The Biggest Sports Events Yet to Come in 2023

A Jam Packed October

October brings with it golfing action, ruby, marathons and thrilling football matches ensuring that all types of sports fans will find something to enjoy.

Golf - Alfred Dunhill Links Championship

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is set to be a spectacular affair at the iconic greens of Scotland, with Rory McIlroy returning to Europe, keen on extending his lead at the top of the DP World Tour rankings. Partnering with his father, Gerry, in the Team Championship, McIlroy aims for a victory at St Andrews, a course brimming with nostalgia for him since earning his Tour card in 2007. The Championship, a celebration of links golf, will witness world-class golfers like Danny Willett and Tyrrell Hatton, competing over legendary courses including Carnoustie and Kingsbarns. It’s not just a stage for fierce competition but a convergence of passion and camaraderie, epitomized by partnerships like Billy Horschel with Mark Noble. Dive into the thrill with mr.play, offering extensive betting markets, amplifying your excitement and chances to win big in this golfing extravaganza!

Rugby Super League Play-Offs and Grand Final

The Super League play-offs are set to be a battleground for traditional giants, likely to culminate in a fervent clash at Old Trafford. Wigan and Saints, despite their Challenge Cup semi-finals setbacks, are on formidable winning streaks, making them the teams to beat. Wigan, with eight consecutive victories, and a seemingly more complete team, are looking poised for a title after their 2018 win. St Helens, the four-time defending champions, despite a rocky campaign, have reclaimed their domineering stature, displaying the class and hard-hitting prowess that have been their hallmark. However, the journey to the Grand Final for Saints entails overcoming formidable adversaries, including a trip to Catalans Dragons, due to their third-place finish. The play-offs this year seem to be a tapestry of high stakes, formidable line-ups, and unyielding determination, with each team vying for that coveted trophy under the glaring lights of Old Trafford.

Chicago Marathon

The streets of Chicago are set to reverberate with the pounding of thousands of feet as the city hosts the 45th edition of its renowned marathon on October 8, 2023. Recognized as a Platinum Label marathon, this prestigious event is one of the six World Marathon Majors of 2023, drawing around 45,000 runners, including one who’s poised to become the marathon's millionth finisher.

The Chicago Marathon is celebrated for its flat course, conducive to fast performances and has been the stage for five marathon world records, the latest being the remarkable 2:14:04 by Brigid Kosgei in 2019. This year, high-caliber athletes like Benson Kipruto, the defending champion, and Kelvin Kiptum, the second-fastest male marathoner, are expected to compete, bringing their elite prowess to this historic race.

The women's field is equally competitive with defending champion Ruth Chepng'etich and U.S. runner Emily Sisson, who set the U.S. marathon record last year, returning to the event. In the wheelchair category, champions Marcel Hug and Susannah Scaroni are set to defend their titles, making the 2023 Chicago Marathon a spectacular showcase of endurance, speed, and unparalleled athletic mastery.

Football Euro 2024 Qualifiers

October heralds pivotal moments in the Euro 2024 Qualifiers. The 12th sees a tantalizing clash between Spain and Scotland, while Croatia and Türkiye lock horns, both promising exhilarating football. The 13th features a marquee fixture, Netherlands versus France, a duel of giants, alongside a crucial match between the Republic of Ireland and Greece. The excitement continues on the 14th, with Italy facing Malta and a keenly anticipated contest between Hungary and Serbia. These matches are a fusion of traditional titans and emerging talents, each aiming to secure their place in this prestigious tournament, and promising fans a feast of thrilling football narratives and unforgettable moments.

Formula One

October is set to be a thrilling month for Formula 1 enthusiasts, with three Grand Prix races scheduled, promising high-speed excitement and pulsating action.

Firstly, the Qatar Grand Prix is slated for October 8 at the Lusail International Circuit, where drivers will navigate 57 laps of the 5.418-kilometre track, competing under the dazzling lights in a duel of speed and strategy.

