There’s no denying sport has the power to unite a nation. Whatever game sets your pulse racing, the season is well stocked for sport. And in the spirit of all beautiful games – not just football – we’ve stuck together a calendar to help you enjoy a perfect Summer of Sport.
Le Mans
Those with a need for speed require no introduction to Le Mans. The 24-hour rally is the world’s oldest active sports car race in endurance racing, and is considered one of the most prestigious automobile events in history. The ultimate feat of speed and stamina for both car and driver sees motorists get behind the wheel around the clock, staving off fatigue and mechanical failure to test themselves against the best of the best. Of the 60 teams that entered last year’s race, just 41 made the chequered flag. Expect tears, trashed tyres and blowouts as drivers put the pedal to the metal.
June 11-12
Royal Ascot
An event bursting with pomp and pageantry – and that’s just the crowd. This year’s Royal Ascot returns with a fleet of world-class horses and jockeys. Head to the regal course for a day full of racing, fine dining and socialising. Then, after you’ve placed your bets, make sure to keep an eye out for the arrival of the Royal Procession at 2pm, as well as a singalong with the Ascot’s Bandstand.
June 14-18
Wimbledon
The undisputed king of summer sport, Wimbledon remains the unparalleled tennis meet of the world. Step into the shimmering, strawberries and cream-laden pantheon of elite players – Federer, Williams, Nadal to name a few – and marvel at the athleticism and skill of the game’s greats.
June 27 – July 10
Photo by Bearne / XPB Images
British Grand Prix
There is no bigger day on the calendar for petrolheads than the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Each year the iconic track welcomes thousands of spectators over three days, all desperate to see some of the world’s best drivers rattling around the 3.6-mile circuit. Although home favourite Lewis Hamilton is currently top of this season’s pile, plenty could change ahead of the British race.
July 1-3
UEFA Women’s EURO
The thirteenth edition of the women’s tournament, the England Women’s football team is hoping to go one step further than their male counterparts and reach a final this summer. The popularity of the women’s game has never been higher, and despite not being favourites to win, the Lionesses are more than capable of replicating the type of performances that filled the nation with pride last summer.
July 6-31
British Open
Celebrating its 150th year, The British Open in Scotland is set to be a historic one, with record numbers of crowds descending on the Old Course, St Andrews. Catch some of the world’s greatest tee off in Fife as they compete for the renowned Claret Jug.
July 10-17
Cowes Week
One of the oldest regattas in the world, Cowes Week first took place in 1826. Head to the west bank on the Isle of Wight to catch a glimpse of around 800 boats taking part in the eight-day event. You’ll see Olympic athletes and world-class sailors take to the water and race on the Solent, and if you fancy it, jump aboard a spectator float to see the action up close. Between races, explore the villages and sandy beaches of the island before heading to Egypt Point to watch the fleet as they finish.
July 31 – August 6
Rugby World Cup Sevens
Get your drinks on ice as the summer’s hottest rugby tournament is set to be a scorcher. This year, South Africa will be hosting the game, which is in fact the first time it’s been hosted in Africa. The eighth edition of rugby sevens will see 24 men’s and 16 women’s sevens teams battle it out on the field in Cape Town Stadium to compete for the championship title. This September competition will end the summer season with a bang – or perhaps Try.
September 9-11
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