2025's Upcoming Can't-Miss Sporting Events for the Global Enthusiast
In a year brimming with global uncertainty and rapid change, sport remains one of the few constants that unites us - elevating moments of brilliance, inspiring national pride and offering a front-row seat to the best of human endeavour. For those who appreciate excellence and narrative-rich experience, 2025 is a sporting year worth planning around. Whether you're there in person or watching from a curated lounge with fine wine and select company, these are the 15 sporting events across 11 sports to pencil into your diary for the rest of 2025.
In the World of Tennis
There is something undeniably special about Wimbledon in early July, when London comes alive with tennis whites, champagne flutes and quiet anticipation. From 30 June to 13 July, the All England Club becomes the epicentre of global sport, where the ritual of strawberries and cream, the soft hush before a serve on Centre Court and the quiet elegance of Henman Hill at dusk form part of a timeless ballet.
But beneath that surface of tradition lies a fiercely modern contest - and this year, all eyes will once again be on Carlos Alcaraz. The young Spaniard, already a two-time champion, returns to London with the weight of expectation and the poise of a man writing his own history. Wimbledon 2025 promises not only classic style but high drama, served with precision. His 2024 win was more than clinical - it was personal. After his victory, he dedicated the moment to his late grandfather, a gesture that left fans and fellow players visibly moved.
On the women's side, Barbora Krejčíková enters with calm determination as the reigning champion, but the draw is a minefield. Aryna Sabalenka's fierce baseline power, Iga Świątek's clay-bred tenacity and Coco Gauff's star quality mean we could be in for some of the most dramatic women's matches the All England Club has seen in years.
2025 also marks a new broadcasting chapter. For the first time in 88 years, Wimbledon will not be exclusively shown by the BBC, with TNT Sports stepping in to co-host finals coverage. Change is in the air - but the charm of Wimbledon remains timeless.
The 2025 US Open Tennis Championships will take place from August 25 to September 7 at the iconic USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York. With its electrifying atmosphere, where the crowd's energy fills every corner of Arthur Ashe Stadium, the US Open is renowned for its exciting late-night matches and dramatic upsets. With players like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic likely to be in the Men's Singles mix; and Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Świątek, Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff in the Women's Singles mix, the competition for these respective crowns will be fierce. The event also celebrates the stars of the doubles and mixed doubles tournaments, with the sport's biggest names vying for glory on the hard courts.
Beyond the tennis, the US Open is a celebration of New York's vibrant culture, attracting fans from around the world. The tournament is also notable for its night sessions, with fans packing into Arthur Ashe Stadium under the lights, creating a unique atmosphere. As the last Grand Slam before the end-of-year championships, the US Open is often where storylines are written, whether it's a breakthrough victory for an emerging talent or a veteran adding another major title to their career. With the potential for dramatic and historic moments, the 2025 US Open is set to once again be an unforgettable showcase of tennis.
In the World of Football - The Good Game ⚽
While domestic football slows for the Global North summer, one international tournament promises fireworks. The FIFA Club World Cup, running from 15 June to 13 July, lands in the United States with an expanded format. For the first time, 32 of the world's top clubs from every continent will compete across multiple cities, from New York to Los Angeles. Champions League winners, Copa Libertadores kings and African giants like Al Ahly will all battle it out on U.S. soil.
This is not just a tournament - it's a spectacle. A global branding war that offers a unique opportunity for clubs outside the traditional European powerhouses to stake their claim on the world stage. For fans, it's a month-long celebration of global footballing culture - one that will redefine the future of the sport's international competitions.
4. FIFA Women's Under 17 World Cup 2025 - 17 October to 8 November 2025
From 17 October to 8 November 2025, Rabat and its surrounding venues will come alive as Morocco stages the first-ever FIFA U‑17 Women's World Cup to be held annually and expanded to 24 teams. This nine-day showcase marks a seismic shift in youth football: what was once a biennial event now becomes a yearly celebration of North Africa's rising talent.
