A 2025 Sports Calendar for Journalists

Don’t get caught on the sidelines – 2025 is bringing its A-game! While 2024 dazzled us with Olympic feats and championship heroics, the new year is ready to write its own legacy with historic firsts, dynasty quests and compelling narratives across every sport, from traditional playing fields to virtual arenas. Whether you’re a dedicated sports writer or simply someone who wants to stay ahead of the water cooler conversation, we’ve got you covered.  

From college football’s revolutionary playoff format to Formula 1’s dramatic reshuffling, and the explosive growth of competitive gaming leagues, the storylines are set to keep media rooms buzzing from January’s winter chill to December’s championship chases. To help you navigate and plan around the moments that will dominate the sporting conversation – both on the field and in the digital realm – here’s your comprehensive guide to the year’s biggest events and the developing stories you’ll want to keep tabs on. 

Jan. 9-20: NCAA College Football Playoff National Championship

The expanded 12-team playoff format has already delivered unprecedented drama. After intense first-round matchups and quarterfinal thrillers in the traditional bowl games, we’re down to the final four. Notre Dame faces Penn State in the Orange Bowl (Jan. 9, ESPN, 7:30 PM ET), while Ohio State brings their Rose Bowl momentum against Texas in the Cotton Bowl (Jan. 10, ESPN, 7:30 PM ET). The road concludes at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Jan. 20, ESPN, 7:30 PM ET). Ohio State enters as the favorite after dismantling top-seed Oregon, but this new format has already proven anything’s possible. Be on the look out for how the expanded format has transformed the landscape, smaller programs breaking through and traditional powers forced to adapt to multiple high-stakes games. 

Jan. 12-26: Australian Open

Melbourne Park transforms into a summer festival with tennis at its heart. While Rod Laver Arena hosts the marquee matches, the real stories live in the grounds’ vibrant atmosphere. The Grand Slam Oval buzzes with live music, global cuisine and pop-up bars, while evening sessions create dramatic visuals against the city skyline. Pro tip: Australia Day (Jan. 26) coincides with finals weekend – perfect for cultural color pieces. Don’t miss practice court access between venues for intimate athlete profiles. 

Jan. 23-25: Winter X Games Aspen

Buttermilk Mountain in Aspen, Colorado, will host thrilling skiing and snowboarding events like SuperPipe, Slopestyle and Big Air, plus the debut of Street Style as a medaled event. This winter showcase promises breathtaking tricks and unforgettable action. 

Feb. 9: Super Bowl LIX

The Big Game meets the Big Easy as New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome hosts what promises to be a historic championship. The Kansas City Chiefs enter the postseason at 15-2, eyeing an unprecedented third straight championship title. The Detroit Lions, after their explosive 15-2 season and league-leading offense, chase their first championship appearance, while Josh Allen’s Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens have emerged as serious contenders. Teams will navigate new onside kick rules, now limited to declared fourth-quarter attempts while trailing. 

Fox’s English-language broadcast is teaming with a groundbreaking Spanish-language partnership between Fox Deportes and Telemundo, marking the broadest Hispanic distribution in the game’s history. The dual Spanish broadcasts aim to expand the NFL’s reach among Latino audiences, with each network producing its own unique coverage. 

The halftime show will feature Kendrick Lamar, the Pulitzer Prize-winning artist bringing his masterful storytelling and electric stage presence to sports’ biggest spectacle. Potential guest appearances could include long-time collaborators like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg or Baby Keem, while speculation swirls about appearances from SZA or Taylor Swift. The 14-time Grammy winner’s catalogue, from “good kid, m.A.A.D city” through “Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers,” provides a deep well of anthemic moments perfect for the stage. 

Feb. 13-16: Daytona 500

NASCAR’s “Great American Race” roars to life at Daytona International Speedway, where William Byron returns to defend his 2024 crown in the 67th running of stock car racing’s most prestigious event. The season opener has become famous for producing unexpected drama – from longshot victories like Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s 2023 triumph to “The Big One,” multi-car crashes that can reshape the race in seconds. 

While veterans like Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch bring championship pedigree, emerging stars like Championship 4 contender Tyler Reddick look to make their mark in NASCAR’s crown jewel. The 200-lap spectacle (aired on Fox) combines Daytona’s notorious unpredictability with the raw energy of a fresh season, where every driver starts with equal championship hopes. Beyond the track, the legendary infield camping scene and Daytona Beach community provide rich storytelling opportunities about racing’s enduring cultural impact. 

