Sports Lovers’ Guide to Sydney 2025: Big Games and Bigger Stays
Sydney is set to captivate sports enthusiasts in 2025 with a vibrant and diverse line-up of world-class events. As one of Australia’s most iconic cities, Sydney boasts state-of-the-art venues and an unparalleled passion for sport, making it a prime destination for fans across the globe. Whether you’re a cricket lover, a motorsports fanatic, or an avid rugby follower, the city offers something for everyone.
The year’s calendar features everything from thrilling cricket matches at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground to high-octane motorsport action at Sydney Motorsport Park. Rugby League fans can look forward to the much-anticipated State of Origin series, while Rugby Union takes centre stage with the British & Irish Lions tour. Meanwhile, events like the Sydney Marathon and the globally renowned Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race showcase the city’s diverse sporting culture.
Located amidst stunning harbour views and excellent infrastructure, Sydney is more than just a host city; it’s a destination where sport, culture, and community come together. As the hub of sporting events in Sydney 2025, the city ensures fans can enjoy seamless access to all the action while exploring its world-famous attractions.
This year promises to be a standout for sports lovers. With a rich blend of international and local events, Sydney firmly cements itself as a global sports capital. Whether you’re visiting for a single event or planning a packed itinerary, Sydney is ready to deliver an unforgettable experience.
January Highlights: Starting the Year with Action
Sydney’s sporting calendar kicks off in style this January, featuring cricket, basketball, and world-class venues. With easy access across the city, fans can enjoy a wide range of thrilling events.
Australia vs India Test Match
- Where: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
- When: 3–7 January
Start the year with one of cricket’s most anticipated rivalries. Australia takes on India in a Test match at the historic SCG, offering fans five days of world-class cricket.
Australia vs England Women’s ODI
- Where: North Sydney Oval
- When: 12 January
Celebrate women’s sport as Australia faces England in a One Day International. North Sydney Oval provides an intimate setting to witness top-tier cricket.
Basketball Action at Qudos Bank Arena
- Where: Qudos Bank Arena
- When: 19 January (NBL/WNBL Double Header), 24 January (Sydney Kings vs Adelaide 36ers)
Basketball fans can enjoy back-to-back action, from the NBL/WNBL double header to the Sydney Kings hosting the Adelaide 36ers.
Accessibility and Variety
Sydney’s well-connected transport network ensures easy travel to these venues. Whether you’re a cricket or basketball fan, January’s sporting events in Sydney 2025 set the stage for an exciting year ahead.
February Thrills: Packed with Sporting Action
February in Sydney is a month of high-energy sports, showcasing the city’s ability to host a diverse range of thrilling events. From the octagon to the racetrack, there’s something to captivate every fan.
UFC 312: A Night of Mixed Martial Arts Excellence
- Where: Sydney
- When: 9 February
UFC 312 brings the world’s top fighters to Sydney for an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts. Fans can expect electrifying bouts, dramatic finishes, and an intense atmosphere. With MMA growing in popularity globally, this event is a standout moment for Sydney sports in 2025, drawing local enthusiasts and international visitors alike. Whether it’s a highly anticipated rematch or a title bout, UFC 312 promises action-packed entertainment.
Supercars Sydney 500: The Season Opener
- Where: Sydney Motorsport Park
- When: 21–23 February
The Supercars Sydney 500 marks the start of the motorsport season with three high-octane sprint races. Sydney Motorsport Park transforms into a hub of speed and excitement as top drivers from around Australia and beyond compete for early points in the championship. The roar of engines, edge-of-your-seat overtakes, and the vibrant fan zone make this a must-attend event for motorsport lovers. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the sport, the Sydney 500 offers an unparalleled racing experience.
March to May: Autumn Sporting Delights
As the summer heat gives way to the cooler months, Sydney’s sports calendar remains vibrant, offering fans a mix of iconic events. From football to athletics, the autumn months bring diverse opportunities to experience world-class sporting action.
