Major sporting events in Guangzhou - from world-class marathons to international tournaments. Complete guide with past results and future outlook.
IAAF Gold Label certified marathon held annually in December. The flat, fast riverside course along the Pearl River is ideal for personal bests. Passes Canton Tower, Haizhu Bridge, and the riverfront. One of southern China's premier marathons.
Full name: Guangzhou International Marathon (广州马拉松)
CBA team at Tianhe Sports Centre. Regular season October to April. Known for competitive games against rival teams from Shenzhen and Foshan.
Full name: Guangzhou Loong Lions (广州龙狮)
Football tournament held during the China Import and Export Fair sessions. Amateur and youth teams compete at local stadiums. Popular with the international business community attending the Canton Fair.
Full name: Canton Fair Sports Tournament (广交会足球赛)
Open water swimming event crossing sections of the Pearl River Delta. International swimmers compete in one of China's most challenging open water courses. Usually October.
Full name: Pearl River Delta Open Water Championship
Former two-time Asian Champions League winners - the club continues youth academies and exhibition matches. The state-of-the-art天河体育中心 training facilities host youth development programs.
Full name: Guangzhou FC (广州足球俱乐部)
Evening half marathon with Canton Tower and Pearl River illuminated views as backdrop. Unique urban night race attracting local and international runners. Popular for its festival atmosphere.
Full name: Canton Tower Night Half Marathon (广州塔夜跑)
Looking back at recent years and what to expect in 2026-2027
Guangzhou Marathon 2026 was the largest edition with 30,000 runners. The Pearl River open water event attracted swimmers from 20 countries. Guangzhou Loong Lions had their best CBA season in 2024-2026, reaching the playoffs.
Guangzhou Marathon 2026 will maintain its December date with increased international runner quota. The Canton Fair continues to generate sports events during its bi-annual sessions. New sports venues are under construction in Nansha area.
Guangzhou is developing Nansha as a new sports hub. The city is bidding for additional international events including World Athletics Cross Country Championships. The Pearl River Delta sports calendar continues to expand with cross-city events.
Our licensed English-speaking Guangzhou guides can help you attend major sporting events, navigate venues, and combine sports with cultural tours.
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