BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (May 18, 2026) – Birmingham has been named one of Sports Business Journal’s Best Sports Business Cities in 2026, ranking No. 38 among the top 50 nationwide.
The recognition reflects steady momentum for the city’s sports landscape in recent years. Birmingham previously ranked No. 42 in 2023 and climbed to No. 3 in 2024 among cities without a “Big Five” professional team, making significant progress as the region continues to invest in and expand its sports ecosystem, including the launch of a sports commission.
That growth has been fueled by a strong pipeline of major events and best-in-class venues. Since those rankings, Birmingham has hosted marquee competitions like the World Police & Fire Fames and SEC Baseball Tournaments, with additional high-profile events such as FISE.
Dan Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, shared the following:
“Being named one of the Best Sports Business Cities in 2026 by Sports Business Journal is a meaningful recognition of the collaboration across our community to elevate Birmingham as a sports destination,” said Dan Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau. “From youth and amateur play to collegiate championships, we’ve built a reputation for hosting high-caliber events that bring visitors to our city and create lasting economic impact. We have the venues, the experience and the track record to keep growing, and this recognition reinforces that Birmingham is firmly on the national sports map.”
Read more from Sports Business Journal here.
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About the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) is the official tourism and marketing organization for Birmingham and Jefferson County. Established in 1969, the non-profit agency generates positive economic impact by positioning the Greater Birmingham Region as a premier destination for conventions, sporting events, and domestic and international leisure travel. Birmingham and its neighboring municipalities welcome more than 4.17 million visitors each year, generating $2.62 billion in economic impact. Learn more at inbirmingham.com
