: Sporting events play a multifaceted and significant role in the life of Florida's Sports Coast, Pasco County, FL, enriching both local audiences and our society. These events have far-reaching effects on various aspects of our community; they stimulate economic growth by drawing visitors who spend on accommodations, dining, and more, supporting local businesses and jobs. These events also promote community engagement, social cohesion, and cultural exchange, fostering a sense of togetherness and diverse cultural experiences. Furthermore, they offer opportunities for education, better quality of life by inspiring healthier lifestyles, and contributing to the region's infrastructure development. In essence, sporting events enhance the quality of life, cultural enrichment, and the overall well-being of our community.

Mathew Ratner: Sporting events play a significant role for local audiences and society in Miami, as they do in many other cities around the world. Sporting events provide a source of entertainment and recreation for residents. Miami is home to several professional sports teams, including the Miami Dolphins (NFL), Miami Heat (NBA), Miami Marlins (MLB), and Inter Miami CF (MLS), as well as numerous college and amateur sports teams. These teams offer a wide range of sports for fans to enjoy, from football and basketball to baseball and soccer.

Sporting events can have a significant economic impact on the local economy. Miami attracts tourists and visitors from around the world to attend games and events. These visitors spend money on tickets, concessions, hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses, contributing to job creation and economic growth in the region. Miami's status as an international sports destination attracts high-profile events, such as FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl, Formula 1, World Baseball Classic, NASCAR and major tennis tournaments, showcasing Miami to a global audience, boosting the city's tourism industry, and promoting it as a desirable place to visit and live.

Host City: What are the other elements of your event hosting strategy going forward?

Mathew Ratner: Our event hosting strategy for Florida's Sports Coast combines diversification, infrastructure investment, marketing, community engagement, partnerships, and post-event evaluation. We prioritize diversifying our portfolio by hosting a broad spectrum of events, including youth, adult, conventional, and non-conventional sports, as well as adaptive sports. This approach helps us attract a wide range of athletes and spectators while supporting underserved sports audiences.

Furthermore, we are committed to investing in sports infrastructure through the construction and renovation of top-notch facilities. This not only appeals to event organizers but also benefits our local sports community.

In terms of marketing, we leverage digital platforms, social media, and collaborations with event organizers to showcase Pasco County's unique attributes and emphasize our dedication to hosting successful events.

Collaboration with sports organizations, event planners, and local businesses is integral to our approach, as these partnerships contribute to effective event management and positive experiences for all involved. After each event, we conduct thorough evaluations to gather feedback and insights, facilitating continuous improvement and better experiences for all stakeholders.

In our pursuit of event hosting excellence, we are firmly focused on building long-term partnerships. By fostering these enduring relationships, we aim to provide not only memorable experiences but also sustainable, mutually beneficial connections for event organizers and their participants. Our commitment to the long-term is a cornerstone of our strategy, ensuring that we continue to be the preferred destination for years to come.

Mathew Ratner: Miami is a diverse and multicultural city, and sports can serve as a unifying force that brings people from different backgrounds together. People of all ethnicities and backgrounds come together to support their teams and countries, fostering a sense of unity and cultural integration.

Miami is known for hosting a wide range of sporting events from world-class marathons to dragon boat racing. There is a venue in Miami that can suit most major events that don’t involve snow –

and we can probably create that environment if we need!

We’ve always had a strong sense of community and when a major event comes into town, the destination comes together to put on the best event possible. This collaborative community effort is essential to Miami’s success in hosting events.

About The Florida Sports Foundation

The Florida Sports Foundation, a 501(C) 3 non-profit corporation, is the official sports promotion and development organization for the State of Florida. It is charged with the promotion and development of professional, amateur, recreational sports, and physical fitness opportunities that produce a thriving Florida sports industry and environment. With a seemingly endless list of sporting ventures and venues, the Florida Sports Foundation strives to promote Florida’s unique sports industry. The Foundation’s staff is dedicated to serving the needs and interests of Florida’s sports community and assists with all questions concerning Florida sporting activities and issues.

For more information visit: https://playinflorida.com/

Host City: How important are events for tourism and economic growth in Atlantic Canada?

Stefanie Turner: Events are fundamental drivers of tourism and economic growth in Atlantic Canada. They serve as magnets, attracting visitors from various regions, both nationally and internationally. These visitors contribute significantly to the local economy by spending on accommodations, dining, transportation, and other goods and services. Events generate revenue not only through ticket sales but also by promoting local businesses and products while enhancing the region's marketability. Furthermore, events create jobs and stimulate investments, providing a vital boost to the economy of Atlantic Canada.

