Perth is gearing up for a massive year of international sport in 2026, with the city confirmed to host six major global sporting events. This exciting lineup promises to bring world-class athletes and thousands of visitors to Western Australia, cementing Perth's reputation as a premier destination for major tournaments.
A Packed Calendar of World-Class Competition
The schedule for 2026 is headlined by two of the most prestigious events in their respective sports. The FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) will be held from October 20 to 25, transforming the Perth Superdrome into a hub of aquatic excellence. This event is a short-course spectacle, featuring faster turns and more intense racing than its long-course counterpart.
Hot on its heels, the IAAF World Cross Country Championships will take place on March 28. This historic event, known for its gruelling and unpredictable terrain, will see the world's best distance runners battle it out on a challenging course, bringing a raw and exciting form of athletics to the city.
More International Events on the Bill
The sporting feast doesn't stop there. Perth will also welcome back the World Rugby Sevens tournament, a fan-favourite known for its fast-paced action and vibrant festival atmosphere. The exact dates for this event are still to be finalised, but it is locked in for the 2025-26 World Series season.
Adding to the diversity of sports, the World Lacrosse Women's Under-20 World Championship is scheduled for August. This event will showcase the future stars of the rapidly growing sport, highlighting skill and athleticism on a global stage.
Furthermore, the city will host the World Team Table Tennis Championships and the World Masters Athletics Championships Indoor. The table tennis event will feature national teams competing for glory, while the masters athletics meet will celebrate veteran athletes from around the globe, proving that competitive spirit knows no age limit.
A Major Boost for Perth and WA
This concentrated series of events is a significant coup for Perth and Western Australia. It represents a coordinated effort by the state government and Tourism WA to attract and secure blockbuster international sporting competitions. The economic impact is expected to be substantial, with an influx of athletes, officials, media, and spectators providing a major boost to local hotels, restaurants, and tourism operators.
Beyond the immediate economic benefits, hosting these events raises Perth's international profile. It allows the city to showcase its world-class venues, beautiful setting, and organisational capability to a global audience. For local sports fans, it's a rare opportunity to witness elite international competition right on their doorstep across a wide range of disciplines, from the pool to the parkland.
The announcement solidifies 2026 as a landmark year for sport in Western Australia. With preparations already underway, Perth is poised to deliver an unforgettable series of events that will celebrate athletic excellence and leave a lasting legacy for the community.