Feb. 19 – March 9: ICC Men’s Champions Trophy (Cricket)

Marking its first appearance since 2017 and co-hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, this prestigious tournament features eight top teams battling across 15 high-stakes matches. Defending champions Pakistan are set to ignite the competition in the opening match against New Zealand on Feb. 19 in Karachi. The excitement peaks with the much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on Feb. 23 in Dubai. With cricket powerhouses like Australia, England and South Africa also in the mix, fans can expect a series of thrilling encounters, culminating in a grand finale on March 9. This tournament promises to deliver unforgettable moments, showcasing the very best of international cricket.  

March 16 – April 7: March Madness 

March Madness 2025 is set to deliver three weeks of heart-pounding college basketball action from March 16 to April 7, culminating in the championship game at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The tournament begins with Selection Sunday on March 16, followed by the First Four in Dayton, Ohio (March 18-19), and first and second rounds across multiple cities from March 20-23. Regional semifinals (Sweet 16) and finals (Elite Eight) will take place March 27-30 in Newark, Atlanta, Indianapolis and San Francisco, before the Final Four on April 5 and the championship game on April 7, both at the Alamodome. 

Both men’s and women’s tournaments will feature 68 teams competing through regional rounds, with South Carolina leading women’s odds and Auburn topping the men’s betting favorites. Fans can expect electrifying matchups, potential upsets and the pure excitement that makes college basketball’s premier tournament a national spectacle. 

March 24-25: TGL Season 2 Championship

Golf gets an electrifying reimagining at Palm Beach Gardens’ SoFi Center, where six elite teams battle in a venue that feels more like a playoff atmosphere than a traditional tournament. Players face off in a state-of-the-art arena, launching shots into a massive 64-by-53-foot simulator screen before tackling a dynamic putting surface that can recreate any green in golf. 

Tiger Woods’ Jupiter Links and Rory McIlroy’s Boston Common headline a star-studded field, while defending champions Atlanta Drive GC, led by Justin Thomas, look to repeat. The innovative format brings fans closer than ever, with players mic’d up throughout the competition. Collin Morikawa’s Los Angeles GC and Xander Schauffele’s New York squad round out a field that includes rising stars like Tom Kim and Ludvig Åberg. 

Year two of the league brings enhanced technology and evolved gameplay, creating a fresh take on golf that’s drawing both traditional fans and new audiences. The combination of elite competition and interactive elements offers a glimpse of where the sport might be headed. 

April 7-13: Master’s Tournament

Augusta National awakens as Scottie Scheffler returns to defend his title in the 89th Masters Tournament, set for April 7-13. A star-studded lineup including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and the legendary Tiger Woods will battle for golf’s most prestigious green jacket. From the Women’s Amateur to the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals, young guns and seasoned veterans will create a high-stakes showdown beneath blooming azaleas, promising four days of unforgettable golf that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. 

May 2-4: Miami Grand Prix

Buckle up for the ultimate motorsport mayhem at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix! Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez from Red Bull are gunning for glory, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc is ready to challenge. But don’t count out the rising stars — Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri and hometown hero Logan Sargeant are primed to shake things up on this electrifying street circuit. With live concerts, gourmet food and celebrity chaos surrounding the Hard Rock Stadium, this isn’t just a race — it’s a full-blown racing carnival that’ll have fans on the edge of their seats from May 2-4! ESPN and F1TV will bring all the high-speed drama straight to your screens.

May 3: Kentucky Derby

Get ready for the thundering hooves of the Kentucky Derby 2025! On May 3, Churchill Downs will come alive with heart-pounding excitement as the top thoroughbreds battle for racing glory. Leading the pack is East Avenue, with rising stars like Chancer McPatrick and Poster hot on his heels. It’s anyone’s race in this high-stakes showdown that will crown the next champion of America’s most legendary horse race.

May 22-25: Monaco Grand Prix  

The Monaco Grand Prix, an iconic event in the world of Formula 1, returns to the stunning principality from May 22-25. Since 1929, the race has been held on the legendary Circuit de Monaco, a demanding street circuit that has tested the skills of the world’s best drivers for nearly a century. With its tight corners, elevation changes and glamorous atmosphere, the Monaco Grand Prix is a must-see event for any F1 enthusiast. 

May 25: Indianapolis 500

Racing mayhem descends on Indianapolis! The 109th Indy 500 explodes on May 25 with 33 high-octane drivers ready to chase glory, including Marco Andretti making his milestone 20th start. Hybrid engines, rock concerts and pure speed promise an epic day of motorsport madness. One race, one championship, total adrenaline. 

May 31: UEFA Champions League Final

Champions League takes over the Allianz Arena in Munich on May 31 as Europe’s elite clubs battle it out in the UEFA Champions League final. Who will come out on top? Will it be the powerhouse Liverpool squad, the rising stars of Arsenal or the always-formidable Real Madrid looking to defend their title? Don’t count out Manchester City or surprising contenders like Bayer Leverkusen. 