Host City: How would you describe the social and cultural impacts that major events can achieve?

Stefanie Turner: Major events have the power to transform communities socially and culturally. They foster a sense of pride and unity among residents, encouraging active participation and volunteerism. These events celebrate the unique cultural heritage of Atlantic Canada, showcasing its traditions, arts, and culinary delights. They provide a platform for local artists and musicians to display their talents, preserving and promoting the region's cultural identity. Major events often incorporate educational components, raising awareness about local history, environmental conservation, and social issues, contributing to a more informed and socially conscious society.

Host City: How important is partnership work for you as an organization? What are your key relationships and how do you go about nurturing them?

Stefanie Turner: Collaborative partnerships are vital for Event Atlantic's success. We engage in close cooperation with various government entities at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels, as well as national organizations such as Sport Tourism Canada and Festivals and Major Events.

Our collaborations extend to venues, community organizations, the local supply sector, and dedicated sponsors, all of whom play a crucial role in ensuring the success of our organization and the events hosted by our members. Establishing strong relationships with these stakeholders is built upon principles of open communication, mutual respect, and shared objectives. We actively involve our partners in our organization's growth planning process through our 'Meeting of the Minds' working groups.

We publicly recognize their valuable contributions via our Excellence Awards Program and create networking opportunities and collaborative sessions at our annual Event Summit. Additionally, we host regular meetings with our federal and provincial partners, fostering connections not only between us and them but also among the partners themselves. We firmly believe in the power of mutual learning, acknowledging that everyone has something valuable to share.

Our partnerships serve as platforms for this reciprocal education, driving the entire industry forward through shared knowledge and experiences.

Host City: The theme of Host City 2023 is “Driving and Reacting to Change.” What are the major changes that are impacting event hosting in Atlantic Canada?

Stefanie Turner: Certainly, the landscape of event hosting in Atlantic Canada is undergoing significant transformations due to several key factors. There is a heightened emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, with event organizers increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices and initiatives to reduce their ecological impact. Additionally, the integration of technology has become a prominent trend, enhancing the overall event experience for attendees and expanding the reach of events to a larger audience. Furthermore, there is a growing focus on inclusivity, diversity, and social responsibility, with events becoming platforms to celebrate various cultures and traditions.

However, challenges such as staffing and volunteer shortages pose hurdles in organizing these events effectively. Moreover, inflation has impacted budgeting and financial planning for events, requiring careful consideration of resources. Another noteworthy change is the extension of the event hosting season into shoulder months, allowing for more diverse and year-round event opportunities. Alongside this, there is a positive shift in perception, with increased recognition of the positive impact that event hosting can have on the local community.

Communities are understanding the economic and social benefits, fostering a more supportive environment for events. In this evolving landscape, sponsors are also changing their approach, preferring experience over exposure when approached for support. This shift indicates the importance of creating meaningful and engaging event experiences that resonate with both sponsors and attendees, emphasizing the value of the event beyond mere visibility. These collective changes are shaping the future of event hosting in Atlantic Canada, driving the industry towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and impactful direction.

Host City: What kind of changes are you looking to bring about as an organization?

Stefanie Turner: Event Atlantic is dedicated to instigating positive change within Atlantic Canada. We are actively working towards establishing stronger hosting partnerships among neighbouring municipalities and provinces, shifting from traditional competition to collaborative efforts.

This approach will pave the way for Atlantic Canada to host larger-scale events, contributing significantly to the region's growth. Our focus lies in supporting the creation of memorable and impactful experiences for event attendees.

Concurrently, we are committed to fostering a more sustainable, inclusive, and socially conscious event landscape in Atlantic Canada. To achieve this, we will continue to provide extensive professional development opportunities tailored to current industry needs, develop essential resources for the Atlantic Canadian event industry, actively promote the region, and continue to celebrate the contributions of those individuals and organizations that enhance the success of events in Atlantic Canada.

Through these initiatives, we are determined to elevate the event industry in the region and leave a lasting positive impact on Atlantic Canada. To find out more visit https://eventatlantic.ca/

More than 200 owners, organisers and hosts of the world’s greatest events gathered in Glasgow, Scotland at Host City 2023 under the theme “Driving and Reacting to Change”.

