University’s Institute of Sport secures major global sports science congress for 2027
Manchester has been selected to host the prestigious European College of Sport Science (ECSS) Annual Congress in 2027, solidifying the city’s position as a global leader in sport and exercise science.
The successful bid was led by Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, a leading world-class institute dedicated to championing everything that sport can do – from strengthening communities and building a healthier society, to inspiring the next generation and pushing the limits of human performance.
The ECSS Annual Congress, a pivotal event in the sport science calendar, will showcase cutting-edge research, innovation, and best practices in the field.
The congress is expected to attract approximately 3,000 of the world’s leading sport scientists, researchers, and practitioners to Manchester in the summer of 2027, generating a £5.8 million boost to the local economy and raising the city’s profile as a leading destination for scientific events.
Manchester’s selection to host the Congress reflects its reputation as a hub where world-renowned sporting credentials meet experts at the forefront of scientific discovery, fostering a unique environment for high-performance sport and academic excellence.
The University’s Institute of Sport will play a key role in the congress, contributing a rich, engaging, and immersive academic programme and showcasing its expertise.
Tim Cable, Director of Manchester Met Institute of Sport and Manchester Conference Ambassador, said:“The Institute of Sport at Manchester Metropolitan University is extremely proud and honoured to be the academic host of ECSS 2027, a world leading Congress. Being able to bring 3,000 Sport and Exercise Science academics and practitioners into Manchester, a global city of sport, is truly exciting. We look forward to continuing our excellent partnership with Marketing Manchester and Manchester Central in delivering this iconic event.”
Janice L. Thompson, incoming President of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS) said: “The ECSS is the leading sport science community in Europe with a truly international demographic. We lead the promotion and application of world-class, multi- and interdisciplinary science in sport, exercise, physical activity and health. Manchester is the ideal location for our 2027 Congress due to its internationally renowned facilities, its global reputation as a top destination for sport, and the research and education excellence of Manchester Met’s Institute of Sport.”
The Congress was secured through a strong partnership between Manchester Met, Marketing Manchester and Manchester Central.
Victoria Braddock, Managing Director of Marketing Manchester said: “We are thrilled to welcome the ECSS Annual Congress to Manchester in 2027. This win is a result of a collaborative effort, demonstrating the strength of our city’s partnerships. Manchester’s world-class conference facilities, coupled with the academic expertise of Manchester Metropolitan University, provide the perfect environment for this globally significant event.”
Manchester Central, the city’s premier conference venue, will serve as the hub for the congress, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a welcoming environment for delegates.
Lori Hoinkes, CEO of Manchester Central, said: “We’re incredibly excited to host ECSS 2027. Welcoming high-profile global congresses such as this fill our team with pride; not just in ensuring that every delegate has an exceptional experience but knowing the valuable contribution events like this make to our city; driving both economic growth and social impact as world-leading knowledge is exchanged. We’re delighted to be the venue where this comes together.”