With a thrilling new 36-team format in the group stage, the path to glory is more exciting than ever. Mark your calendars and get ready to witness history in the making at the 2024-25 Champions League final.

May 25-June 8: French Open

The French Open 2025 is set to be a real clay-court clash of the titans. The Stade Roland Garros in Paris will transform into a battleground where players slide, grunt and leave it all on the red dirt. Will Carlos Alcaraz continue his reign, or will someone else rise to challenge his dominance? Keep your eyes peeled for Iga Swiatek, who’s practically a clay-court queen. And don’t count out dark horses ready to stir up some serious drama. Expect epic rallies, diving saves and maybe even a few tantrums as these tennis warriors fight for every single point.  

June 5-22: NBA Finals

The 2025 NBA Finals tip off on June 5, with the defending champions, the Boston Celtics, aiming for back-to-back titles after their dominant victory over the Dallas Mavericks in 2024. The Celtics remain favorites, led by their dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Hot contenders include the Oklahoma City Thunder, showcasing a league-best defense, and the surging Cleveland Cavaliers, who started the season undefeated under new coach Kenny Atkinson. With elite teams battling for the Larry O’Brien Trophy, the Finals promise an unforgettable conclusion to the season. 

June 15- July 13: FIFA Club World Cup

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is hitting the United States from June 15 to July 13, bringing together the titans of club football from across the globe. This expanded format will see 32 teams battling it out for the ultimate club prize. Expect fireworks as champions from various confederations clash in a series of high-stakes matches. Will European giants like Real Madrid or Manchester City continue their dominance? Or will South American powerhouses or other continental champions rise to challenge them? With more teams and more games, this tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle of world-class football, showcasing the best club talent the beautiful game has to offer. 

June 30-July 13: Wimbledon

Pimm’s at the ready! Wimbledon 2025 is back, serving up two weeks of grass-court glory from June 30-July 13. Will Djokovic conquer Centre Court again, or will Alcaraz steal the show? Can Swiatek dominate the ladies’ draw, or will someone else cause an upset? Expect aces, upsets and maybe a few rain delays as tennis royalty battles for the ultimate prize. 

July 5-27: Tour de France

The 2025 Tour de France promises a thrilling showdown as cycling’s top stars gear up for glory. Reigning champion Tadej Pogačar looks to defend his crown against fierce rivals like two-time winner Jonas Vingegaard and Grand Tour veteran Primož Roglič. Meanwhile, rising star Remco Evenepoel is eager to shake things up after a stellar debut. With this powerhouse lineup, fans can expect an epic battle for the yellow jersey, packed with drama, daring moves and unforgettable moments on France’s iconic roads. 

July 13-16: MLB All-Star Game

Batter up! The Midsummer Classic is heading to Atlanta! On July 15, Truist Park—home of the best show in baseball two years running—will host the MLB All-Star Game, where the best of the American and National Leagues collide. Expect monster home runs, dazzling defensive plays and a whole lot of star power. Will Shohei Ohtani put on another two-way show? Can Ronald Acuña Jr. electrify his home crowd? Get ready for a night of baseball fireworks as the game’s biggest names battle for bragging rights.  

July 20 – Aug. 20: FIFA Women’s World Cup

The FIFA Women’s World Cup will take center stage in July and August 2025, hosted by Australia and New Zealand. This global showcase of women’s football promises thrilling matches as the world’s best teams compete for the ultimate prize. Defending champions Spain aim to retain their crown, but powerhouses like the USA, Germany and England will pose fierce challenges. Expect electrifying goals, passionate fans and unforgettable moments on the pitch. 

Aug. 7-17: The World Games

Mark your calendars as Chengdu, China, hosts the 12th edition of The World Games. This global celebration features over 35 unique sports, from adrenaline-pumping drone racing and parkour to classics like karate, squash, and powerlifting. With 5,000 athletes from 100+ countries competing, the event promises thrilling action across arenas and outdoor venues. Add Chengdu’s vibrant culture and spicy Sichuan cuisine, and you’ve got a perfect mix of sport and festivity. Get ready for a showcase of athleticism, innovation and global unity. 

Aug. 13-24: Little League World Series

The Little League World Series is back, bringing all the heart, hustle and home runs to South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Get ready for diving catches, clutch hits and maybe even a few tears (of joy, of course!). Will a team from the U.S. take home the crown, or will an international powerhouse emerge victorious? Expect thrilling games, inspiring stories and a reminder of the pure joy of baseball. It’s more than just a game; it’s a summer tradition. 

