From venues with historic significance to sprawling outdoor spaces and adaptable, state-of-the-art facilities, the West Midlands provides an unforgettable experience and is a natural home for sporting fixtures and championships.
With ambitions to achieve net zero by 2041, the region's commitment to sustainability, health and wellbeing permeates across the breadth of the sporting industry.
The West Midlands is home to an incredible selection of sporting venues. Whether you need large stadiums, a world-class swimming pool, adaptable event spaces or something on a smaller scale, there is an ideal venue for you and your event right here.
A winning spirit and a rich legacy
The West Midlands has a track record in executing large-scale sporting spectacles, from the largest Commonwealth Games held in the UK to the excitement of recent Cricket and Rugby World Cups, the FIG Trampoline Gymnastics World Championships and IBSA World Blind Games. The region also hosted the most recent edition of the SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit.
Looking ahead, the forthcoming Kabaddi World Cup in 2025, European Athletics Championships in 2026, Invictus Games in 2027 and European Football Championships in 2028 are just a snapshot of the prestigious sporting events that have chosen this region to play host.
The Birmingham and West Midlands Pass is a fantastic, convenient and cost-effective way for visiting sports fans, officials and guests to make the most of their time in the region and see all the top attractions and experiences.
Capturing the hearts and minds of diverse audiences
The West Midlands, home to a population of more than 4.7 million, has access to fans at unprecedented proximity and scale. This includes not only the loyal and passionate fanbase who have cheered for generations, but also newcomers and novices. With 32% of its population under 25 and residents from nearly 200 countries calling it home, the West Midlands is a beacon of inclusion and diversity.
A destination led by innovation, the West Midlands is making strides in the Metaverse. The region creates 25% of the UK's games output and is a thriving global esports hub.
UK-leading connectivity
The West Midlands boasts unrivalled connectivity with Birmingham Airport linking to 400 global destinations and 90% of the country within a four-hour drive-time.
The region is affordable and accessible, offering great value for money compared to London across transport, dining, groceries and real estate. Its visitor experience includes a unique culinary scene featuring 11 Michelin-starred restaurants, vibrant performances at the Royal Shakespeare Company and Birmingham Royal Ballet, and more than 44,000 bed spaces.
The West Midlands sits enviably at the heart of the UK's road network with 90% of the population within a 4 hour drive time.
Birmingham Airport is just 10 minutes from Birmingham city centre by train and the region is well-connected by rail to all major UK cities. Birmingham New Street is the busiest station outside London.
A passion and knowledge for Major Sporting Events
The West Midlands foresees an ambitious future for its sport industry, with its Major Sporting Events Delivery Plan outlining the region's impressive goals and a £6m major events fund.
Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau - together with long-standing local events companies and venues - consistently work with major sporting event organisers to ensure events run smoothly and successfully.