With places for 24 nations from all six confederations, including five slots for CAF with Morocco as the host, this tournament doubles the opportunity for emerging talent to shine on the global stage. It also cements Morocco's pivotal role as the first African - and second Arab - nation to host this competition over an unprecedented five-year cycle
The tournament kicked off with an electrifying opening match between Morocco and Brazil at Rabat's Olympic Stadium, following the final draw on 4 June that set the stage for 24 spirited campaigns. The drama is captured in an official YouTube draw highlight - worth a watch for the palpable excitement and official flair.
Groups of four were drawn, with the top two in each and the four best third-placed squads moving into a knockout round - mirroring senior tournament formats. The champion will be crowned on 8 November. North Korea, the defending champions with a record three titles (including 2024), will face fierce pressure to retain their crown. Meanwhile, Europe will field its top five from the UEFA qualification in May - rising stars likely to include powerhouses such as Spain, France and Germany.
The recently revealed Group C features the USA, Ecuador, China PR, and Norway - facing off in Sale's Mohammed VI Football Academy between 18 - 24 October. The U.S. squad, fresh off a third-place finish in 2024, brings high expectations under coach Katie Schoepfer as they begin their journey
5. AFCON 2025
From 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, Morocco will welcome 24 elite national teams across six cities and nine stadiums, staging the 35th edition of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations. Having last hosted in 1988, Morocco's selection marks a significant milestone - especially as this Northern hemisphere winter tournament signals a strategic shift to December to sidestep clashes with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup.
The field expands to 24 teams, divided into six groups, with the top two from each pool plus the four best third-placed sides advancing to the Round of 16. The draw, held in Rabat on 27 January 2025, set Morocco in Group A with Mali, Zambia and Comoros - opening the tournament with a high-stakes clash.
Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex hosts both the ceremonious kick-off and final on 18 January, while other matches unfold at venues in Agadir, Casablanca, Fez, Marrakesh, Moulay Hassan, Al Barid and Tangier. Morocco's adept tournament hosting - following legends of CHAN 2018 and the Women's AFCON in 2022 - underscores their readiness to welcome Africa's best.
Ivory Coast, the defending champions, return for their title defence in Group F alongside Cameroon, Gabon and Mozambique, while hosts Morocco launch their campaign against Comoros in Rabat's majestic stadium. With powerhouses like Egypt, Senegal, Nigeria, Algeria, Zambia and DR Congo in contention, the tournament promises a thrilling blend of emerging stars and traditional giants.
🚴♂️ In the World of Cycling
The Tour de France is far more than just a cycling race; it's an iconic symbol of human endurance, strategy and perseverance. Every year, from 1 - 23 July, the world's best cyclists embark on a journey through France's diverse and picturesque landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps and Pyrenees to the rolling hills of the Champagne region, each stage offers its own unique challenges, including cobbled roads, mountain climbs and fast-paced sprints. In 2025, the Tour continues to build on its rich legacy, with fierce rivalries taking centre stage.
Photo by Florian Schmetz on Unsplash
Tour de France peloton in rainy weather.
In recent years, the battle for the yellow jersey has been defined by a thrilling rivalry between Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard. Both riders have elevated the level of competition, with Pogačar winning in 2020 and 2021, before Vingegaard answered with back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2023. The 2025 race promises another head-to-head duel between these two titans, as they continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in cycling. Last year, however, it was Slovenia's Tadej Pogačar who reclaimed his crown, winning the 2024 Tour de France and reaffirming his place at the top of the sport. Egan Bernal, Richard Carapaz and emerging stars like David Gaudu are also expected to add their names to the mix, making this year's edition one to watch.
But the Tour de France is not just about the contenders for the overall title. The race offers spectacular moments throughout its 21 stages. Whether it's the battle for the Polka Dot Jersey (for best climber), the Green Jersey (for the points classification) or the White Jersey (for the best young rider), every rider has a role to play in the race's epic drama. The Tour is also known for its intense team tactics, where riders like Wout van Aert and Mark Cavendish use their speed and skill to win stages and teammates sacrifice their chances to help their leaders secure overall victory.
