Tuesday, December 3Sports. Travel. Events

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Padel breaks in London: intensive padel weeks at Rocks Lane
England, Holidays & Trips, London

Padel breaks in London: intensive padel weeks at Rocks Lane

Each month padel players from around the world come together at Rocks Lane Padel Academy in Chiswick, west London, for a week of padel training and cultural exploration.  Whether you’re just starting your padel journey or looking to improve your competitive edge, the week-long intensive training programme at Rocks Lane is designed for players of all levels. At its venue in Chiswick, you will find the biggest padel tennis facility in London – with 12 padel courts, including four covered courts, a clubhouse with cafe, changing rooms, soft play and social areas. Under the expert guidance of Álex Grilo, a former World Padel Tour (WPT) player and one of the UK’s most respected coaches, you’ll receive personalised coaching to help elevate your game. The sessions focus on technique, strate...
Global sports tourism market to hit $2.4 trillion by 2030 – report
Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel

Global sports tourism market to hit $2.4 trillion by 2030 – report

The global market for sports tourism was estimated at $1.1 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.4 trillion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2023 to 2030, according to the Sports Tourism - Global Strategic Business Report published by ResearchAndMarkets.com. The growth in the sports tourism market is driven by several factors, including the rising popularity of international sports events and competitions, technological advancements in travel planning, booking platforms, and customer experience, and the increasing focus on promoting adventure sports, ecotourism, and experiential travel. The need to provide unique, engaging, and culturally enriching sports tourism experiences for diverse traveller demographics is driving the demand for sport...
Sport hotels: F1 race weekend at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sport hotels: F1 race weekend at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Formula 1 fans can watch the 2024 season finale in style at W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, the five-star hotel located within the Yas Marina Circuit. Taking place from 5-8 December 2024, the F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix could see the world championship go down to the wire and the hotel has several packages available to witness the events on the track.  W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island promises a weekend filled with unparalleled excitement. With seven high-octane venues pulsing with energy, guests can look forward to a mega line-up of entertainment, featuring world-class artists and Yas Island's most thrilling parties and brunches.  Those staying at the hotel during race weekend or attending the brunch will enjoy complimentary access to Yasalam's after-race concert of the day showc...
ASM Global and PDC expand Premier League Darts partnership to 2027
Stadiums & Venues

ASM Global and PDC expand Premier League Darts partnership to 2027

Following record-breaking ticket sales for the 2025 BetMGM Premier League Darts season, venue management company ASM Global and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) have announced a major new partnership.  Five of the UK’s most iconic venues – AO Arena Manchester, Utilita Arena Newcastle, First Direct Arena Leeds, Utilita Arena Sheffield, and P&J Live Aberdeen – will continue to host Premier League Darts until at least 2027. These arenas are renowned for their unique atmosphere and remain firm favourites with fans. Aberdeen first hosted Premier League Darts in 2006, with the new P&J Live venue introduced in 2020. Newcastle and Sheffield joined the circuit in 2007, followed by Manchester in 2008. Leeds made its debut in 2014, setting a record attendance of 11,000 fans. ...
The Ocean Race 2027 to finish on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia 
Events

The Ocean Race 2027 to finish on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia 

AMAALA, a new sport and wellness destination located in the northern part of the Red Sea on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, will host the finish of the 15th edition of The Ocean Race in the summer of 2027. The Ocean Race – the mixed-crewed, offshore sailing race around the world first contested in 1973 – is known as the toughest test of a team in sport and for its award-winning ocean health initiatives.  In the build-up to the 2027 race finish, The Ocean Race and Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer of AMAALA and the regenerative project partner of The Ocean Race since 2022, will collaborate on ocean science and ocean health initiatives as well as ocean literacy and education programmes aimed at youth in the region, in line with the UN Ocean Decade Challenge of restoring society’s ...
Video: Glasgow to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games
Editor's Pick, Events, Scotland