Following this, the United States Grand Prix will unfold on October 22 at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin. Racers will face 56 laps of the intricate 5.513-kilometre circuit, battling the challenging elevations and turns, vying for supremacy in the heart of Texas.

Lastly, the month concludes with the Mexico City Grand Prix on October 29. The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez will witness 71 laps of intense racing on its 4.304-kilometre circuit, where the high-altitude conditions and passionate fans will add an extra layer of exhilaration to the contest.

Each race is a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence by the teams and drivers, promising a spectacle of speed, precision, and adrenaline for Formula 1 aficionados worldwide.

Non-Stop Action in November

November may bring winter with it, but it also contains a huge number of chances to bet on sports ranging from horse racing to golf to football.

Scottish League Cup Semi Finals

November brings the heat of the Scottish League Cup to a boiling point, with semi-final clashes that promise intense football drama. Hibernian and Aberdeen will kick off the semi-finals on 4 November, a fixture pulsating with anticipation, as both teams will be fervently vying to showcase their mettle and secure a spot in the coveted final. On 5 November, Hearts will lock horns with Rangers in a face-off loaded with expectations and football fervor. Both fixtures are set to be a thrilling spectacle, as these Scottish football giants clash with unwavering determination and zeal, creating unforgettable moments and inching closer to lifting the prestigious trophy.

The Melbourne Cup

On 7th November, the world witnesses the excitement of the Melbourne Cup, the race that stops a nation. This illustrious event isn't just about the riveting races; it's a celebration adorned with fashion parades, exquisite dining, and vibrant entertainment. The main spectacle, the $8 million Lexus Melbourne Cup, is the pinnacle of horse racing, with competitors from around the globe vying for the honor. The racecourse will be a hub of elegance, with attendees dressed in extravagant attire, enjoying the lavish marquees and delectable cuisine. This year’s edition promises more than just racing thrills; it’s a complete package of entertainment, style, and unforgettable moments.

DP World Tour Championship

From November 16th to 19th, golf enthusiasts will be treated to a spectacle at the prestigious Earth Course in Dubai for the DP World Tour Championship 2023. This flagship event will see the crowning of two champions, honoring the pinnacle of golfing excellence. Attendees will immerse themselves in top-class golf and diverse entertainment, with each day celebrating unique themes, enhancing the communal spirit. This monumental event, marking the culmination of the DP World Tour calendar, is a rendezvous of passion, skill, and unforgettable moments. Secure your free tickets to witness history and be part of this illustrious gathering.

A Relaxed End to the Year in December

The end of 2023 will be fairly quiet in sporting terms. There are some important college sports games in the US and regular football leagues will continue.

King George VI Chase

Bravemansgame, trained by the distinguished Paul Nicholls, is poised to defend his King George VI Chase title on Boxing Day 2023. As a long-range 5/2 favorite, he's in the spotlight, aiming to join the elite group of multi-time winners of this prestigious steeplechase. Despite facing hurdles in 2022, Bravemansgame marked an emphatic victory and seems to be Nicholls' prime contender for a repeat bid. Shishkin emerges as a potent rival, with his comeback at the Aintree Bowl Chase positioning him as a significant threat. However, Irish contenders from Willie Mullins' stable, including Galopin Des Champs and Allaho, could potentially disrupt Bravemansgame's dominance in what promises to be a riveting race.

Embrace the Excitement with mr.play!

The diverse range of upcoming sports events presents a thrilling opportunity for sports enthusiasts to not just watch world class action, but also to explore the exciting world of sports betting. When done properly, with strategies and budgets, sports betting only increases the excitement with huge rewards up for grabs. Whether your passion lies with horse racing, football, Formula 1, or any other sport, the diverse betting markets and competitive odds here at mr.play offer something for everyone. Head over to our sportsbook now to start discover exactly what is on offer and start planning your bets.