Greater Miami and Miami Beach have officially been ranked among the world’s top 10 global sports cities, according to Burson’s highly anticipated 2025 Ranking of Sport Cities. The destination climbed from No. 16 in 2023 to No. 8 this year, underscoring its role as a year-round hub for international competition and strengthening its reputation as a global sports capital.
Already home to marquee events such as the Orange Bowl, Miami Open, Miami Marathon and Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, the region’s sports calendar has expanded to include five new annual competitions: the PGA Tour Signature Event, E1 Power Boat Series, Formula E, Unrivaled Women’s Basketball, and the HYROX Fitness Festival. Following the successful hosting of the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year, these additions, along with upcoming international tournaments including FIFA World Cup 26™, are expected to deliver powerful economic impact for the community.
The Burson Ranking evaluates the top 100 sports cities worldwide through surveys and quantitative analysis, including input from sports leaders, media representatives and industry experts, as well as social and traditional media tracking.
“Over the past several years, our organization has made an intentional and strategic investment of marketing and communications assets and platforms to help lure, promote and host some of the most iconic and global sports events and brands in the world,” said David Whitaker, President & CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB).
“The significant growth over the past few years, and now top 10 global ranking, simply reaffirms the return on that investment, collective power and influence of our sports and event partners. And once again, vividly illustrates the relationship between the reputation and attraction of a destination’s brand with the major events hosted there.”
Major Events Ahead
Miami’s packed sports calendar in the next 12 months includes:
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College Football National Championship and Playoffs (January 2026)
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Jan. 1: Capital One Orange Bowl College Football Playoff Quarterfinal
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Jan. 19: College Football Playoff National Championship
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NHL Winter Classic (January 2026)
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Jan. 2: Florida Panthers vs. New York Rangers at loanDepot park
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World Baseball Classic (March 6–17, 2026)
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Pool D Play, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Championship Game
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FIFA World Cup 26™ Matches (June–July 2026 at Miami Stadium)
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Seven matches, including a Round of 32, Quarterfinal, and Bronze Final
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NASCAR Cup Series Championship (November 6–8, 2026)
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Nov. 8: NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race
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These events add to an already robust lineup that includes the Miami Open, Miami Marathon, Bacardi Cup Regatta, Capital One Orange Bowl, Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, and full seasons of the Miami HEAT, Dolphins, Marlins, and Inter Miami CF.
Proven Track Record
Miami has a long legacy of hosting world-class events. It has tied the record for hosting 11 Super Bowls, remains the only destination to stage all three rounds of the World Baseball Classic, and has been home to the Orange Bowl since 1935—the second-oldest bowl game in college football.
The city will also make history in 2026 by hosting Florida’s first-ever outdoor NHL game as part of the league’s Winter Classic. The match, staged at loanDepot park, reflects Miami’s ability to adapt venues creatively for major events.
A Global Destination
Beyond competitions, Miami is positioning itself as a premier destination for sports-related meetings and conventions. The Miami Beach Convention Center continues to draw fitness and wellness events, benefiting from the city’s year-round sunshine and hospitality.
The new top 10 global ranking places Miami in elite company alongside Paris, Los Angeles, New York, London and Madrid. With the FIFA World Cup 26™ on the horizon, officials say the city is poised to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans, athletes, and visitors alike—further cementing its status as a global sports capital.
