Sport

Well-known for its world-famous football teams, Manchester has much more to offer in the sporting world. Starting with football, Manchester is home to two world-famous and iconic football teams; Manchester City and Manchester United.

Though a local rivalry exists, the two teams have propelled Manchester onto the global stage in world football. Manchester United are at home in Old Trafford, the largest club football stadium in the UK, whilst Manchester City occupy the recently expanded Etihad Stadium, which was originally built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games. With both clubs offering stadium and club tours, as well as unique match day experiences, a visit is a must for any sports fan visiting Manchester.

As well as this, Manchester also has a number of lower league professional teams, including Rochdale, Oldham, Bury, Bolton, and Wigan. 

Manchester has a huge influence over some of the UK’s best known Olympians and Paralympians. Swimming and cycling world-champion Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, Taekwondo stars Jade Jones and Lutalo Muhammed, cyling gold medallists Jason Kenny and Laura Trott, relay medallist Kelly Massey, and 2016 gold-medallist hockey captain Kate Richardson-Walsh MBE all either live or train in Manchester.

Manchester is also the home to many other well-known sports teams. The Manchester Giants Basketball team reformed in 2011, and have reclaimed their place in the professional British Basketball League. Previously one of the largest clubs in UK basketball, Manchester Giants have rekindled the thriving amateur basketball scene in the region. Playing their home games at the Lucozade Powerleague Sportsdome opposite to Old Trafford, Manchester Giants offer the chance to catch professional basketball in the heart of Manchester.

Another team to recently reform is the Manchester Storm ice hockey team. Once one of Europe’s best supported teams, Manchester Storm reformed in 2015 and play in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), playing home games at the Altrincham Ice Dome.