2024: A Recap of Sporting Highlights

Now the Christmas decorations are back in the attic, only a few Bounties and country fudge remain of the chocolate selection boxes, and Jools Holland’s Hootenanny is a distant blur. It’s time to sit back and reflect on those important aspects of life… such as 2024’s sporting highlights.

The Six Nations

Warming up 2024 was the Six Nations Championship. Ireland’s bid for back-to-back Grand Slam glory was dashed by a resurgent England on the final weekend. Overall, drama abounded with upsets, near-misses, historic moments, highs, lows, and plenty of passion.

England dominated the women’s edition, claiming their sixth consecutive grand slam title. This cements their position as the team to beat in women’s rugby and as hosts for this year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Football’s Triumphs and Heartbreaks

Euro 2024, held in Germany, lived up to its billing with many late-game thrills. Despite a rollercoaster of a tournament, no England fan need be reminded how the final against Spain went.

Manchester City’s dominance continued in club football as they captured another Premier League title and reached the Champions League quarter-final, though they fell short against a resurgent Real Madrid.

A Golden Summer in the Paris Olympics

The Paris Summer Olympics brought the world together for two weeks of intense competition and incredible displays of athleticism. Team USA topped the medal table, with standout performances in athletics and swimming, while China and the host nation, France, also celebrated strong showings. Team GB secured a respectable seventh-place finish with fourteen gold medals.

Cricket on the World Stage

The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the US and West Indies, marked its debut in these regions. In a thrilling final in Barbados, India defeated South Africa by seven runs, their first T20 title since 2007. The tournament featured a record 20 teams, with the US making headlines by reaching the Super Eight and beating Pakistan.

South West’s Sporting Spirit

Closer to home, the South West celebrated its own achievements. Local football leagues brought communities together, while rugby clubs like Exeter Chiefs, Bath, and Bristol Bears’ success at home and in Europe gave fans something to cheer about. Meanwhile, Plymouth Argyle made waves in football with a stunning 1-0 FA Cup victory over Premier League Brentford.

Looking Ahead

As the curtain falls on 2024, it’s clear this has been a year to remember. With some major tournaments and the usual fixtures to look forward in 2025, it’s shaping up to be another corker. We can’t wait to see you here next year.