In 2026, the world’s biggest sporting events are offering more than just seats in the stands. They're opportunities to explore some of the most exciting cities and regions across the globe, turning major tournaments into memorable holidays. From winter sports in Italy to endurance events in the Middle East, the sporting calendar is packed with dates worth planning around.
The Olympic Games in Italy
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics run from 06 to 22 February 2026, with events across northern Italy. In Milan, you can enjoy fashion districts, historic galleries and a delicious dining scene between alpine skiing and snowboarding events. Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Dolomite mountains offer beautiful scenery and classic winter sport settings, with opportunities to visit nearby lakes such as Como and Garda before or after the Games.
Football on a Global Stage in North America
Football takes centre stage with the FIFA World Cup 2026, running from 11 June to 19 July 2026 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Matches will be hosted in major cities including Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, Vancouver and Mexico City. Each destination offers its own appeal, from cultural landmarks and neighbourhood food scenes to natural attractions and coastal escapes, making it possible to combine match days with city exploration and experience the distinct character of each country.
Rugby and Festival Energy in Dubai
The Emirates Dubai 7s returns from 27 to 29 November 2026, bringing elite rugby sevens competition to the United Arab Emirates. This three-day festival of sport, music and entertainment is one of the highlights of the rugby calendar. Dubai itself is a destination filled with variety. You can explore traditional souks, visit cultural districts like Al Fahidi, relax on Jumeirah’s beaches or embark on a desert safari between match days.
Football Cities Across Europe
Football continues to inspire journeys across Europe in 2026, with league seasons running through early spring and into May. Clubs such as Arsenal FC in London, Real Madrid in Spain, AC Milan in Italy, Olympique Lyonnais in France and S.L. Benfica in Portugal all play key domestic fixtures between January and May 2026, with cup competitions like the Emirates FA Cup adding extra opportunities to see top-level football. Pair match days with sightseeing, local food and neighbourhood culture.
World Baseball Classic in Tokyo
The 2026 World Baseball Classic, taking place from 5 to 10 March 2026, brings the world’s top players together as they step away from their professional teams to compete for their home countries. Held every three to four years, the event brings together 20 nations from across the globe and turns Tokyo into a focal point for international baseball. National pride drives the atmosphere, with fans cheering louder with every play and every game delivering high-energy moments, while the city itself offers plenty to explore, from street food in Shinjuku and Tsukiji Outer Market to historic temples in Asakusa, cherry blossom-lined parks and the bright lights of Shibuya.
Endurance sport in Abu Dhabi
From 13 to 22 February 2026, Abu Dhabi will host the World Triathlon Multisport Championships, bringing endurance disciplines together across a nine-day schedule. While following the race action, you can also take in cultural highlights like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and island beaches that line the emirate’s coast.
Across continents and sporting codes, 2026 offers a calendar filled with moments worth planning around. Contact your local Travellers Choice agent to book your next global sporting event trip.
