The UK’s summer of sport is in full swing, and with a packed calendar of events ahead, it’s the best possible time of year for enthusiasts of everything from football and tennis to Formula One, golfing and rowing to get their long-awaited fix.
With a thrilling mix of traditional favourites and international spectacles set to unfold over the coming weeks and the UEFA Euros already having kicked off earlier this month, there are some exciting dates to put in your diary. Here, we’ve rounded up the biggest sporting highlights of the summer you won’t want to miss.
The UEFA Euros 2024: Friday, 14th June – Sunday, 14th July
The UEFA European Championship, or the Euros, is already well underway, with both England and Scotland already having played their opening two matches. Happening every four years, the 2024 event has been a long time coming after England made the final during the last tournament, and all eyes are on Gareth Southgate’s squad to see whether this could be the year they finally bring football home.
With upwards of £7 billion estimated to have been bet on the last tournament in 2021, this year’s event is expected to bring in even higher amounts of gambling revenue as sports fans scramble to take advantage of William Hill’s betting promotions. Although the action is unfolding across Germany, the UK’s involvement has guaranteed plenty of excitement here on home soil, and as England and Scotland vie for glory, each team will be backed by an army of passionate supporters. Pubs and fan zones have already come alive with the roar of supporters, and as the action ramps up further and excitement reaches fever pitch, homes across the country will continue to become gathering points for friends and family to watch the matches.
Wimbledon: Monday, 1st – Sunday, 14th July
When it comes to the UK’s proudest sporting events, Wimbledon is at the top of the list. This prestigious event is attended by celebrities and even royalty, and remains the pinnacle of the British summer calendar. As the oldest tennis tournament in the world, it draws the best players to the hallowed grass courts of the All England Club, and this year promises another thrilling fortnight of world-class tennis, with fans eagerly anticipating the return of past champions and the rise of new contenders.
Men’s favourites for 2024 include Carlos Alcaraz, from Spain, and Italian Jannik Sinner, while Poland’s Iga Swiatek is hotly tipped for the women’s tournament. But despite the unequivocal talent that will be on display, Wimbledon is about more than just its fast-paced matches, and from jugs of Pimms to strawberries and cream, it’s a summer celebration all round.
The British Grand Prix: Sunday, 7th July
For motorsport fans, it doesn’t get much better than the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, which is an annual highlight and also one of the most prestigious races on the Formula One calendar. Attracting the sport’s biggest names – from British seven times World Champion Lewis Hamilton to current title holder and front-runner Max Verstappen of Belgium, the 2024 iteration promises to deliver the high-speed thrills and technical excellence that have become Silverstone is best known for.
The challenging circuit, known for its fast straights and complex corners, is a favourite amongst drivers and fans alike, and as ever, an electric atmosphere is guaranteed. The British Grand Prix is more than a race; it’s a festival of speed and engineering prowess that epitomises the excitement of Formula One, and although it’s a few weeks away, fans are already getting revved up.
The Open Championship: Thursday, 18th – Sunday, 21st July
Taking place at the prestigious Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland, the Open Championship is back with a bang for 2024, and golfing enthusiasts across the nation will be on the edge of their seats waiting for the on-course action to begin. The oldest of the sport’s four major tournaments, the 2024 Open promises – as ever – to be a challenging test of skill and nerve. As players navigate a demanding links course and compete for the coveted Claret Jug.
The Open’s rich history and tradition has made it a long-term favourite than many sports fans look forward to each year, and set against dramatic coastal scenery, it’s a unique event that promises to liven up the summer sporting calendar even further. Fans can expect impressive tactical play, thrilling competition, and perhaps a few surprises along the way as The Open 2024 adds another chapter to the tournament’s storied legacy.
Henley Royal Regatta: Tuesday, 2nd – Sunday, 7th July
When it comes to opulent sporting events, the Henley Royal Regatta, held on the River Thames, is a British favourite and a highlight of the annual rowing calendar. Combining elite competition with a quintessentially British social scene, it’s another summer celebration that fans flock from all corners of the nation and much further afield to attend, with rowers from across the globe competing in a series of knockout races designed to put their strength, endurance, and technique to the ultimate test.
Henley’s charm makes it the ultimate British day out, whether or not you’re clued up on your rowing, and as spectators enjoy picnics along the riverbank while the rowers glide on past, there’s no better way to spend a summer’s afternoon.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
