Sports tourism continues its rapid rise worldwide, with more travellers choosing destinations based on the sporting events and active experiences they offer. True to its reputation as a premier hub for international sporting events, İstanbul continues to deliver an action-packed sports calendar in 2026. Adding to this exceptional sporting calendar, İstanbul will host the 38th Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race on 23 August 2026. From spectacular concerts and renowned arts and cultural festivals to prestigious international sporting events, the city’s calendar has never been more vibrant, giving visitors countless reasons to experience İstanbul beyond its iconic landmarks. This unique combination of cultural richness, organisational expertise, and premium sporting infrastructure has firmly established İstanbul as one of the world’s leading destinations for international sporting events.