Expect the unexpected, as every year delivers new legends, new challenges and, of course, new stories.
⛳ In the World of Golf
7. The Open Championship - Royal Portrush - 13 to 20 July
From 13 to 20 July, the world of golf turns its gaze to Royal Portrush, as The Open Championship makes its long-awaited return to Northern Ireland's dramatic north coast. But this is more than a scheduling decision - it's a pilgrimage. Set against the brooding beauty of sea-swept cliffs and rolling dunes, Portrush is both poetic and punishing. For golf purists, the memory of 2019 lingers vividly, when Shane Lowry, soaked by both rain and emotion, hoisted the Claret Jug in front of a roaring home crowd. Now, in 2025, the stage is set once more - for triumph, heartbreak and a masterclass in links golf at its most evocative.
This year, Lowry returns - not as a hopeful, but as a hero - and with him come a host of challengers. Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland's prodigal son, is in search of the one thing that continues to elude him: a calendar-year Grand Slam. Royal Portrush is in his blood. Every bunker, every bend, is filled with memories of childhood rounds and teenage dreams.
Then there's Xander Schauffele, the reigning champion, whose quiet focus and elegant swing have earned him admiration from galleries around the world. While American crowds adore him, there's something particularly noble about defending a title in the birthplace of golf.
For those attending, it's a week of exceptional sport wrapped in fine Irish hospitality - whiskey tastings at Bushmills, cliffside walks at Dunluce and evenings spent discussing the day's drama at the 19th hole. This is not just golf. It's a story unfolding on sacred ground.
🏉In the World of Rugby
From 16 August to 2 October, the Rugby Championship travels across the globe, from Argentina to Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the UK. No tournament captures southern hemisphere passion quite like this. It's a thrilling collision of styles, cultures and philosophies - from the disciplined fury of the Springboks to the elegant unpredictability of the All Blacks.
In 2025, however, the drama reaches an entirely new pitch. With the fierce competition, tactical brilliance and unmatched intensity, this is the ultimate celebration of rugby's finest and a must-watch for fans on every continent.
South Africa, defending champions and Four times World Cup victors, will be hunting not just wins, but legacy. Their travel schedule is brutal - Buenos Aires to Sydney to Cape Town - but the unity of their squad is palpable. At the heart of it all is fly-half Manie Libbok, whose vision on the field has been called "a chess master in a storm."
Adding a European twist to this year's edition is the final-round match between Argentina and South Africa at Twickenham. A neutral venue? Perhaps. But the Springboks always draw a crowd in London and with tens of thousands of South Africans living in the UK, expect a sea of green and gold to flood the stands.
Rugby fans know: this tournament isn't about smooth victories. It's about bruising brilliance, epic comebacks and stories forged under floodlights. If you only watch one rugby match this year, make it the Twickenham finale.
For those gearing up for the Rugby World Cup and looking to experience top-tier rugby in the lead-up, the British & Irish Lions Tour of Australia 2025 is an event you won't want to miss. Running from 28 June to 2 August, this high-stakes tour provides a perfect warm-up for the World Cup, offering fans a preview of the fierce competition between two rugby powerhouses: the Lions and the Wallabies. With the Lions looking to continue their legacy of success and Australia eager to defend their home turf, this tour promises to be a thrilling spectacle that showcases the very best in rugby talent, teamwork and strategy.
Not only will it feature intense Test matches, but the tour's nine-match format also provides ample opportunity to watch emerging players and established stars face off across Australia's iconic rugby venues.If you're a fan of the Rugby World Cup, this tour is an essential watch for keeping tabs on key players like Maro Itoje and Tadhg Furlong for the Lions, as well as the formidable Fraser McReight, Tom Wright and Joseph-Aukuso Sua'ali'i for the Wallabies. It's the ideal event to whet any dyed-in-the-wool rugby enthusiasts appetite.
