🏟️ Miami Secures Its Place as a Global Sports Capital

Miami and Miami Beach have reached an exciting new milestone: the destination has officially entered the Top 10 Global Sports Cities in the 2025 Burson Sports City Ranking, climbing from 16th place in 2023 to 8th place in 2025.

This recognition cements Miami’s reputation not only as a hub for culture, beaches, and nightlife, but also as a world-class sports destination attracting fans, athletes, and events from across the globe.

🌍 Why Miami? A Growing Sports Powerhouse

Miami’s rise in the global rankings is no accident. The city has consistently invested in hosting, promoting, and delivering some of the world’s most iconic sporting events.

Current highlights include:

• Orange Bowl and Miami Open 🎾

• Miami Marathon 🏃‍♂️

• Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix 🏎️

• New additions: PGA Tour Signature Event, E1 Power Boat Series, Formula E, Unrivaled Women’s Basketball, HYROX Fitness Festival

This mix of traditional sports and innovative, emerging competitions showcases Miami’s ability to adapt, diversify, and lead in the sports industry.

🏆 Major Upcoming Events

Miami’s sports calendar is only getting stronger. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

• College Football Playoff & National Championship (Jan 2026)

• NHL Winter Classic (Jan 2, 2026 – Florida Panthers vs. New York Rangers at loanDepot Park)

• World Baseball Classic 2026 (March 6–17, 2026 – groups, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final in Miami)

• FIFA World Cup 2026 (7 matches including group stage, Round of 16, and third-place match)

• NASCAR Cup Series Championship (November 2026)

Plus the Miami HEAT, Dolphins, Marlins, and Inter Miami CF, who continue to anchor the city’s identity as a year-round sports capital.

💡 The Strategy Behind the Success

According to David Whitaker, CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB):

“We have made a deliberate and strategic investment in attracting, promoting, and hosting some of the most iconic and global events in the world. This ranking validates that effort and reflects the collective strength of our sports and event partners.”

The GMCVB’s strategy includes:

• Marketing campaigns aimed at sports fans and international visitors

• Partnerships with global brands and organizations

• Blending sports with Miami’s culture, gastronomy, and beaches to create unforgettable visitor experiences

✨ Miami: More Than a Destination

With a history that includes 11 Super Bowls, decades of the Orange Bowl, and hosting every round of the World Baseball Classic, Miami has long been a trusted sports host.

But with innovations like Formula E, the HYROX Fitness Festival, and esports on the horizon, Miami proves it’s not just about tradition — it’s about shaping the future of global sports tourism.

📈 Miami’s Place Among Giants

Joining cities like Paris, London, Los Angeles, New York, and Madrid, Miami is now officially recognized as one of the Top 10 Global Sports Cities.

As the countdown begins to the FIFA World Cup 2026, Miami is ready to welcome the world and solidify its legacy as a dynamic, diverse, and innovative global sports capital.