After an unforgettable summer of World Cup action, the focus now shifts back to the domestic sporting calendar. August marks the return of league football, England’s Test cricket summer continuing, Formula 1 roaring back from its summer break, and some of the biggest horse racing festivals of the year will take centre stage.
With supporters eager to get back into their local after all the international football, here’s what’s coming up this month.
Football
Football returns in a big way this August, with the start of the domestic season bringing supporters back into pubs across the UK. From the opening rounds of the Carabao Cup and the UEFA Super Cup to the return of the SPL, EFL and Premier League, there’s no shortage of live action to keep fans coming through your doors. The Community Shield also provides the traditional curtain-raiser before another exciting Premier League campaign gets underway.
Key Fixtures
- 7–9 August – Carabao Cup First Round
- 12 August – UEFA Super Cup: PSG vs Aston Villa
- 14–16 August – EFL Championship, League One & League Two return
- 16 August – FA Community Shield: Arsenal vs Manchester City
- 21–24 August – Premier League returns
Opening Weekend PL Highlights
- Arsenal vs Coventry City
- Hull City vs Manchester United
- Newcastle United vs Liverpool
- Fulham vs Chelsea
Cricket
August sees the conclusion of The Hundred before England begin an exciting three-match Test series against Pakistan. From the fast-paced action at Lord’s on Finals Day to five days of international cricket at Headingley, there are plenty of opportunities for cricket fans to gather and enjoy the action.
Key Fixtures
- Throughout early August – The Hundred
- 16 August – The Hundred Finals Day
- 19–23 August – England vs Pakistan, First Test
Formula 1
Following Formula 1’s summer shutdown, the championship returns with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. As the title race enters its crucial final months, every point becomes increasingly valuable, making this one of the most anticipated race weekends of the season.
Key Fixtures
- 21 August – Practice
- 22 August – Qualifying
- 23 August – Dutch Grand Prix
Horse Racing
August is another fantastic month for horse racing, with Ascot hosting the unique Shergar Cup before York welcomes the prestigious Sky Bet Ebor Festival. Both meetings feature top-class racing and are highlights of the British flat racing calendar.
Key Fixtures
- 8 August – Shergar Cup (Ascot)
- 19–22 August – Sky Bet Ebor Festival (York)
Whether your customers are returning for the new football season, following England’s latest Test series, enjoying Formula 1’s return or watching top-class racing from Ascot and York, August is packed with sporting occasions to help bring fans together and keep your venue busy throughout the month.