Sydney is a sports-loving city with a rich calendar of sporting events throughout the year. From cricket and rugby to horse racing and marathons, there’s something for every sports enthusiast. Here’s a guide to some of the major sports events in Sydney:
Cricket
- Test Matches: Usually held at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) during the summer.
- Big Bash League: T20 cricket tournament featuring the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder.
- One Day Internationals: Held at the SCG throughout the cricket season.
Rugby
- NRL (National Rugby League): Regular season games and finals featuring Sydney teams.
- State of Origin: Annual best-of-three series between NSW and Queensland.
- Rugby Union: International matches featuring the Wallabies at Stadium Australia.
Australian Rules Football (AFL)
- Sydney Swans home games at the SCG.
- GWS Giants home games at Giants Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park.
Soccer
- A-League: Matches featuring Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers.
- International friendlies: Occasional matches featuring the Socceroos or visiting international teams.
Horse Racing
- The Everest: World’s richest race on turf, held at Royal Randwick in October.
- Golden Slipper: Prestigious race for two-year-olds at Rosehill Gardens in March.
- Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival: Series of races in March and April.
Running Events
- City2Surf: World’s largest fun run, from Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach in August.
- Sydney Marathon: Part of the Sydney Running Festival in September.
Swimming
- Cole Classic: Ocean swim at Manly Beach in February.
- Sydney Harbour Swim Classic: Open water swim in Sydney Harbour.
Sailing
- Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race: Starts on Boxing Day (December 26) from Sydney Harbour.
Motor Sports
- Sydney SuperNight: Supercars Championship event at Sydney Motorsport Park.
Tennis
- Sydney International: ATP and WTA tournament held in January before the Australian Open.
Tips for Sports Fans
- Book tickets early for popular events, especially international matches.
- Use public transport to get to venues, as parking can be limited and expensive.
- Check the specific venue’s policies on what you can bring into the grounds.
- For outdoor events, bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
- Consider joining a supporters club for your favorite team for ticket priority and other benefits.
Attending sports events in Sydney offers a unique cultural experience, allowing you to witness the passion of Australian sports fans and enjoy world-class athletic performances.
Related: What’s On, Experiences, Sydney Cricket Ground, Stadium Australia, Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney Harbour