Video: Glasgow to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has confirmed that the Scottish city of Glasgow will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Glasgow has stepped as host of the 23rd edition after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out. The event in Glasgow will be held from Thursday 23 July to Sunday 2 August 2026, returning to the city 12 years after the hugely successful 2014 Commonwealth Games.  Glasgow 2026 will feature a 10-sport programme concentrated across four venues within an eight-mile corridor, ensuring an action-packed broadcast schedule across each day of competition and making the event accessible and appealing to spectators looking to enjoy the multi-sport environment and festival feel. With more than 500,000 tickets to be made available at a future date, there will be around 3,0...
Courmayeur Mont Blanc set for 2024-2025 ski season 
Guides

Courmayeur Mont Blanc set for 2024-2025 ski season 

Courmayeur Mont Blanc, nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, will launch its eagerly awaited 2024-2025 ski season on 5 December 2024.  A charming ski resort boasting a rich calendar of events set against a backdrop of breathtaking snow-capped mountains, Courmayeur is an ideal destination for sports travellers in search of adventure and outdoor experiences. Activities in Courmayeur include heliskiing, off-piste and cross-country skiing, ice skating, fat biking in the scenic Val Ferret, hiking, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and climbing. The Italian ski resort is conveniently accessible from major international airports in Geneva, Turin, and Milan. With more than 43km of pistes and elevations approaching 2,800 metres, it features enticing ski packages from top tour operators like Mom...
Wildfitness Retreat 2025 at Forte San Giorgio in Italy
Holidays & Trips

Wildfitness Retreat 2025 at Forte San Giorgio in Italy

Forte San Giorgio, a private fort situated on the Italian island of Capraia, will host a Wildfitness Retreat in 2025. This secluded island escape, set in the Tuscan archipelago, sleeps 20 people, with Mediterranean views and an authentic local cultural scene, and can be booked as part of a retreat or for private group hire.  Wildfitness is a UK-based retreat experience that runs courses in Somerset, Menorca and Capraia, based on three core principles: respecting the body's natural rhythms, healthy eating and a holistic approach to movement, using the local environment as a natural gym. The team runs several retreats over the year, staying at the fort and taking full advantage of the island's unique natural character.  How to book  In 2025, two seven-day courses will take pla...
Portes du Soleil: a winter sports travel guide
Guides

Portes du Soleil: a winter sports travel guide

The 2024-2025 winter sports season marks a monumental milestone for the Portes du Soleil, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. Nestled between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, just an hour from Geneva, the Portes du Soleil remains one of the largest and most celebrated ski areas in the world. Spanning the Franco-Swiss border, the ski paradise boasts 12 resorts, offering skiers and snowboarders the unique opportunity to glide seamlessly between France and Switzerland.  All 12 resorts in the Portes du Soleil can be easily accessed from Geneva Airport. A six-day lift pass for the Portes du Soleil area is priced from €336 for adults, €252 for children and €302 for seniors (web prices, until 28 March 2025). See more at portesdusoleil.com   Portes du Soleil: the 12 resorts  Avoriaz (Fran...
Surf City El Salvador: a world-class surfing destination
Editor's Pick, Guides

Surf City El Salvador: a world-class surfing destination

Nestled along the pristine Pacific coastline, El Salvador’s “Surf City” offers a paradise for surfers and adventure seekers. With consistent waves, warm waters, and a laid-back atmosphere, this destination is gaining global recognition and regularly hosts major events on the International Surfing Association (ISA) and World Surf League calendars. Surf City El Salvador is fast becoming one of the top destinations for surfers worldwide, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, it has something for everyone. Best surfing spots Punta Roca: Known as the crown jewel of El Salvador's surf scene, Punta Roca is a world-class right-hand point break. The waves are fast and powerful, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The rocky coastline enhances t...
3rd World Sports Tourism Congress to be hosted by Real Madrid in November
Sports Business

