Belfast has been officially awarded the title of a European City of Sport 2026, recognising the city’s commitment to sport, physical activity and community wellbeing.
Belfast has been officially awarded the title of a European City of Sport 2026, recognising the city’s commitment to sport, physical activity and community wellbeing. The award places Belfast among 20 European cities recognised for 2026 and marks the first time the city has received this prestigious honour. Until now, Lisburn in 2013 had been the only Northern Ireland city to achieve the title.
The application, submitted in October 2025, highlighted the huge progress made in Belfast over the past decade, from major investment in facilities to the steady growth of participation across all ages and abilities. Earlier this November, a judging panel from ACES visited Belfast for two days, meeting with Belfast City Council, GLL and community sports organisations across the city. Their assessment focused on how long-term investment has begun to transform health and wellbeing outcomes for residents.
The bid reflected ACES Europe’s core values of enjoying exercise, striving to achieve, building community, learning through play and improving health. It also demonstrated Belfast’s continued support for elite athletes and the vital contribution made by the people who keep sport thriving here, from leisure centre teams to local clubs, coaches and volunteers. A strong focus was placed on ensuring that everyone feels welcome, included and able to enjoy the benefits of being active, while showcasing how sport is helping deliver better health outcomes for communities across the city.
Substantial evidence supported the bid, including £105 million invested in six state-of-the-art leisure centres since 2015, alongside eight others now serving as community hubs offering wider access to physical activity. Sports participation in Belfast has risen significantly, with 50% of adults reporting taking part in sport weekly, up from 43% the previous year. Investment in programmes such as the free 12-week Healthwise scheme, collaborations with governing bodies, the expanding Belfast Bikes network with the addition of e-bikes, and the development of world-class greenways at Connswater and Forth Meadow, all played a key role. Further projects, including upgrades planned for Waterworks, Alexandra Park and Girdwood, a new pitches strategy, and the innovative Under the Bridges recreational space beneath the M3, demonstrated the city’s commitment to improving access to sport for all.
Looking ahead, residents will have the opportunity to get involved throughout the European City of Sport year. The 2026 programme will include citywide try-it activities, volunteer and coach development opportunities and a series of special events, with full details to be announced in January.
Belfast City Marathon is proud to be part of this ongoing story. Each year, our events bring people together, whether they’re running, walking, cheering or volunteering, and help inspire healthier, more active lifestyles. We look forward to celebrating this achievement and contributing to an exciting programme of sport and community engagement throughout 2026, including the Phoenix Energy Belfast City Marathon, Half Marathon, Women’s 10K and 5K Fun Run.
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