The UK Government has announced a landmark Sporting Events Bill as part of the King’s Speech, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s ability to host major international sporting events.
At its heart, the Bill aims to create a simpler, more consistent approach – helping organisers deliver great events while making travel easier for everyone attending.
Making Major Events Simpler to Deliver
The Bill introduces a shared legal framework that can be used for major events in the UK.
By streamlining the legal and operational environment, the UK will be better positioned to deliver events such as UEFA EURO 2028 and strengthen bids for future tournaments, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035.
A Strong Focus on How People Travel
A key part of the Bill is improving how people get to and from events.
The legislation introduces:
- A requirement for a designated body to prepare, consult on, and publish a statutory transport plan
- Enhanced road regulation powers to support traffic management
- Measures to reduce reliance on informal or voluntary transport coordination arrangements
In simple terms, it’s about making sure journeys are well planned, easy to understand, and work for everyone.
Supporting Economic Growth and Communities
Major sporting events play a vital role in the UK economy, contributing over £53.6 billion annually in Gross Value Added.
Beyond economic impact, they also deliver wider benefits, including:
- Increased tourism and hospitality activity
- Job creation and local investment
- Community engagement and national pride
- Long-term health and wellbeing improvements
The Bill ensures these benefits can be maximised through more effective planning and delivery.
Why This Matters Beyond Event Day
While these changes will improve major events, they also support something bigger.
Nick Butler, Modeshift Chief Executive Officer said:
‘At Modeshift we want to see more people given the opportunity to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport for everyday journeys.
Major sporting events can play a powerful role in this. They bring people together and can show how good travel planning makes a real difference – not just on the day, but long after the event ends.’
Our Role in Supporting Better Travel
Through our network and STARS Leisure scheme, we support organisations to plan and promote better travel choices.
This includes:
- Helping venues and organisers plan ahead
- Encouraging sustainable travel options
- Supporting behaviour change beyond the event itself
Jon Foley, Modeshift Events and Venues Executive said:
‘When different organisations work together on transport planning, it improves the whole experience. We’re ready to support partners to make this happen.’
The Sporting Events Bill represents a significant step towards a more coordinated, efficient, and future-ready approach to hosting major sporting events in the UK.
As the country prepares for EURO 2028 and beyond, collaboration across transport, event management, and local stakeholders will be essential and we are ready to play our part.
Links:
Sporting Events Bill (Pdf 84Kb)
The key measures in the King’s Speech – BBC News