Socceroos vs Indonesia: World Cup Qualifier
- Where: Sydney Football Stadium
- When: 20 March
Sydney hosts an important World Cup qualifier as the Socceroos face Indonesia. Football fans can expect a thrilling match as the national team strives to secure its place on the global stage. The newly upgraded Sydney Football Stadium provides the perfect setting, combining state-of-the-art facilities with an electric atmosphere.
Sydney Track Classic: Australia’s Premier Athletics Meet
- Where: Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre
- When: 15 March
The Sydney Track Classic is a highlight of Australia’s athletics season, attracting elite athletes from across the globe. Competitors showcase their skills in events ranging from sprints to high jumps, delivering edge-of-your-seat excitement. For spectators, this is a chance to witness future Olympians in action while soaking up the energy of a world-class track and field event.
Winter Excitement: July Sports in Sydney
Sydney’s winter season brings with it a palpable energy as rugby takes centre stage. The city’s passion for large-scale sporting events reaches new heights, with July offering one of the most anticipated matches of the year.
State of Origin – Game Three: The Decider
- Where: Accor Stadium
- When: 9 July
The State of Origin series culminates in Sydney with the decisive Game Three. Known for its fierce rivalry between New South Wales and Queensland, this match often determines the winner of the series. The atmosphere at Accor Stadium is electric, with fans from both states creating an unforgettable spectacle of passion and pride. As one of rugby league’s most celebrated traditions, this event is a highlight on Sydney’s sports calendar.
Sydney’s Passion for Rugby League
Rugby league holds a special place in Sydney’s heart, and the State of Origin is more than just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon. From pre-game festivities to the roar of the crowd at kick-off, the city comes alive during this iconic event. Accor Stadium’s capacity and top-tier amenities make it the perfect venue to host such a high-stakes clash.
Sydney Swans and AFL: A Key Part of the City’s Sporting Culture
- Sydney Swans Opening Round: Friday, 7 March
- Where: SCG
- AFL Season: 6 March – 27 September
AFL is a major part of Sydney’s sporting identity, with the Sydney Swans at the heart of the city’s football culture. The team enjoys strong support, and their home matches at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) provide an exciting atmosphere for fans.
The 2025 AFL season begins on 6 March, with the Swans’ opening match on 7 March at the SCG. Running until 27 September, the competition features 18 clubs battling for supremacy. With a proud history and a dedicated fan base, the Sydney Swans continue to bring high-quality AFL action to the city, making their games a key part of the sporting calendar.
A Winter of Sporting Energy
July showcases Sydney’s ability to host world-class events that unite communities and draw fans from across the country. The State of Origin, with its dramatic intensity and unrivalled atmosphere, exemplifies why Sydney is a premier destination for sporting events in 2025.
Spring and Summer Events: August to October
As the weather warms, Sydney’s sporting scene blossoms into a vibrant showcase of world-class events. From iconic rugby clashes to exhilarating races, the city offers an unforgettable experience for fans during the spring and summer months.
Wallabies vs British & Irish Lions: Rugby’s Grand Stage
- Where: Accor Stadium
- When: 2 August
The Wallabies face the British & Irish Lions in the final Test of their highly anticipated tour. This rare encounter draws rugby fans from around the globe, creating an electric atmosphere at Accor Stadium. With passionate supporters and high-stakes competition, this match exemplifies the global appeal of rugby in Sydney.
Sydney Marathon: Running Through Iconic Landmarks
- Where: Across Sydney
- When: 31 August
The Sydney Marathon is more than a race—it’s a celebration of endurance, community, and the city itself. Runners from around the world traverse a course that winds through Sydney’s most recognisable landmarks, including the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Recognised as part of the World Marathon Majors, this event elevates Sydney’s status on the global running stage.
NRL Grand Final: The Pinnacle of Rugby League
- Where: Accor Stadium
- When: 5 October
Rugby league’s most prestigious event takes place in Sydney, bringing together fans from all over Australia. The NRL Grand Final is the culmination of the season, where the top two teams battle it out for ultimate glory. Accor Stadium comes alive with the roar of tens of thousands of fans, creating a truly iconic sports experience.
The Everest: Australia’s Richest Horse Race
- Where: Royal Randwick
- When: 18 October (Date TBC)
The Everest is a spectacle of speed and strategy, attracting the finest racehorses and jockeys from around the world. As the richest horse race in Australia, it’s a day of high stakes, glamour, and excitement at Royal Randwick. The event’s unique format and thrilling atmosphere make it a standout on Sydney’s spring calendar.
December Grand Finale: Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
Sydney closes its spectacular sporting year with the prestigious Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, a highlight on the global sailing calendar. Starting on Boxing Day, this iconic event brings together the world’s best sailors for a thrilling 628-nautical-mile journey from Sydney Harbour to Hobart.
A Tradition of Excellence
With a history dating back to 1945, the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is steeped in tradition and remains one of the most challenging ocean races in the world. The event attracts elite sailors, ambitious amateurs, and an audience spanning every continent. The excitement begins at the starting line in Sydney Harbour, where thousands of spectators gather along the shoreline to witness the dramatic departure of the fleet.
A Global Spectacle
The race’s international appeal lies in its reputation for testing endurance, strategy, and teamwork. Competitors navigate unpredictable weather conditions as they traverse the Tasman Sea, creating an edge-of-your-seat spectacle for followers worldwide. The event’s media coverage and live broadcasts ensure the drama unfolds far beyond Sydney, solidifying its status as a global sporting phenomenon.
Sydney’s Role in the Event’s Success
Sydney Harbour serves as the perfect backdrop for the race’s grand beginning. The city comes alive with festivities, including waterfront celebrations and prime viewing spots. Visitors and locals alike are drawn to this unique sporting tradition, blending the excitement of the race with Sydney’s stunning summer atmosphere.
Why Sydney Harbour Hotel is the Perfect Choice for Sports Fans
Sydney Harbour Hotel is perfectly positioned to cater to sports enthusiasts attending sporting events in Sydney 2025. Located just steps from Circular Quay, the hotel offers unbeatable access to Sydney’s comprehensive transport network, ensuring an easy journey to major sporting venues.
From Circular Quay, you can catch trains, ferries, or buses to key locations like Accor Stadium for the State of Origin or the Sydney Cricket Ground for iconic cricket matches. The nearby light rail also makes travelling to central venues like Qudos Bank Arena quick and convenient. Whether you’re attending the Wallabies vs British & Irish Lions Test or cheering on runners at the Sydney Marathon, the hotel’s location allows you to focus on enjoying the event, not the logistics.
Post-match, the vibrant Circular Quay area offers plenty of opportunities to unwind. From waterfront dining to exploring Sydney’s landmarks, you can make the most of your visit before heading back to a comfortable and welcoming stay. For sports fans, Sydney Harbour Hotel’s central location is the ideal choice for an action-packed itinerary.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Sydney’s Sporting Events
Planning ahead is key to maximising your time in Sydney’s dynamic sporting calendar. Here are some tips to ensure your experience is smooth and memorable:
Book Your Tickets Early
Tickets to popular events such as the NRL Grand Final and the Sydney Marathon can sell out quickly. Securing your spot early ensures you won’t miss the action.
Take Advantage of Public Transport
Sydney’s transport network is well-equipped to handle event crowds. Trains and buses from Circular Quay connect to major venues like the SCG and Qudos Bank Arena. Ferries offer a scenic route to other parts of the city, making travel both efficient and enjoyable.
Stay Near a Transport Hub
Accommodation near Circular Quay, such as Sydney Harbour Hotel, simplifies getting to and from events. Its central location ensures easy access to public transport and reduces travel time between matches.
Plan for Crowds
Event days can bring increased activity around venues. Arrive early to secure your seat and enjoy the pre-event atmosphere.
Combine Sport with Sightseeing
While in Sydney, take time to explore its renowned attractions. Walk across the Harbour Bridge, visit the Opera House, or enjoy a ferry ride to see the city from the water. These activities add to the excitement of your sports-focused trip.