Sports tournaments to see in 2025
Nothing beats watching your favourite sports team do their thing in real life. The energy of the crowd, the anticipation in the air, the adrenaline rush of being present, and the opportunity to explore a new destination make it a must-add to any travel bucket list.
So don your team colours and get ready to cheer on your team at these 2025 sports tournaments.
AFCON 2025
December 21, 2025 – January 16, 2026
Location: Morocco
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the crown jewel of African football. With Morocco hosting the 35th edition, fans can expect electrifying matches and a world-class football experience.
This marks the first time the tournament is held over the holiday season, so start making preparations to secure good deals. Côte D’Ivoire, the reigning champions, will defend their title against 23 other nations, including Nigeria, Senegal, and Egypt.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Nigerian citizens need a tourist visa, which can be obtained online through Morocco’s eVisa system or via a trusted agent like Lery Hago.
Flights: Direct flights from Lagos and Abuja to Casablanca are available and relatively short. Book early to secure good rates.
Local attractions: Between matches, explore Morocco’s souks, visit the medina in Fez or the stunning Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
Australian Open
January 12 – 26, 2025
Location: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia
The Australian Open kicks off the annual Tennis Grand Slam calendar and is a fan favourite for its lively atmosphere and top-tier tennis action. From Novak Djokovic’s legendary performances to rising stars like Coco Gauff, the tournament never fails to deliver. Although the 2025 season has already kicked off, fans can prepare for next year’s.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Nigerians need a visitor visa for Australia. Apply early to allow sufficient processing time.
Flights: Most flights from Nigeria involve layovers in cities like Dubai or Doha. Plan for a journey of 20+ hours.
Local attractions: Stroll along the Yarra River, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, or enjoy St. Kilda Beach in Melbourne.
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Formula 1 World Championship
March 14 – December 7, 2025
Locations: 24 venues worldwide, including Singapore, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi
The 2025 Formula 1 season marks the championship’s 75th anniversary. From high-speed thrills in Monaco to night races in Singapore, F1 promises a spectacular season.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will make his Ferrari debut and Max Verstappen will defend his 2024 World Championship title.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Visa policies vary depending on the race location. For Singapore, Qatar, or Abu Dhabi, Nigerian passport holders can get a visa, accommodation and tour package via a reliable travel agent like Lery Hago.
Local attractions:
In Singapore, don’t miss Gardens by the Bay or Marina Bay Sands.
In Qatar, explore Souq Waqif and the National Museum.
In Abu Dhabi, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or Ferrari World.
See the full list of venues below:
Country | Venue | Date |
Australia | Melbourne | March 14-16 |
China | Shanghai | March 21-23 |
Japan | Suzuka | April 4-6 |
Bahrain | Sakhir | April 11-13 |
Saudi Arabia | Jeddah | April 18-20 |
USA | Miami | May 2-4 |
Italy | Imola | May 16-18 |
Monaco | Monaco | May 23-25 |
Spain | Barcelona | May 30 – June 1 |
Canada | Montreal | June 13-15 |
Austria | Spielberg | June 27-29 |
United Kingdom | Silverstone | July 4-6 |
Belgium | Spa | July 25-27 |
Hungary | Budapest | August 1-3 |
Netherlands | Zandvoort | August 29-31 |
Italy | Monza | September 5-7 |
Azerbaijan | Baku | September 19-21 |
Singapore | Singapore | October 3-5 |
USA | Austin | October 17-19 |
Mexico | Mexico City | October 24-26 |
Brazil | Sao Paulo | November 7-9 |
USA | Las Vegas | November 20-22 |
Qatar | Lusail | November 28-30 |
Abu Dhabi | Yas Marina | December 5-7 |
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Golf Masters 2025
Women’s Amateur: April 5, 2025
Masters Tournament: April 10–13, 2025
Location: Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, USA
The Masters is a prestigious event in the golfing world, celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2025.
Golfing greats like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler are expected to return, alongside rising stars eager to leave their mark.
For the Women’s Amateur, watch out for emerging talent shaping the future of the sport.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Nigerians need a U.S. visitor visa (B1/B2). We recommend early application due to lengthy processing times.
Flights: Plan for a layover in major hubs like New York or Atlanta. Augusta is easily accessible from there.
Local attractions: After soaking in the tournament, explore Savannah’s historic districts or take a road trip to Atlanta.
WAFCON 2024
Dates:
Location: Morocco
The WAFCON, Africa’s prestigious women’s football tournament, will take place from July 5 to 26, 2025. Initially postponed due to the Olympics, this edition will serve as the finals for the 2024 competition and marks Morocco’s third consecutive time as host.
With powerhouses like Nigeria, South Africa, and Morocco in the mix, this promises to be one of the most fiercely contested editions yet. South Africa’s Banyana Banyana will aim to defend their title, while Nigeria’s Super Falcons, nine-time champions, will be pushing for a record-breaking 10th win.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Nigerian citizens need a tourist visa, which can be obtained online through Morocco’s eVisa system or via a trusted agent like Lery Hago.
Flights: Direct flights from Lagos and Abuja to Casablanca are available and relatively short. Book early to secure good rates.
Local attractions: Visit the medina in Tangier, Chefchaouen and Rabat.
Women’s Rugby World Cup
August 22 – September 27, 2025
Location: England (London, Bristol, Sunderland, Manchester, and more)
England, the reigning champions, will host the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup. This is set to be the largest edition yet, featuring an expanded format with 16 teams.
Keep an eye on New Zealand’s Black Ferns, who edged out Canada to win gold in the Olympics last year, and the US and France’s national teams.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Nigerians need a UK visitor visa. This requires early application.
Flights: Direct flights to London are available from Lagos or Abuja, with options for connections to other host cities.
Local attractions: Rugby enthusiasts can pair match days with exploring iconic sites like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Manchester’s Old Trafford stadium.
Tour de France
July 5 – 27, 2025
Location: Across France
The 112th edition of the Tour de France will span 21 stages over three weeks. Cyclists will traverse the challenging mountain climbs of the Alps to the iconic finish on the Champs-Élysées in Paris.
Defending champion Jonas Vingegaard is likely to return, alongside rivals like Tadej Pogačar and other elite riders.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: A Schengen visa is required for Nigerians traveling to France.
Flights: Direct flights to Paris are available, with additional travel needed for regional stages.
Local attractions: Visit the Eiffel Tower, go on wine tours in Bordeaux, or the lavender fields of Provence.
UEFA Champions League
Women’s Final: May 24, 2025, Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal
Men’s Final: May 31, 2025, Munich Football Arena, Germany
The UEFA Champions League is Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
For the men’s tournament, perennial favourites like Real Madrid and Manchester City will vie for glory. On the women’s side, FC Barcelona Femeni will aim to defend their title.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: Nigerians need a Schengen visa to enter Germany or Portugal.
Flights: Direct flights to Lisbon and Munich are limited, so plan for connecting flights.
Local attractions: In Lisbon, explore the charming Alfama district and Belém Tower. In Munich, visit Marienplatz and Neuschwanstein Castle.
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The Championships, Wimbledon
June 30 – July 13, 2025
Location: All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Wimbledon, London, England
Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and remains one of the most prestigious. It is the third Grand Slam and known for its grass courts and quintessential British experience.
Travel Tips:
Visa requirements: A UK visitor visa is required for Nigerians.
Flights: Direct flights to London are widely available.
Local attractions: Enjoy iconic London sights like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, or a day trip to Windsor Castle.
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