Initial strategic assessment commissioned into potential bid for Olympic and Paralympic Games in the North of England in the 2040s
The government has commissioned its expert arm’s-length body UK Sport to carry out an initial strategic assessment examining whether the UK could host an Olympic and Paralympic Games in the North of England during the 2040s, as part of an ambitious growth drive to use sports to power regeneration of towns and cities.
Initial work examining whether the UK could host the Games for the first time since London 2012 will assess key factors such as potential cost, socioeconomic benefit and any bid’s chance of success. The Government firmly sees major sporting events and sporting facilities as playing a key role in driving economic growth, regeneration, improving pride in place, and bolstering the UK’s global appeal.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:
The UK has a phenomenal pipeline of major sporting events to look forward to. This summer alone brings the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. In 2027, the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grands Départs will be the most accessible major sporting event ever held in Great Britain. UEFA EURO 2028 is forecast to generate £3.2 billion in socioeconomic benefits - creating jobs, driving regional growth, and drawing a surge of international visitors to communities the length and breadth of the country.
The Government is already backing bids to host the World Athletics and Para-Athletics Championships in 2029, as well as the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, as part of its commitment to driving a decade of change in women’s sport.
Alongside more than £500 million invested into the delivery of major sporting events, the Government is making a serious and sustained commitment to grassroots sport. At least £400 million is being invested in community facilities across the country, ensuring that the legacy of every major event is felt far and wide.
Additional Quotes:
Chair of The Great North, North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said:
Richard Masters, Premier League Chief Executive said:
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Initial Strategic Assessment on an Olympic and Paralympic Games bid:
Major Sporting Events Bill:
Lord McConnell Appointment: