4 Major 2025 Sporting Events You Can't Forget

After a few years of quiet stadiums, 2022 felt like a global celebration. It was a year defined by the return of massive, in-person athletic competitions that brought people together from all corners of the globe. The energy was electric, whether you were at the Kentucky Derby, Wimbledon, or the FIFA World Cup. This packed schedule of 2022 sporting events presented a unique opportunity for fans to make up for lost time, but it also created significant travel demands. Navigating sold-out flights and crowded airports can take the excitement out of any trip. That’s why smart travelers opted for the control and comfort of private charter, ensuring the focus remained on the thrill of the game.

There’s more to traveling than sprawling out beachside at luxury resorts and indulging in five-star meals at lavish ski lodges (although these activities can certainly add to the experience). Sometimes a destination is worth visiting for the events it hosts. Sports tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism as people embark on vacations to catch the game instead of some rays.

Here are some must-see sporting events to jet off to in 2022.

A Look Back at the Biggest Sporting Events of 2022

For sports fans, 2022 was an absolute whirlwind of can't-miss moments. The year was stacked with global tournaments that had us glued to our screens, from the snowy peaks of Beijing to the stadiums of Qatar. But watching from home is one thing; being there is another. For those who chase the thrill of live sports, the logistics of getting from one major event to the next can feel like a sport in itself. This is where the conversation shifts from commercial travel headaches to the seamless freedom of private aviation. It’s about transforming your journey into an effortless, enjoyable part of the adventure, ensuring you arrive rested and ready for the opening ceremony or the final whistle.

Iconic Annual Competitions

The year’s calendar was a true world tour. It kicked off with the Winter Olympics in Beijing, followed by the World Aquatics Championships in Budapest and the UEFA Women's Euro across England, all leading up to the historic FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Following this circuit would be a logistical puzzle with commercial flights. Instead, imagine creating your own schedule. Arranging a private charter allows you to fly directly between host cities on your timeline, turning a potentially stressful series of flights into a smooth and luxurious experience.

Back in the US, Super Bowl LVI saw the Los Angeles Rams clinch a thrilling victory, while the UK hosted the massive Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. High-profile events like these mean packed airports and limited flight availability. Flying privately lets you bypass the crowds entirely, arriving in style and comfort. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends for the big game or family for an inspiring event like the Invictus Games, you can choose the perfect aircraft from a diverse fleet to match your group’s size and needs, making the journey itself a highlight.

Kentucky Derby

May 6 & 7

This spring, history and sports collide at the world’s most iconic racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky for the 148^th annual Kentucky Derby. Thoroughbred horses have been running laps around Churchill Downs since 1875, making this the oldest continuously held major sporting event in the United States. Don your favorite Kentucky Derby hat, sip a mint julep, and take in the sights. Once the race is over, head to downtown Louisville and eat your way through Logan Street Market or indulge in a customized bourbon tour.

USGA U.S. Open

June 13 – June 19

The 2022 U.S. Open will take place at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts in June. Since 1895, this national golf championship has drawn crowds of spectators with an appreciation for the club-and-ball sport. Official travel packages include accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Boston, access to the event, daily roundtrip shuttle transportation, and a custom itinerary. Charter your jet and let the folks at On Location take care of the rest.

Wimbledon

June 27 – July 10

If you’re planning to attend a sporting match this year, why not make it the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world? Since 1877, sports fans have poured into the Croquet Club in Wimbledon, London to watch the best of the best go head-to-head on the court. While Wimbledon is undoubtedly known for tennis (duh!), the championship touts food offerings filled with high quality, seasonal, and sustainable British fare. Eat, drink, and get served!

TOUR DE FRANCE

July 1 – July 24

Sure, anybody can turn on their TV and watch the most famous cycling event on earth from the comfort of their sofa. Or better yet, head to their neighborhood pub with friends and cheer on their favorite cyclists while sipping a frothy pint of beer. The ultimate way to catch the annual multiple-stage bike race, however, is in person. Amuse-toi bien! (This is French for have fun! Better brush up before you go.)

2022 Grand Slam Winners

For tennis fans, 2022 was a year of historic wins and breakthrough performances. The four Grand Slam tournaments are the crown jewels of the sport, and they delivered some truly unforgettable moments on the court. From Melbourne to New York, the world’s top players battled for glory, giving spectators a season to remember.

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal kicked off the year by capturing his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title, while Australia’s own Ashleigh Barty won the women’s singles in a triumphant home-country victory.
French Open: The "King of Clay," Rafael Nadal, proved his dominance once again with a 14th title at Roland-Garros. On the women's side, Iga Świątek secured her second French Open championship, cementing her place at the top of the sport.
Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic claimed his seventh title on the iconic grass courts, while Elena Rybakina made history as the first player from Kazakhstan to win a Grand Slam singles title.
US Open: The season wrapped with rising star Carlos Alcaraz winning his first major title, and Iga Świątek capped off her incredible year with another Grand Slam victory in the women's singles.

These tournaments are more than just sporting events; they're global destinations that attract fans from all over. Following the action from continent to continent is an incredible experience, and having the right travel plan makes all the difference. A private jet charter allows you to move between cities on your own schedule, ensuring you arrive rested and ready for every match point.

FIFA World Cup

November 21 – December 17

The most popular soccer match in the world will be held in Qatar this winter. And while the games will be at the forefront of attendees’ agendas, Qatar is known for its luxury beachside resorts like the Sealine Beach Resort and stunning weekend destinations like Al Ghariya Beach. Come for the soccer and stay for the ambiance.

Global Stages: 2022's Major Multi-Sport Events

Beyond the annual championships, 2022 was a banner year for major multi-sport events that brought the world together. These global gatherings are more than just competitions; they are vibrant celebrations of athletic prowess and international unity. For sports enthusiasts, attending these events means witnessing history across a dozen different disciplines in one trip. The logistics of hopping between venues, cities, or even countries for these festivals of sport can be demanding. This is where the efficiency and convenience of private travel truly shine, allowing you to create a bespoke itinerary that follows the action without the constraints of commercial schedules. Let’s look back at the global stages that defined the year.

The 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics

The year kicked off with the world’s eyes on Beijing, China, for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games in February, followed by the Winter Paralympics in March. Athletes from across the globe competed for gold in breathtaking displays of skill on the ice and snow. From the thrill of downhill skiing to the elegance of figure skating, these games provided countless unforgettable moments. Attending an event of this magnitude requires significant planning, but the reward is a front-row seat to see dreams realized. For those making the journey, a private charter offers a direct and comfortable route, bypassing the crowded terminals and complex connections often associated with travel to a major global event.

The Commonwealth and World Games

The spirit of friendly competition continued into the summer with two major events in two different Birminghams. First, the 2022 World Games took place in Birmingham, Alabama, showcasing sports not contested in the Olympics, like sumo wrestling and finswimming. Shortly after, athletes gathered in Birmingham, England, for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, a historic event that unites nations of the Commonwealth. These games have a unique, festive atmosphere, celebrating both elite performance and shared heritage. Traveling between the US and the UK to catch both events would be an incredible sports tour, made simple and enjoyable with a travel plan built around your schedule, not an airline's.

UEFA Women's Euro 2022

Women's soccer took center stage in England for the UEFA Women's Euro 2022. The tournament captured the attention of millions, shattering attendance and viewership records and highlighting the incredible talent and growing passion for the women's game. The final match at a sold-out Wembley Stadium was a historic moment, not just for the winning team but for women's sports as a whole. The energy across the host cities was electric, offering fans a chance to be part of a pivotal moment in sports history. The tournament’s success underscored a powerful trend: the unstoppable rise of women’s professional sports on the global stage.

The Invictus Games

In April, The Hague, Netherlands, hosted the Invictus Games, an event with a powerful purpose. Founded by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, these games bring together wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans to compete in a range of adaptive sports. More than a competition, the Invictus Games are a profound demonstration of resilience, courage, and the healing power of sport. The stories of the competitors are deeply inspiring, and attending the games is a moving experience that showcases the unbreakable human spirit. It’s a reminder that the heart of sport isn’t just about winning, but about overcoming adversity.

Champions Crowned: Highlights from Annual Tournaments

While global festivals celebrate a breadth of sports, the year was also defined by the dramatic conclusions of iconic annual tournaments. These are the events that build narratives over an entire season, culminating in a single, winner-take-all showdown. From the gridiron to the tennis court, new champions were crowned and legacies were cemented. For fans who follow their teams all year, being there for the final moment is the ultimate payoff. Flying in for the championship game is a popular tradition, and a private jet ensures you arrive rested and ready for the celebration, no matter where the final is held.

On the Gridiron: Super Bowl LVI and College Football

American football fans had plenty to celebrate in 2022. The College Football Playoff National Championship saw the Georgia Bulldogs triumph over the Alabama Crimson Tide in a hard-fought game. Just a few weeks later, the NFL season concluded with Super Bowl LVI, where the Los Angeles Rams defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in their home stadium. The Super Bowl is more than a game; it's a cultural phenomenon, and being there in person is an experience unlike any other. The excitement, the halftime show, and the tension of the final minutes make it one of the most sought-after tickets in sports.

Court-Side Action: NCAA Basketball and Grand Slam Tennis

The hardwood courts delivered their own brand of drama during March Madness. The NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament concluded with the Kansas Jayhawks cutting down the nets, while the South Carolina Gamecocks claimed the women's title. These tournaments are beloved for their unpredictability and the passionate energy of collegiate sports. On the global stage, the tennis world turned its attention to the four Grand Slams, the pinnacles of the sport. Each tournament offers a unique atmosphere, from the hard courts of Melbourne and New York to the iconic grass of Wimbledon and the clay of Roland-Garros.

Australian Open Champions

The 2022 tennis season kicked off with the Australian Open in Melbourne. The tournament delivered incredible storylines, with Rafael Nadal capturing his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam men's singles title in an epic five-set final. On the women's side, Australian native Ashleigh Barty delighted the home crowd by winning the women's singles title, a historic moment for the nation. For tennis aficionados, making the trip to Melbourne is a pilgrimage, offering a chance to watch the world's best compete under the summer sun and experience the famously friendly atmosphere of the "Happy Slam."

Global Goals: Soccer and Rugby Victories

The world's most popular sport, soccer, delivered thrilling international competition. While the FIFA World Cup in Qatar capped off the year, other major regional tournaments set the stage. In rugby, historic rivalries were renewed in the Six Nations Championship, a tournament that grips European sports fans every year. These events showcase not only incredible athletic talent but also fierce national pride. Traveling to support your home team in an international tournament is an unforgettable experience, filled with passion, camaraderie, and the chance to explore a new city while being part of the action.

2021 Africa Cup of Nations

Though named for the previous year, the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations was held in Cameroon in early 2022. The tournament culminated in a dramatic final where Senegal, led by superstar Sadio Mané, defeated Egypt in a penalty shootout to win their first-ever AFCON title. The victory sparked massive celebrations in Senegal and was a crowning achievement for a golden generation of players. The tournament is a vibrant celebration of African football, known for its passionate fans, colorful stadiums, and the incredible skill on display from top players who compete in leagues all over the world.

Six Nations Championship and Rugby World Cups

In European rugby, the 2022 Six Nations Championship was a showcase of power and precision. France emerged victorious, securing their first title and Grand Slam since 2010 with a decisive victory over England in the final round. The tournament, which also features Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales, is steeped in tradition and intense rivalries. While the men's and women's Rugby World Cups were held in different years, the Six Nations serves as a key indicator of form and a major prize in its own right, drawing huge crowds to iconic stadiums in Europe's capital cities.

From the Racetrack to the Marathon Route

For those who crave speed and endurance, 2022 offered plenty of high-stakes action. Motorsport events like the Daytona 500 and the Dakar Rally push the limits of engineering and driver skill, while major marathons test the boundaries of human endurance. These events attract dedicated fans who appreciate the incredible precision and dedication required to compete at the highest level. Whether you're trackside feeling the roar of the engines or cheering on runners as they cross the finish line, the atmosphere is charged with adrenaline and inspiration.