🥇In the World of Athletics
The 2025 World Athletics Championships are set to take place from 13 to 21 September at the iconic Japan National Stadium in Tokyo. This marks the third time Japan has hosted the event and the first since the 1991 Championships. With over 2,000 athletes from approximately 200 countries competing across 49 events, Tokyo 2025 promises to be a spectacle of speed, strength and skill.
The Championships will feature a comprehensive schedule, including sprints, middle and long-distance races, hurdles, relays, jumps, throws and combined events. Notably, the men's and women's 100m finals are expected to be among the highlights, with reigning champions and world record holders aiming to defend their titles. The full event timetable is available on the official World Athletics website.
Tokyo's National Stadium, rebuilt for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, will serve as the main venue, providing a state-of-the-art setting for the Championships. The stadium's modern facilities and seating capacity will ensure an exceptional experience for both athletes and spectators.
As the 20th edition of the World Athletics Championships, Tokyo 2025 is poised to deliver memorable moments and showcase the pinnacle of athletic achievement. Fans worldwide can look forward to witnessing history in the making at this prestigious event.
🏏 Cricket
The 13th edition of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup returns to India after 12 years, bringing the excitement of 50-over cricket to passionate fans across the subcontinent. The tournament will feature eight teams: India, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The opening match is scheduled for September 30 in Bengaluru, with the final match on November 2, 2025. Australia enters the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2022 by defeating England.
The group stage will be followed by knockout matches, with the first semi-final on October 29 in either Guwahati or Colombo and the second semi-final on October 30 in Bengaluru. All matches involving Pakistan will be played in Colombo, including their group stage fixtures and any potential knockout matches .
This World Cup presents a unique opportunity for fans to witness the evolution of women's cricket, with emerging talents and seasoned players competing on the world stage. The tournament's hybrid model, with matches in both India and Sri Lanka, aims to bring the excitement of the World Cup to a broader audience, showcasing the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's cricket globally.
🏎️In the World of Motor Racing
Image Source: @jacmar
The Formula 1 Pirelli Gran Premio d'Italia 2025 roars into action from 5-7 September, taking its place as Round 16 of the 24-race F1 calendar at the historic Autodromo Nazionale Monza. This marks the 96th edition of Italy's premier motorsport spectacle, racing on the same legendary tarmac laid down in 1922. Known as the "Temple of Speed," Monza is revered for its high-speed straights and passionate fans, the Tifosi, who create an electric atmosphere with their fervent support for Ferrari. The 5.793 km circuit challenges drivers with its blend of rapid corners and braking zones, offering a unique test of skill and bravery.
In 2025, the Italian Grand Prix will be a spectacle of speed and strategy. Charles Leclerc, the 2024 winner, returns as Ferrari's home hero, aiming to repeat his triumph in front of the Tifosi. Max Verstappen, the 2023 victor, remains a formidable contender, bringing his relentless drive and consistency to the race. The McLaren duo, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, are also in strong form, with both of them securing multiple podiums this season. Piastri though has been the more consistent and currently occupies top spot in the drivers' standings. Adding to the intrigue Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the only Italian driver on the grid, will have the home advantage, potentially making a significant impact in front of his compatriots.
The race weekend kicks off on Friday, 5 September, with Practice 1 at 11:30 - 12:30hrs, followed by Practice 2 from 15:00 - 16:00hrs. Practice 3 is scheduled for Saturday, 6 September, from 10:30 - 11:30hrs, leading into Qualifying from 14:00 - 15:00hrs. The main event, the Grand Prix, will take place on Sunday, 7 September, at 13:00hrs, spanning 53 laps over a distance of 306.72 km. Fans can expect a thrilling race, with strategic tire choices and potential weather changes adding to the excitement.
