Hangzhou announces an ambitious sports plan for 2025. [Photo/WeChat account: hzyy2022]

On April 3, fresh off a record-breaking World Cup qualifier that drew over 70,000 fans, Hangzhou announced an ambitious sports calendar for 2025 – promising over 360 events, including more than 50 international and national-level competitions.

Next year's lineup spans over 60 sports, from football, basketball, and tennis to fencing, horse-riding, and canoeing. Major events include the ATP250 Hangzhou Open, the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, the Hangzhou Super Cup in canoe sprinting, and the BWF World Tour Finals returning in December.

In addition to global tournaments, popular local and youth-focused events – like the Hangzhou Women's Half Marathon, Grand Canal Kayak Marathon, and grassroots basketball leagues – will further energize the city.

Hangzhou's "sports plus tourism" model continues to thrive. The recent football match alone generated 3.08 billion yuan in tourism revenue. Going forward, the city plans to deepen integration between culture, travel, and commerce, enhancing visitor experiences through themed consumption, nighttime activities, and tailored tourism packages.

"Hangzhou will build on its global vision and strive to become a top destination for international sports fans," said Yang Yingying, head of the Hangzhou Sports Bureau.

Fans cheer for Team China during the 2026 World Cup qualifier in Hangzhou on March 25. [Photo/WeChat account: hzyy2022]