Daytona 500 and Dakar Rally

The world of motorsports kicked into high gear with two legendary races. The 2022 Daytona 500, NASCAR's most prestigious event, saw rookie Austin Cindric take the checkered flag in a thrilling photo finish. Meanwhile, the grueling Dakar Rally, held in Saudi Arabia, tested competitors and their vehicles against some of the world's most challenging terrain. These races are spectacles of speed, strategy, and endurance, drawing massive crowds and showcasing the cutting edge of automotive technology. Attending these events offers a sensory experience that television simply can't replicate.

Tokyo Marathon Winners

On the streets of Japan, the 2022 Tokyo Marathon saw two of the world's greatest marathoners cement their legacies. Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya won the men's race with a stunning performance, setting a new course record. His compatriot, Brigid Kosgei, won the women's race, reaffirming her status as one of the best in the world. As one of the six World Marathon Majors, the Tokyo Marathon attracts an elite field and thousands of amateur runners. For fans of the sport, witnessing these incredible athletes in person is a chance to see human potential pushed to its absolute limit.

The Global Impact of Sports Entertainment

The massive scale of these events highlights the incredible power of sports as a global unifier and economic engine. The numbers behind the world's biggest competitions are staggering, reflecting a shared passion that transcends borders and cultures. This global appeal is driven by compelling storylines, legendary athletes, and the simple, universal drama of competition. For brands, host cities, and broadcasters, these events represent enormous opportunities. For fans, they offer a chance to be part of a collective experience shared by billions of people around the world.

By the Numbers: Viewership and Revenue

The viewership figures for major sporting events are a testament to their global reach. The FIFA World Cup in Qatar, for example, engaged an estimated 5 billion people, making it one of the most-watched events in human history. The Winter Olympics in Beijing attracted over 2 billion unique viewers worldwide. Even primarily national events like the Super Bowl have a massive global footprint, with viewership figures well over 100 million. These numbers translate into billions of dollars in revenue from broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and tourism, making sports a significant driver of the global economy.

FIFA World Cup's Unprecedented Reach

The FIFA World Cup stands in a class of its own when it comes to global engagement. The estimated 5 billion people who connected with the 2022 tournament in Qatar—whether through watching matches, following on social media, or engaging with other content—represent more than half the world's population. This unprecedented reach makes the World Cup a cultural touchstone on a truly global scale. For one month, the tournament dominates conversations, media coverage, and social gatherings around the planet, uniting fans in a shared celebration of the beautiful game.

The Economic Power of the Olympics and Super Bowl

The Olympic Games and the Super Bowl are not just sporting events; they are massive economic enterprises. The 2.01 billion viewers for the Winter Olympics create immense value for broadcasters and sponsors who want to reach a global audience. Similarly, the Super Bowl's average viewership of over 127 million makes its commercial breaks the most expensive ad space on television. These events generate huge economic benefits for their host cities through tourism, infrastructure development, and global exposure, demonstrating the profound financial impact of elite sports entertainment.

Key Trends Driving Global Viewership

The way we consume sports is constantly evolving, driven by technological innovation and shifting cultural tides. The growth of digital streaming has made it easier than ever to watch games from anywhere in the world, on any device. At the same time, the remarkable growth of women's professional sports is bringing new athletes, stories, and audiences to the forefront. These trends are expanding the global sports audience, creating a more diverse, accessible, and dynamic landscape for fans everywhere.

The Growth of Digital Streaming

The rise of digital streaming platforms has fundamentally changed how fans watch sports. No longer tied to a traditional television broadcast, viewers can now stream games live on their phones, tablets, or laptops. This has made sports more accessible to a global audience, especially for fans who live in different time zones or want to follow niche sports that may not be covered by mainstream broadcasters. This shift gives fans more control and choice, allowing them to watch what they want, when they want, creating a more personalized and engaging viewing experience.

The Rise of Women’s Professional Sports

One of the most exciting trends in the sports world is the explosive growth of women's professional sports. Events like the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 and the NCAA women's basketball tournament are drawing record crowds and massive television audiences. This growth is fueled by increased investment, greater media coverage, and a new generation of superstar athletes who are inspiring fans around the world. As leagues expand and viewership continues to climb, women's sports are rightfully claiming their place in the primetime spotlight, creating new heroes and compelling new rivalries for a rapidly growing fanbase.