Monza's rich history is woven into the fabric of Formula 1. Since its inception in 1950, the circuit has been a staple on the calendar, with only one exception in 1980 when the race was held at Imola. The track's legacy includes unforgettable moments, such as Charles Leclerc's emotional victory in 2019 and Daniel Ricciardo's first win in 2021. In 2025, Monza continues to honor its tradition, offering fans a chance to witness history in the making.
The 2025 Formula 1 season continues with a series of high-speed battles across iconic circuits worldwide. From the historic streets of Montreal to the night race spectacle in Abu Dhabi, fans can look forward to thrilling races that could shape the championship standings.
Date | Grand Prix | Circuit | Location
27 - 29 June | Austrian Grand Prix | Red Bull Ring | Spielberg, Austria
4 - 6 July | British Grand Prix | Silverstone Circuit | Silverstone, UK
25 - 27 July | Belgian Grand Prix | Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps | Stavelot, Belgium
1 - 3 August | Hungarian Grand Prix | Hungaroring | Mogyoród, Hungary
29 - 31 August | Dutch Grand Prix | Circuit Zandvoort | Zandvoort, Netherlands
5 - 7 September | Italian Grand Prix | Monza Circuit | Monza, Italy
19 - 21 September | Azerbaijan Grand Prix | Baku City Circuit | Baku, Azerbaijan
3 - 5 October | Singapore Grand Prix | Marina Bay Street Circuit | Singapore
17 - 19 October | United States Grand Prix | Circuit of the Americas | Austin, Texas, USA
24 - 26 October | Mexican Grand Prix | Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez | Mexico City, Mexico
7 - 9 November | Brazilian Grand Prix | Interlagos Circuit | São Paulo, Brazil
22 November | Las Vegas Grand Prix | Las Vegas Strip Circuit | Paradise, Nevada, USA
28 - 30 November | Qatar Grand Prix | Lusail International Circuit | Lusail, Qatar
5 - 7 December | Abu Dhabi Grand Prix | Yas Marina Circuit | Abu Dhabi, UAE
🏍 In the World of MotoGP
Image Source: Eugene Lim
From the thrilling corners of Mugello and the roar of the crowd in Assen, the MotoGP season only intensifies as the world's top riders head to two of the most eagerly anticipated races: the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island and the Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi.
Phillip Island - The Ocean's Edge Showdown
As the MotoGP calendar heads toward its final stages from 19 - 21 October, Phillip Island stands as a beacon of speed and unpredictability. Located on the stunning southern coastline of Australia, this circuit is a perfect marriage of natural beauty and technical brilliance. The layout, with its fast-flowing corners and breathtaking seaside backdrop, challenges even the most seasoned riders. As riders push to their limits, the unpredictable Australian weather only adds to the drama. The wind, the rain and the occasional burst of sunshine have all been part of the race's narrative for years, making it a track where anything can happen.
In 2025, this race will carry even more significance as the title fight heats up. The dominant Marc Márquez will likely still be in the mix, chasing yet another victory, but he'll face fierce competition from Johann Zarco, whose breakthrough victory in France has elevated him to the ranks of championship contenders. The Australian GP is not just about the race; it's a carnival. The local fans, known for their enthusiasm, create an electric atmosphere that only amplifies the intensity on track. If you want a race where raw speed, unpredictable weather and an unmistakable festival vibe collide, Phillip Island will deliver.
Motegi - The Precision of Japan
A few weeks earlier, from 28 - 30 September, the Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi presents another layer of intensity, this time infused with the precision and passion of Japanese motorsport. Located in the heart of Japan's industrial region, Motegi is known for its tight, technical corners and a track that demands every ounce of skill from riders. But it's not just the track that captivates; it's the cultural significance of the race itself. Japan's deep-rooted love for motorsport and their unwavering dedication to perfection bleed into every aspect of this event.