Artificial intelligence, climate change and Generation Z were among the concerns addressed by representatives of Paris 2024, Milano-Cortina 2026, LA28, Cirque de Soleil, FIFA and many more.

The 10th edition of Host City, the greatest meeting of cities and sports, business and cultural events, took place at the Technology & Innovation Centre on 20-21 November with the support of Global Presenting Partners and Hosts, Glasgow Life and EventScotland. Attendees came from Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

In her opening remarks, Susan Deighan, Chief Executive, Glasgow Life, said: “High profile events undoubtedly contribute to a city’s economy and identity and over the past two decades Glasgow has cemented its reputation as the perfect location for international events.

“Glasgow is a pioneer and an architect of its own future which has led the way in reacting to change.”

“Looking ahead, how will host cities respond to ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion are not just fashionable buzz words?

“We must commit to collectively making a genuine effort to drive the change that celebrates access for all.”

Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events, VisitScotland, covered a range of topics in his opening remarks including governance, sustainability and the impact of technology.

“AI and other technologies are a having a transformative impact on events but the balance between automation and human interaction will be key considerations to understand and navigate going forward,” said Bush.

He also impressed on the audience both in his opening remarks and in the panel discussion on the strategic development of destinations through sport and events, the challenge around funding and the importance of demonstrating the impact of events through robust measurement.

“We are all very privileged to work in this sector but as I have said previously, I would encourage all of you to continue to extoll the values and benefits of the sector to ensure that our funding partners whoever they may be, governments, commercial or the paying spectator continue to support and be excited by events!” he said.

David De Behr, Head of Sales, Major Events, Aggreko, said the events industry had been on a “rollercoaster” over the past four years.

“We went from 2019 where the world was exploding with events to the darkest period ever where we had to react to just survive. And here we are at the end of 2023 – a year that has been massive.  It has been bigger than 2019 and it has been non-stop.  More and more sporting events, bigger music festivals and larger conferences.

“I am confident that our industry will drive and react.”

There were a total of 60 speakers across 20 panels and presentations addressing the most pressing concerns in the industry today. 

Vikram Philip Rajkumar, Account Director at Satisfi Labs, outlined the impact of AI across sports, entertainment and tourism.

“AI is not coming – it is here,” said Rajkumar.

“Whether you integrate it or not, your fans and consumers are going to bring it to your doorstep and demand those services.”

Petra Sörling, IOC Member and International Table Tennis Federation President and Damien Combredet-Blassel, Director of Impact & Heritage of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee participated on a panel focusing on the strategic development of destinations through sport and events.

Combredet-Blassel underlined the efforts of Paris 2024 to get people active in France with an initiative that promotes 30 minutes of exercise a day, which drew praise from Sörling.

"We need to activate people, so what Paris is doing is brilliant,” said Sörling.

“If people are active, they are more keen to watch sport and stay active which is good for the city.”

Hilary Ash, Vice President of Games Delivery & Infrastructure at LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games, was also among the speakers.

She gave an overview of the use of existing venues and the Games Plan including the sports programme and venue mapping.

“We are at a really exciting pivot," said Ash, following the confirmation that cricket, squash, lacrosse, flag football and baseball/softball will be the additional sports at LA28.

“We are in the operational delivery phase and going into a greater level of detail now we have a formal masterplan.”

Giulio Alessandrini, Director of Venues & Infrastructure, Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, outlined the overlay infrastructure plans and the challenges facing the event, including global warming that threatens the future of winter sport.

“Climate change is a hot topic and the Winter Olympics rely on the climate,” said Alessandrini.

"We don’t know how much snow will be there in 2026 but we are trying to plan as much as possible.

"We are improving snow-making technologies."

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society highlighted the disparity in investment between major short-term sporting events, which move around the world, and resident arts festivals.

“I feel that we host the cultural Olympics in Edinburgh,” said McCarthy.

Ben Avison, Conference Director at Host City, said: “We’re delighted to be back to pre-pandemic attendance levels for Host City. 

“We are clearly in a different world in terms of the pressure on public sector expenditure, which impacts heavily on our events industry, so we are extremely pleased to have such good numbers at Host City in Glasgow, Scotland.

“It has been great to hear how the industry is driving change in areas including policy objectives, fan engagement and digital twins for event planning, but in other areas such as artificial intelligence and climate change we are still reacting to change.”

Reporting by Geoff Berkeley.

Host City 2023 took place with the support of Global Presenting Partners and Hosts EventScotland and Glasgow Life. For further information contact ben.avison@hostcity.com