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Major Sporting Events
As Birmingham and the West Midlands gears up to host the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, there has never been a better time to host your event in our region. Centrally located in the heart of the UK, our unrivalled connectivity, combined with our array of world class sports venues and exceptional lifestyle offer, will leave a lasting impression.
In 2022, Birmingham will be host to the Commonwealth Games, this has led to a programme to boost the long-term economic impact made by the Games. The Business and Tourism Programme (BATP) will build on the profile created by the Games to attract more visitors, trade, events and investment into Birmingham, the West Midlands, and the UK. It will concentrate on nations and territories across the Commonwealth, plus the domestic UK market.
Keep reading to discover some interesting fun facts about sport in the region, download our Major Sporting Events Delivery Plan here and stay tuned to witness our ambitious plans unravel.
Did you know:
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Rugby in Warwickshire is known throughout the world as the birthplace of the game. It was in the market town in 1823, while playing football at his school, that William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran. This moment, which took place on The Close at Rugby School, is the origin of Rugby Union, Rugby League, and American Football. Today, you can visit the momentous spot and dedicated museum.
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Lawn tennis was invented and first played in Birmingham over 150 years ago. Major Harry Gem created the game with JBA Perera in a back garden in Ampton Road, Edgbaston. Today, the city hosts a crucial Wimbledon warm-up tournament at the Edgbaston Priory Club.
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In 1888, William McGregor of Aston Villa FC invited other clubs to play regularised games of football, the creation of the Football League.
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Villa Park, Aston Villa’s home since 1897, was the first English ground to stage international football in three different centuries.
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Villa Park has hosted more FA Cup semi-finals than any other club stadium.
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The Belfry’s Brabazon golf course has hosted more Ryder Cups than any other venue
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Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham’s oldest international sports venue, staged its first Test Match in 1902 when Australia were bowled out for 36 runs. Edgbaston is said to be the England cricket team’s favourite ground, famously hosting the thrilling two-run victory in the second Test of the famous 2005 Ashes series
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St. George’s Park in Burton-upon-Trent is home to England’s 28 national football teams
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Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is still one of the leading players in the development of sporting trophies, including the Wimbledon men’s and ladies’ tennis trophies, the FA Cup, Lonsdale champion belts in Boxing, Premier League football medals and the 1948 Olympic torch
Discover venues below or contact the team directly to discuss your next event.
Tel: +44 (0)121 202 5100 | Email: bcb.conferencesales@wmgrowth.com
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