Adapting to Change: Postponements and Cancellations in 2022

While 2022 was filled with incredible sporting moments, it was also a year that highlighted the need for flexibility. Global affairs and logistical challenges led to the postponement or cancellation of several planned events, reminding athletes, organizers, and fans that schedules can change unexpectedly. This unpredictability is a key reason why adaptable travel plans are so valuable. Having the ability to change your itinerary at a moment's notice ensures that you can still make it to the big game, even if the circumstances shift.

Impact of Global Affairs on the Sports Calendar

The global sports calendar is not immune to world events. In 2022, this was evident when the 2022 Special Olympics World Winter Games, originally scheduled to be held in Kazan, Russia, were canceled due to geopolitical conflicts. Such decisions, while difficult, prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes and participants. These situations demonstrate how interconnected the world of sports is with broader global affairs and underscore the importance of contingency planning for both organizers and those traveling to attend the events.

Events Rescheduled from Previous Years

The calendar for 2022 was also unique because it included several major events that had been postponed from previous years, largely due to the pandemic. Competitions like the Winter Military World Games and the South-East Asian Games were successfully held in 2022 after being rescheduled from 2021. This stacking of events created an unusually dense and exciting year for sports fans. It also highlighted the resilience and dedication of the athletes and organizers who worked to ensure these important competitions could eventually take place safely.

The dynamic nature of the global sports calendar highlights the need for adaptable travel plans. Services like Hangar 7 Aviation's private jet charters offer the reliability and flexibility required to attend premier events, even when schedules shift, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is flying privately a better option for major sporting events? When you travel to a premier event like the World Cup or the Super Bowl, commercial airports are often chaotic and flights are overbooked. Flying privately allows you to completely bypass that stress. You can set your own schedule, use smaller and more convenient airports closer to the venue, and arrive feeling rested and ready to enjoy the experience. It’s about taking control of your travel so the journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

I want to attend several international tournaments in one year. How does a charter simplify that? Following a global sports circuit, like the Grand Slams, can be a logistical headache with commercial airlines. A private charter transforms it into a seamless world tour. You can fly directly between host cities on your timeline, without worrying about layovers or conflicting airline schedules. It allows you to create a bespoke itinerary that moves with the action, turning a complex trip into a smooth and luxurious adventure.

Is chartering a jet only practical for large groups? Not at all. While it’s a fantastic option for taking a group of friends or colleagues to a championship game, it’s just as practical for smaller groups, families, or even a solo traveler. The fleet includes aircraft of various sizes, so you can choose a jet that perfectly fits your needs. The experience is tailored to you, whether you need a spacious cabin for a team or an intimate setting for a couple.

How does flying privately help if an event schedule changes unexpectedly? Flexibility is one of the greatest advantages. If a match is postponed or a schedule shifts, a commercial ticket can become a major problem involving cancellation fees and the scramble to rebook. With a private charter, your travel plan is adaptable. We can work with you to adjust flight times and even destinations, giving you the agility to respond to last-minute changes without the added stress.

This sounds great, but what's the first step to arranging a private flight for an event? The process is more straightforward than you might think. It starts with a simple conversation. You would reach out to a charter specialist to discuss your trip details—where you want to go, how many people are traveling, and any specific needs you have. From there, they handle the rest, from finding the right aircraft to coordinating all the logistics, ensuring your travel is completely taken care of.

Key Takeaways

Build your travel around the event, not just the destination: Use major sporting events as the anchor for your trips to create truly unique experiences, turning a simple vacation into a front-row seat to history.
Prioritize flexible travel to match a dynamic sports calendar: Major events mean sold-out flights and packed terminals. A private charter gives you control over your schedule, allowing you to bypass the chaos and adapt to last-minute changes.
Look beyond the traditional main events for your next trip: The sports landscape is growing with exciting competitions in women's leagues and adaptive sports, opening up new and inspiring travel opportunities to witness different kinds of athletic greatness.

Private Jet Travel to the Biggest 2022 Sporting Events