If successful, Glasgow would be the first city to win the title twice. It would also mark 20 years since Glasgow was first named European Capital of Sport in 2003.
The announcement was made at Emirates Arena by Lord Provost Eva Bolander and David McDonald, depute leader of Glasgow City Council, who were joined by Gian Francesco Lupattelli and John Swanson, President and Vice President of European Capitals & Cities of Sports Federation.
Glasgow has invested more than £200 million in its sporting venues, attracting world-class athletes and international supporters, over the last 10 years.
Sport also adds huge value to the city’s economy contributing approximately £367m and employing around 10,000 people across the sector.
Since then, the city’s sporting reputation has grown exponentially, hosting a series of world-class sporting events at outstanding venues; including the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the first ever European Championships in 2018.
This year Glasgow will hold the 2019 European Athletics Indoor Championships and the European Short Course Swimming Championships. In 2020, the city will host the World Men’s Curling Championships and UEFA European Championship football matches.
The Lord Provost said: “Glasgow routinely punches above its weight when it comes to its sporting reputation. As one of the world’s top five sports cities, we’ve a consistent track record of using sport to overcome the health and wellbeing challenges we face by involving local communities in major sporting events.
“Our city is excited to be bidding, once again, for the title of European Capital of Sport. If successful, we’d be the first city to hold the title twice. I’m looking forward to the bidding and judging process and wish our 2023 title competitors – Italy’s Genoa and Ukraine’s Kryvyi Rhi – the best of luck.”
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