For Marc Márquez, Motegi holds personal significance. After a challenging few seasons, he'll look to add another victory in Japan to his already impressive record. Meanwhile, the likes of Álex Márquez, Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia (respectively 2nd and 3rd in the points standings at the time of writing this article) and the rest of the field, will continue to push the boundaries of speed and skill in one of the most challenging circuits of the season. The anticipation is palpable, not just for the riders, but for the thousands of fans who gather at Motegi each year. The Japanese GP is more than a race; it's a fusion of sport, tradition and the relentless pursuit of excellence - a true reflection of Japanese motorsport culture.
As the season draws to a close, Phillip Island and Motegi will provide some of the most compelling and emotional moments of the year. These races will be more than just track battles - they'll be an embodiment of the spirit and soul of MotoGP. Whether you're watching from the grandstands or following from home, the drama and intensity will leave you on the edge of your seat, marking the final chapters of what is shaping up to be an unforgettable season in the world of MotoGP.
So, if you're planning your final stops for the season, make sure Australia and Japan are on your radar. The world's finest riders will put it all on the line as they chase glory - and you'll be there to witness history in the making.
Below is a comprehensive list of the remaining races on the 2025 MotoGP calendar, showcasing the venues and dates where the action will unfold. Whether you're planning to attend in person or follow along from home, these races promise to deliver unforgettable moments in motorsport.
Date | Grand Prix | Circuit | Location
27 - 29 June | Motul Grand Prix | TT Circuit Assen | Assen, Netherlands
11 - 13 July | Liqui-Moly Grand Prix | Sachsenring | Hohenstein-Ernstthal, Germany
18 - 20 July | Grand Prix Czechia | Automotodrom Brno | Brno, Czech Republic
15 - 17 August | Grand Prix of Austria | Red Bull Ring | Spielberg, Austria
22 - 24 August | Grand Prix of Hungary | Balaton Park Circuit | Balatonfőkajár, Hungary
5 - 7 September | Monster Energy Grand Prix of Catalania | Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya | Montmelo, Spain
12 - 14 September | Red bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera | Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli | Misano Adriatico, San Marino
26 - 28 September | Motul Grand Prix of Japan | Mobility Resort Motegi | Motegi, Japan
3 - 5 October | Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia | Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit | Mandalika, Indonesia
17 - 19 October | Australian MOtor Cycle Grand Prix | Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit | Phillip Island, Australia
24 - 26 October | Pertonas Grand Prix of Malaysia | Sepang International Circuit | Sepang, Malaysia
7 - 9 November | Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Portugal | Algarve International Circuit | Portimão, Portugal
14 - 16 November | Motul Grand Prix of the Valencian Community | Circuit Ricardo Tormo | Valencia, Spain
Other International Events to look out for:
These events, while perhaps not as widely recognised as others, offer unique insights and celebrate the diverse spectrum of athletic talent across various disciplines.
14. World Aquatics Championships (11 July - 3 August, Singapore): A comprehensive aquatic sports festival featuring six disciplines: swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming, open water swimming and high diving. Over 2,500 athletes from 210 national federations are expected to compete.
15. World Para Swimming Championships (21 - 27 September, Singapore): This event highlights the achievements of para swimmers, promoting inclusivity and excellence in aquatic sports.
🎙 The Final Countdown
In a world that increasingly chases virtual experiences and synthetic emotion, live sport remains strikingly real. There is no second chance. Just grit, genius and greatness as it happens.
These events offer more than mere competition - they're cultural moments, shared rituals and opportunities to witness excellence up close. Whether you're watching from a private suite at Twickenham, a corporate hospitality box at Wimbledon or your own curated home theatre, each match or moment is a reminder: greatness is worth making time for.
So don't just pencil these dates in - commit to them. Book the flight. Buy the ticket. Invite the friends. The second half of 2025 is not to be missed.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and reflects the latest details available at the time of publication. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, schedules, venues and participant details are subject to change. Readers are advised to check official tournament and event websites for the most up-to-date information. The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any official sporting organisations.
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25 Jun 2025
Author Twaambo Chirwa