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Planning for legacy first – new routes to starer funding for cities hosting major events

This report explores the priorities and challenges host cities face once a major event bid has been won, and identifies potential sources of funding for this critical planning phase.

A group of sports fans standing together outside

Last updated: July 2026

Host Cities need new sources of funding for early legacy planning.

This report analyses the findings of interviews with leaders of major global events to crystallise the prime priorities and challenges faced immediately after a city has won the right to host a major event.

The first stage of planning is critical to securing the best possible long-term benefit for a city and its residents but historically it is difficult to fund early legacy planning.

Four potential sources of ‘starter funding’ are identified, along with a supporting case to enable cities to start a discussion with these potential investors.