3rd World Sports Tourism Congress to be hosted by Real Madrid in November

UN Tourism, the specialised agency for tourism within the United Nations, has announced that Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium will host the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress from 28-29 November 2024.  Jointly organised by UN Tourism and the Government of the Region of Madrid, this year’s congress will be held under the theme of “Tourism and Sport Creating a Lasting Legacy for Destinations”.  Bringing together stakeholders from across the sectors, the event in Spain’s capital city will focus on best practices in sports tourism, including its economic impact, contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and strategies for effectively promoting destinations through sports events and sponsorships. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHJaqsnmK00&t=1s ...
Legends El Clásico: Qatar Airways offers unique holiday packages for Doha fixture
Holidays & Trips

Legends El Clásico: Qatar Airways offers unique holiday packages for Doha fixture

Qatar Airways, in partnership with Qatar Tourism, has announced unique travel packages for football fans to witness a special Legends El Clásico match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid on 28 November 2024 at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha. The packages are inclusive of return flights, accommodation and match tickets, seamlessly allowing global fans to travel to Doha and watch the legends from various eras of Spain’s biggest sports rivalry. To book flight plus hotel packages to Doha with match tickets for the Legends El Clásico see qatarairways.com/elclasico The legends match will take place during an action-packed week of sport for Qatar, which also stages the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix from 29 November to 1 December 2024. Steven Reynolds, Qatar Airways ...
Visit Anaheim showcased with Anaheim Ducks away jersey sponsorship
Sports Business

Visit Anaheim showcased with Anaheim Ducks away jersey sponsorship

The Anaheim Ducks and Visit Anaheim have announced a new partnership agreement, beginning with the 2024-2025 National Hockey League (NHL) season, that sees the tourism organisation’s logo feature on the team’s away jerseys.  Visit Anaheim, the official sales and marketing organisation for the Californian city, will be the first ever partner to have its logo featured on a Ducks away shirt. As the Ducks travel during the 2024-2025 season, Visit Anaheim will be showcased to hockey fans across North America. This partnership represents a commitment to promoting Anaheim as a world-class travel destination, driving continued tourism growth.  Mike Waterman, president and CEO of Visit Anaheim, said: “It’s an honour to be the first away jersey sponsor of the Anaheim Ducks, marking a sig...
Tennis 2025 calendar: next grand slam and big tournaments
Calendars, Events

Tennis 2025 calendar: next grand slam and big tournaments

In this tennis events calendar we start by taking a look at the dates of the four grand slams in 2025 – plus some of the big tournaments taking place around the world during the year. The next grand slam is the Australian Open from 6-26 January 2025 at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia. The 2025 tennis grand slam season will feature the four iconic major tournaments that define the sport: the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. These tournaments will bring together the world’s top players, offering fierce competition across hard, clay, and grass surfaces.  The Australian Open kicks off the year from 6-26 January 2025 at Melbourne Park. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and extreme summer heat, it’s played on fast hard courts and often sets the ton...
Cairngorms National Park tourism brands launch winter travel campaign
Scotland, Sports Business

Cairngorms National Park tourism brands launch winter travel campaign

More than 370 tourism organisations in the Cairngorms, Scotland, have joined forces to promote the UK's largest National Park as the ultimate winter travel destination for 2024.  Led by Cairngorms Business Partnership (CBP), the Cairngorms National Park Where Winter Comes to Life! campaign is showcasing more than 1,700 square miles of Highland winter wonderland filled with seasonal magic, including the UK's only free ranging reindeer herd at Glenmore, Balmoral Castle & Estate at Crathie, Aviemore Ice Rink, Tomintoul & Glenlivet Dark Sky Park, Dalwhinnie Distillery, Landmark Forest Adventure Park at Carrbridge, Loch Insh Outdoor Centre at Kincraig and the Highland Wildlife Park. The CBP is working with tourism businesses across the region to help extend the season and bring b...
Hero Dubai Desert Classic 2025: tickets launched as Rory McIlroy confirms title defence
Events

