Liverpool City Region has named a new team dedicated to securing major sporting events in the area.
Sport Liverpool will be led by outgoing World Netball Chief Executive Clare Briegal, who’s an existing member of the last Sport Liverpool board.
“I am honoured and thrilled to be appointed to lead the Liverpool Sport Board during its next term.
“Sport is absolutely at the heart of Liverpool – a proud and vibrant city full of culture, that embraces diversity and is always ready to provide a warm welcome to all.
“I look forward to leading the Board and working with the executives to create a shared vision of the future and bring world class sporting events to the city region. Building on the success of events such as the Vitality Netball World Cup 2019 and World Gymnastics Championship 2022, with our amazing sports venues including the ACC Arena, Aintree Racecourse, Anfield Stadium the home of Liverpool FC and the new Everton stadium in construction at Bramley Moore Dock – we will provide a wonderful environment and backdrop to showcase the very best sporting events.”
She’ll be joined by former medal-winning track and field athlete, Anyika Onoura, who’s now a critically acclaimed author and consultant.
Also on the board is sports lawyer, Catherine Forshaw; and MD of CSM Sport & Entertainment, Andy Owen, who recently led London’s successful bid to host Major League Baseball games.
Other new members are Stuart Campbell, who organised the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow in 2024 and the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool in 2022, plus Dickon White, Regional Director for The Jockey Club.
“The Sport Liverpool Board plays an important role in supporting and guiding the Council on its events strategy for the Liverpool City Region. Major sports events are ever more important for cities to give their residents the chance to watch international sport on their doorstep, to drive business for the local economy and to deliver meaningful social impact to local communities,” added Esther Britten, Head of Major Events at UK Sport.
“The build up to hosting UEFA EURO 2028 UK & Ireland will be an exciting time for the Liverpool City Region and UK Sport was delighted to support the recruitment of the new members, who will play a key part in ensuring the region benefits from this event and more.”
Existing members of the Sport Liverpool board, who will remain in post for the next 3 year term are Charlotte O’Neill, Managing Director of Manchester City Women; venue management professional Tim Banfield; Culture Liverpool’s Head of Major Sports Events Jen Falding; ACC Liverpool Commercial Director Ben Williams; London Marathon’s Head of Participation and Community Engagement Hamid Vaghefian; and College of Esports Executive Chair, Philip Wilson.
