Glasgow shortlisted for European sport title
If successful, the city would be the first to win the coveted title twice. It would also mark 20 years since it first gained the accolade back in 2003.
Glasgow has been shortlisted to be named European Capital of Sport in 2023.
If successful, the city would be the first to win the coveted title twice. It would also mark 20 years since it first gained the accolade back in 2003.
The city is up against Genoa in Italy and the winner will be announced in November.
Lord Provost Eva Bolander said: “Glasgow is a hugely diverse city with a long and proud history of using sport to break down barriers and bring people together. Sport’s unifying power is demonstrated daily here in Glasgow: a city packed with world-class sporting infrastructure offering activities for everyone.
“Our visitors from ACES Europe have toured numerous venues and met staff and volunteers delivering our exciting sporting participation programmes and initiatives, helping Glaswegians to become and stay active.
“We’re proud of our community engagement more than doubling our citizens’ participation in sport. We’re committed to engaging in grassroots sport to improve residents’ wellbeing and are extremely proud of the successful regeneration brought about by our investment in sport.
“Glasgow deserves the title of European Capital of Sport in 2023, and we’re looking forward to the judging process.”
Gian Francesco Lupattelli, President of ACES Europe, said: “It gives me great pleasure to return to Glasgow to assess the City for the European Capital of Sport 2023.
“I have very fond memories of the city when Glasgow was awarded the title in 2003 which was then only the third city to receive the award. I remember then some ground-breaking initiatives such as the GP referral scheme, the School of Sport, great sports development initiatives to encourage sports for all, and some fantastic facilities.
“Although the visit is not yet finished already, I can see that the city has not stood still since 2003 but gone from strength to strength, with the addition of some truly world-class facilities and sport and health initiatives taking place which has seen usage levels rise significantly.
“The final competition is now between Glasgow and Genoa and whilst I can’t predict what we will find when we visit Genoa in October, I can say that Glasgow is going to be a very strong contender for the award and I wish the City the best of luck.”
(news)