Hero Dubai Desert Classic 2025: tickets launched as Rory McIlroy confirms title defence

Northern Irish golf star Rory McIlroy has confirmed that he will defend his title at the 2025 Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Tickets have also launched for the DP World Tour men's golf event, which will take place at the historic Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, UAE, from 16-19 January 2025. Excitement is building among golf fans as the World No.3 aims to become the first ever five-time champion of the Desert Classic. Previously a tournament winner in 2009, 2015, 2023 and 2024, McIlroy will aim to lift the Dallah Trophy for the third consecutive time, and fifth overall. McIlroy will headline a world-class list of competitors at the prestigious Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour’s 2025 Race to Dubai schedule, which offers a $9 million prize pool. McIlroy said: “I’m thrilled to be return...
IAGTO launches three global golf tourism conventions for 2025
Sports Business

IAGTO launches three global golf tourism conventions for 2025

IAGTO – the International Association of Golf Tour Operators – has announced Danang in Vietnam, Gran Canaria in Spain, and Alabama in the US as the host destinations for its three global golf tourism conventions taking place in 2025. Established in 1997, IAGTO is the global trade organisation of the golf tourism industry with more than 2,200 member companies in 92 countries, including 662 golf tour operators in 68 countries, responsible for more than 90% of all golf vacation packages sold worldwide.   The three conventions confirmed for 2025 are:  11th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) in Danang, Vietnam, from 2-4 April 2025  3rd IAGTO European Convention (IEC) in Gran Canaria, Spain, from 19-21 May  2025  16th North America Golf Tourism Con...
Dubai: a sports travel city guide
Guides

Dubai: a sports travel city guide

Dubai has established itself as a global sporting hub, hosting a variety of major events and festivals and offering numerous activities for sports enthusiasts to enjoy. As well as its year-round sports events calendar, Dubai also boasts natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor adventures and experiences. Sports activities in Dubai Running and hiking Runners don’t need to miss out on any training when visiting Dubai. The city offers a variety of scenic running routes that cater to different skill levels and preferences, and hosts events such as Dubai Run on 24 November 2024, part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, and the Dubai Marathon on 12 January 2025. One of the most popular running spots in Dubai is the green springy track which starts at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and s...
World Travel Awards 2024: world’s leading sports tourism destination nominees
Editor's Pick, Sports Business

World Travel Awards 2024: world’s leading sports tourism destination nominees

World Travel Awards has announced the 20 nominees shortlisted for the World's Leading Sports Tourism Destination 2024 award – with voting is now open ahead of November’s gala ceremony.  In 2023, Qatar’s capital city Doha was the winner of the award, ending Abu Dhabi’s winning run from 2013 to 2022. Dubai (2012) and South Africa (2011) have also previously won the title.  Five nominees have also been announced for the World’s Leading Sports Academy 2024 award. The nominees are Aspire Academy in Qatar, Cascade Wellness Resort in Portugal, Forte Village Resort in Italy, Francisco Grande Hotel and Golf Resort in the USA, and La Manga Club in Spain. Voting is now open until 20 October 2024 for both categories, with the winners revealed at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala ...
G Golf Ireland’s guide to Dublin’s best golf courses 
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

G Golf Ireland’s guide to Dublin’s best golf courses 

Dublin is the main gateway to Ireland with more than 30 million passengers passing through its international airport every year. Founded by the Vikings more than 1,000 years ago, Ireland’s capital is now a bustling, vibrant city that has grown up among its ancient heritage.  There are more than 100 golf courses within the greater Dublin area so there is plenty of choice. Golf travel company G Golf Ireland has picked out its favourite golf courses in Dublin to consider as part of your next golfing trip to Ireland. Portmarnock Old: Multiple host of the Irish Open, the Walker Cup, the Amateur Championship and this year's Women's Amateur Championship, Portmarnock is considered to be the most famous Dublin venue. A very fair test of pure links golf, Portmarnock ranks at No.37 in the...

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