Regardless of whether you can list the royal corgis by name or you don’t know Edward VII from Eddie the Eagle, you’ve probably heard that the United Kingdom has a new king. Charles’ coronation is set for 6 May 2023, and if you’re looking to celebrate in the festivities or simply fancy giving yourself the right royal treatment, you need look no further than these 10 sports events, which we believe are suitable for any sovereign!
Madrid Open (24 April – 7 May 2023), Tennis
Caja Mágica, Madrid, Spain
The Madrid Open may not have many direct ties to the British monarchy, but they’re not the only royal family around; the former Spanish Queen consort Sofia has been known to attend this prestigious event, and who could forget unofficial royal Rafael Nadal – the “King of Clay” - whose 5 singles titles are still a tournament record? For fans who want to watch the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 action in regal surroundings, Premium Seats are the way to go, providing some of the best views of Manolo Santana Stadium, VIP dining opportunities, and access to a complimentary bar and hospitality space. Premium Seat prices start from EUR €176, whilst standard single session tickets on Manolo Santana Stadium start from just €12.
Manchester United v Aston Villa (30 April 2023), Football
Old Trafford, Manchester, UK
If you’re seeking a refined hospitality experience at what promises to be a very fine football match, then look no further than Manchester United’s clash with Aston Villa. The Red Devils have looked back to their old best at times under new manager Erik ten Hag this season, while Villa have propelled themselves into European contention with some remarkable form since Unai Emery took charge in November. While it is Prince William who famously supports the Villans, as a Burnley supporter King Charles might appreciate the Lancashire package, which includes a 3-course menu and complimentary bar at Old Trafford Cricket Ground prior to the game. The package starts at GBP £320, while standard adult tickets start at £43.
Monday Night Raw: Fort Worth (1 May 2023), Wrestling
Dickies Arena, Fort Worth, USA
When WWE returns to Fort Worth on 1 May this year, wrestling fans can expect a larger-than-life, Texas-sized spectacle at the Dickies Arena as battles are won and champions are crowned. For an experience that matches the extravagant in-ring action, WWE offers the Ringsider Package, which, priced at USD $693, includes ringside seats and an exclusive bundle of merchandise and souvenirs. Alternatively, for those on a budget, tickets on the 200 Level offer elevated views and great value at $29. The Royal Rumble might be months away, but in May, WWE’s kings and queens of the squared-circle are sure to show their class in Fort Worth.
International Crown (4-7 May 2023), Golf
TPC Harding Park, San Francisco, USA
What event could be more fit for a king than the International Crown? This biennial competition pits 8 international teams – comprised of 4 players apiece – against one another in a thrilling World Cup-esque match-play event. The nations are separated into 2 pools where they will compete in a round robin before advancing to semifinals and a final. And what better way to enjoy this event than with Inside the Ropes access? With this package, you and a guest will be able to walk the course inside the ropes alongside the LPGA Tour’s biggest stars – a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any golf fan – and you’ll also have access to the International Pavilion on-course hospitality venue too. This 2-person package costs USD $2,500, while general admission starts at $65.
QIPCO Guineas Festival (5-7 May 2023), Horse Racing
Newmarket Racecourse Rowley Mile, Newmarket, UK
Fittingly, Newmarket has connections to both Charles I and Charles II: the former was imprisoned in Newmarket, and Rowley Mile is named after the latter’s favourite horse, Old Rowley. The Guineas Festival itself includes the famous 1000 Guineas and 2000 Guineas events, 2 of the UK’s 5 Classics - the country’s oldest and most important flat races. To really treat yourself like royalty at the races, you can purchase a Chez Roux package for the Champions Gallery Restaurant for GBP £465 on 2000 Guineas Day, which includes Premier Enclosure access, a table in the restaurant with panoramic racecourse views, a Champagne reception, a 3-course meal, and afternoon tea! Meanwhile, Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure access starts at just £11.
