Visit Phoenix Creates Phoenix Sports & Events Commission

The city of Phoenix has announced the formation of the Phoenix Sports & Events Commission, anchored by Visit Phoenix, to work with community organizations and stakeholders to extend its reach to youth, amateur and collegiate tournaments.

Operating as a division of Visit Phoenix, the commission is set to recruit an executive director and appoint an advisory board.

“For decades, Phoenix has stood as the beacon of sports and culture, drawing enthusiasts from all corners of the globe,” said Ron Price, who president and chief executive officer of Visit Phoenix. “With the establishment of the new Sports & Events Commission, we’re set to amplify our city’s allure, solidifying Phoenix’s reputation as the unrivaled destination for all things sports and events. This commission will build on our rich history of hosting world-class events, transforming Phoenix into a one-of-one hub where the intersection of sports and culture is front and center.”

The Phoenix region has hosted the Super Bowl four times as well as the NCAA Men’s Final Four and World Baseball Classic. It is scheduled to host this year’s WNBA All-Star Game and the 2027 NBA All-Star Weekend and annually hosts events including the NASCAR Cup Series, WM Phoenix Open, Fiesta Bowl and Cactus League spring training.

“Phoenix is the largest city in the country without an events-focused commission,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “While we are no stranger to hosting world-class events, the commission will proactively attract a diverse roster of new sports, arts, and cultural events that will deliver meaningful economic and social outcomes to our residents and businesses.”

With more than 750,000 jobs supported by sports-related travel and 63% of markets reporting sports as the leading generator of hotel room nights, the commission will aim to create new job opportunities and support local businesses.

“Phoenix has established itself as a premier destination for hosting events and the new Sports & Events Commission will build upon that position by pursuing new business opportunities that showcase our impressive package of convention facilities, athletic fields, hotels, and performing arts venues,” said Deputy City Manager John Chan. “We look forward to working alongside Visit Phoenix and the Commission to expand on all things music, arts and culture, along with youth, amateur and collegiate events in Phoenix that support our tourism industry.”