Aug. 22-24: Summer X Games Sacramento 2025

Taking place at Cal Expo in Sacramento, California, the Summer X Games will celebrate its 30th anniversary with epic competitions in skateboarding, BMX, and Moto X, featuring top athletes and jaw-dropping stunts. 

Aug. 25 – Sept. 7: US Open Tennis

Lights, camera, tennis! The US Open electrifies New York City and Flushing Meadows is set to be a battleground. Can Alcaraz back up his previous win, or will Djokovic remind everyone why he’s a legend? Keep an eye on rising stars like Sinner ready to make their mark. On the women’s side, will Swiatek’s dominance continue or will Gauff finally capture that elusive US Open title? Two weeks of drama, upsets and incredible tennis are guaranteed. 

Sept. 4-8: Italian Grand Prix

The roar of engines will echo through Monza as the Formula 1 circus descends upon Italy for the Italian Grand Prix. Get ready for high-speed action, daring overtakes and the passionate Tifosi cheering on their favorite drivers. Will Verstappen continue his dominance, or will Ferrari finally deliver a home victory? Can other contenders like Mercedes or McLaren challenge for the podium? Expect thrilling races, strategic pit stops and maybe even a few dramatic crashes at this historic circuit. 

Sept. 6 – Oct. 26: Rugby World Cup

Australia will host the Rugby World Cup, bringing together the planet’s top rugby nations. Teams like South Africa, New Zealand and England will battle for supremacy in this physically demanding and strategic competition. The tournament is set to captivate fans worldwide with packed stadiums and intense rivalries. 

Sept. 26-28: Ryder Cup 

USA vs. Europe. It’s more than just a golf tournament; it’s a rivalry. The Ryder Cup is coming to Bethpage Black in New York, promising three days of intense match play. After Europe’s dominant victory in Rome in 2023, will the Americans defend their home turf and avenge their loss, or will the Europeans stage another impressive win on foreign soil? Expect passionate crowds, clutch putts and an electric atmosphere as these two teams battle for bragging rights. It’s going to be a showdown you won’t want to miss. 

Oct. 17-19: US Grand Prix

The thrill of speed, the smell of burning rubber, and the excitement of the chase—Formula 1 is back in the USA! The United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, is set to deliver another high-octane spectacle. Will Verstappen continue his dominance on this challenging track, or will rivals like Leclerc, Hamilton or Russell challenge for the top spot? Expect thrilling overtakes, strategic pit stops and a roaring crowd as the world’s best drivers battle it out under the Texas sun. It’s going to be a wild ride! 

Oct. 27 – Nov. 1: World Series

October baseball. Two teams. One trophy. Will the Los Angeles Dodgers prove their championship run wasn’t a fluke, or will a hungry challenger rise to claim baseball’s ultimate prize? Expect dramatic home runs, tense pitching duels and unforgettable moments that will etch themselves into baseball history. 

Nov. 20-22: Las Vegas Grand Prix

Viva Las Vegas! Formula 1 is rolling the dice on the Strip for the Las Vegas Grand Prix and it’s going to be a high-stakes gamble for glory. Will Verstappen cash in another win, or will someone else hit the jackpot? What happens in Vegas… might just stay on the track (but we doubt it).

Nov. 21: Games of the Future 

The future is now! The Games of the Future are landing in the UAE, blurring the lines between physical and digital competition. Get ready for a mind-bending spectacle where athletes and gamers collide in “phygital” sports. Think drone racing with a physical obstacle course, robot wars with human controllers and esports played on treadmills. It’s a high-tech, high-energy fusion of athleticism and gaming prowess. Will the best gamers prove their physical dominance, or will the top athletes conquer the digital realm? Expect innovation, excitement and a glimpse into the future of sport. 

Dec. 5-7 : Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The sun sets on the Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi. The Yas Marina Circuit is primed for a thrilling finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Will Verstappen cruise to another victory under the twilight sky, cementing his championship win, or will rivals like Leclerc, Pérez or Hamilton steal the last hurrah of the season? Expect strategic brilliance, nail-biting overtakes and a dazzling display of lights as the drivers push their machines to the limit one last time. It’s the final showdown, where legends are made and the stage is set for next year’s battles. 

Get Ready, Take Your Mark…

Strap in, sports writers and fans – 2025 is a year that’s redefining excitement! From the adrenaline-fueled stunts of the X Games to the grueling climbs of the Tour de France, there’s action at every turn. F1 Racing promises high-speed drama on tracks around the world, while the Games of the Future are set to blow minds with cutting-edge tech and innovation. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of competition or marveling at the future of sports, this year has something for everyone. If we missed any epic sporting events, drop it in the comments so we can all join in on the hype! 

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