Gold Coast Suns v Melbourne (6 May 2023), Australian Football
Heritage Bank Stadium, Gold Coast, Australia
Whilst King Charles III may have visited the Heritage Bank Stadium as part of his then-princely duties during the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the rough-and-tumble of Australian rules football is a far cry from prim and proper palace etiquette. That doesn’t mean you can’t treat your inner monarch when Melbourne visits the stadium to take on the Gold Coast Suns, however: with Lounge hospitality packages available from AUD $125 (USD $84), fans can enjoy prime-location reserved seating along the wing, premium food and drink packages, and access to an exclusive hospitality space. Alternatively, standard match tickets start from just AUD $30 (USD $20).
Firebirds v Magpies (6 May 2023), Netball
Queensland State Netball Centre, Nathan, Australia
Although the Queensland Firebirds are not enjoying the strongest start to their Suncorp Super Netball season, there is no doubt that they offer some of the most lavish gameday experiences in the league. At the Queensland State Netball Centre, the Hollywood pass promises royal treatment without charging a king’s ransom. Fans with these tickets will be seated as close to the court as possible in comfortable padded seats, and a host of extra goodies are included in the price. From complimentary courtside refreshments to commemorative Firebirds merchandise, the Hollywood package covers all the luxury bases. These tickets start at AUD $145 per person (USD $98), but more affordable alternatives elsewhere in the stadium are available from just AUD $25 (USD $17).
F1 Miami Grand Prix (5-7 May 2023), Motorsports
Miami International Autodrome, Miami, United States
Few places know luxury better than Miami. The Magic City is famous for its glittering nightlife and stunning coastline, where mega-yachts regularly play among the dolphins. The Miami Grand Prix is a newcomer on the Formula 1 scene, but the world’s most prestigious motorsports championship already seems right at home in Florida’s ritziest city. Fans looking for an indulgent experience might enjoy the Yacht Club Cabanas, each of which hosts 8 to 20 guests for the deluxe price of USD $64,080. The 72 Club offers an exclusive hospitality space for $8,544, with all food and drink, an in-club concierge, and luxury black car service included. If those prices are too rich for your blood, weekend tickets are available in the South Beach Grandstand from $685.
Kansas City Royals v Chicago White Sox (8, 9, 10, & 11 May 2023), Baseball
Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, USA
The Treaty of Paris officially ended the rule of monarchy in the United States in 1783, but that doesn’t mean America is a nation without Royals. In Missouri, the Kansas City Royals have been a part of MLB since 1969, winning 2 World Series in the process. Today, there is no more regal way to catch a Royals home game than with tickets to the exclusive Crown Club – a premium seating area behind home plate that also includes food, beverages, wait-service, and club access. Between 8-11 May, the Royals will take on the Chicago White Sox at Kauffman Stadium with Crown Club seats beginning at around USD $400 and standard tickets available for as little as $11.
Royal Windsor Horse Show (11-14 May 2023), Equestrian
The Home Park, Windsor, UK
Set on the Windsor Estate, this is a show that was regularly graced by the late Queen Elizabeth II, so what could be more appropriate for fans of the royals than attending the Royal Windsor Horse Show? Indeed, the event is so inherently linked with the royal family that the schedule had to be altered in 2023 so as not to clash with King Charles III’s coronation. As the UK’s largest outdoor horse show, it hosts dressage, showjumping, carriage driving, and endurance riding, as well as national classes and showing classes. Fun for all the family with plenty of additional entertainment, tickets for this illustrious event start at just GBP £27, or you can splash out on Castle Stand seating, located close to the Royal Box, for £45!
For more information on these events, including ticket prices, click the links below:
- Madrid Open (24 April – 7 May 2023), Tennis
- Manchester United v Aston Villa (30 April 2023), Football
- Monday Night Raw: Fort Worth (1 May 2023), Wrestling
- International Crown (4-7 May 2023), Golf
- QIPCO Guineas Festival (5-7 May), Horse Racing
- Gold Coast Suns v Melbourne (6 May 2023), Australian Football
- Firebirds v Magpies (6 May 2023), Netball
- F1 Miami Grand Prix (5-7 May 2023), Motorsports
- Kansas City Royals v Chicago White Sox (8, 9, 10, & 11 May 2023), Baseball
- Royal Windsor Horse Show (11-14 May), Equestrian
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