Queensland’s capital city pipped Melbourne, Sydney and the Gold Coast to place 15th out of 100 leading sports cities around the world in the annual index by BCW, which saw future Games hosts Paris and Los Angeles take out first and second spot.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the global ranking cemented Brisbane’s growing reputation as one of the world’s best sporting destinations.

“Brisbane is already well known as a leading global sports city and that reputation is only going to be enhanced as we get closer to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Cr Schrinner said.

“We’ve got world-class stadiums near the city, vibrant precincts, year-round sunshine and great public transport, which all help to make Brisbane an ideal destination for fans to experience major sporting events.

“With a $25 billion pipeline of projects, Brisbane is a city that just keeps getting better.

“Global companies and sports federations tell us they see incredible opportunities in Brisbane, and we see a growing appetite for what our city has to offer.

“The message for sporting codes, event organisers and businesses is to get in now – Brisbane is alive with opportunity and on an exciting growth trajectory.”

Anthony Ryan, CEO of Brisbane Economic Development Agency, said the city is attracting attention across sporting codes and event organisers as a top host destination.

“Attracting a diverse calendar of major events to the city is a key priority as we prepare for Brisbane 2032, the biggest and greatest global event in nine years,” Mr Ryan said.

“We put on an incredible show as the hosts of the NRL Magic Round, Australian PGA Championship and soon the FIFA Women’s World Cup and have a proven record of delivering world-class events with an unrivalled visitor experience.

“Major events in Brisbane drive economic growth and stimulate strong business growth, flowing on to Brisbane hotels, restaurants, tourism operators and businesses.”

View the full 2023 ranking of sports cities.