Major Sporting and Cultural Event Highlights

London is set to host some of the biggest and most exciting major events over the next few years. Here are some of the highlights.

NFL - American Football League

In 2007 London hosted the first NFL league game played outside of the Americas. The League returns in 2008 with a match between the New Orleans Saints and the San Diego Chargers at Wembley on 26 October.

NBA – Basketball Europe Live Series

The NBA Europe Live series returns to The O2 on Sunday 12 October 2008 as the New Jersey Nets challenge Miami Heat. This event continues to grow globally, with London at the centre of the expansion.

Tour of Britain 2008

London will host the start of the 8 day Tour of Britain cycle race on 7 September 2008 with the route from Tower Hill taking in many of London’s iconic venues.

Tour of Britain website

Red Bull Air Race 2008

The Red Bull Air Race returns to London on 2-3 August 2008. The race features the world’s best pilots as they navigate a low-level aerial race track of air-filled pylons floated on the Thames. Speeds of 400 km per hour guarantee jaw-dropping action and spectacular backdrops.

World Artistic Gymnastic Championships 2009

The annual World Artistic Gymnastics Championships are coming to London for the first time in 2009. Mixing strength and agility with style and grace, the high-flying acrobats will compete in a range of artistic events.

ATP World Tour Final 2009

The 5th Grand Slam event of the men’s professional tennis circuit, the ATP World Cup is the season finale and will take place at The O2 in November 2009. Past winners of the event include John McEnroe, Boris Becker, Lleyton Hewitt and Rodger Federer.

ICC World Twenty20 Cricket 2009

Lord's and The Oval will be the two main venues for the premier date in the World Twenty20 Cricket calendar. The ECB will also host the inaugural Women’s World Twenty20 in 2009 with over 20 international teams taking part.