There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic played havoc with the sporting calendar. We saw the Olympics called off for the very first time since the second world war, pimms with strawberries and cream whilst enjoying a spot of tennis was but a distant memory, as we saw Wimbledon get called off too. 12 months on, we tentatively anticipate the sporting calendar of 2021 with sports coming out of lockdown as a bumper summer of sport lies ahead. Here is the sporting line-up of 2021 to enjoy now and look forward too.
The Euro, 11 June to 11 July
Consisting on 51 games in 12 cities across Europe, Wembley, London is hosting seven football games in all, five of which including the semi finals and final. Watching live seems like unlikely at present but grab your sportswear and football shirts and be sure to tune in at home. If you’re not a big football fan, join in the fun by running a sweep stake with your friends, families and colleagues. Tune in to the final on 11th July. Take a look at the Uefa tournament guide.
Wimbledon, 28 June to 11 July
The Wimbledon Championships made a welcome return to our screens on 28th June, with full crowds for the singles 2021 final on Centre Court, looking likely. The start of the tournament is set to take place with 50% capacity, albeit is subject to change. The men’s final is being played on 11th July, the same day as the as The Euros final at Wembley. It's time to start practising your serve in the garden.
Tour de France, 26 June to 18 July
Although the race was never officially cancelled, the restricted Covid version didn’t quite hit the spot. Confidence returns in 2021, with plans afoot for the traditional warm-up race from Paris to Nice, attracting some of the world’s best riders return yet again. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, then this is one for you.
British Grand Prix, 17-18 July
Formula 1 grand prix is set to burn some rubber on the Silverstone track mid-July, so your need for speed will be satisfied this year. It’s not just a race, it’s a festival of great entertainment, top music acts, countless food options and unforgettable atmosphere. With Anne-Marie and Rudimental in the musical line-up, this is one not to miss.
Olympics / Paralympics, 23 July to 5 September
With the world-famous games being pushed back 12 months, and many voting against the games taking place at all, the Olympics will officially get underway in Tokyo, Japan with the opening ceremony on 23rd July kicking off at 8pm, local time meaning midday for British viewers. Get set to support and cheer on the athletes as you watch the up close and personal stories of strength from gymnastics to rowing.
The Golf Open, 15-18 July
The major golf championship returns to the UK after two years absence, with organisers planning to have a significant number of fans in attendance at Royal St. Georges in Kent, albeit a reduced capacity. A tournament of technique and skill.
London Marathon, 3 October
Grab your trainers, and start gearing up as it’s time to get training for the London Marathon. Last years marathon was closed to the public due to the Coronavirus outbreak but summer 2021 is looking more hopeful with an expected 50,000 participants expected to race, pending vaccinations. Organisers are also inviting another 50,000 people to compete virtually using a track app. The iconic route runs from Blackheath in south east London to the finish line at The Mall. Runners will make their way through Greenwich before passing over the Thames, through central London, passing Canary Wharf and many other famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace.
All sporting fixtures are of course subject to change, but it seems sport prepares for a joyous return and hopeful fans could start returning to their favourite stadiums soon. Keep an eye on the news for the latest sporting updates and fixture changes.
For more summer active thrills, take a look at our top tips on how to get into shape for summer.