Hong Kong has been ranked among the top 50 cities for sport in the world, a day after Italy’s consul general told the Post it “could host any major event” while adding his voice to those backing a bid for the 2036 Olympics.
The city rose from 77 in 2024 to come in at No 50 in this year’s rankings, released by global consultancy Burson on Wednesday, although it still lagged behind several regional rivals, including Beijing and Tokyo.
The list identified the top 100 cities based on perception and feedback from sports leaders and industry experts. Paris topped the rankings, followed by Los Angeles, New York, London and Madrid.
Tokyo, at 13, was Asia’s highest-ranked city, with Beijing a place behind. Singapore was 52nd.
Despite not having swimming, athletics, tennis or basketball facilities suitable for major international events, Carmelo Ficarra, the Italian consul general, said he believed Hong Kong could ultimately stage those if it wanted to.
“Hong Kong can host any major event,” Ficarra, whose country is hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics, said. “But then there’s a matter of internal commitment, internal policy, but once it is there, they have to go on following the projects, but Hong Kong has all it needs to host major events.
