In 2004, the Government outlined in a paper that they would like to get serious about bidding for international sporting events in this country. Five years on and this is one promise they’ve more than delivered on. With the recent announcements across both codes of rugby, the score is now 5-0 to Britain.

Not counting this year’s ICC World Twenty20, over the next six years we’re within driving distance of the following:

2010 – Ryder Cup; 2012 – The Olympics; 2013 – Rugby League World Cup; 2014 – Commonwealth Games; 2015 – Rugby Union World Cup

And if that wasn’t enough, we’re also bidding for the second biggest sporting event on the planet – the FIFA Football World Cup in 2018.

As a sporting destination, Britain ticks a lot of the right boxes – stadiums, infrastructure, a history of hosting huge events from Wimbledon to The Open, timezone (critical for the TV money) and a vibrant sponsorship sector. The economic and profile boost these events can give a country, if done right, is well documented so at a time when congratulatory headlines are scarce, Team Government has earned a place at the top of the podium.

By Dominic Curran on August 4th, 2009

Tags: Default, Glasgow 2014, London 2012, Olympics, Public relations, Rugby, Rugby League Marketing, Sponsorship, Sport

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