Uppsala Crowned Sweden's Best Sports City for 2026

Uppsala has been named Sweden's best sports city for 2026, marking the city's first time receiving this prestigious accolade. The announcement was made on June 28, 2026, following a unanimous decision by a 27-member jury composed of sports experts and viewers. Uppsala scored 411 points, with 27 jurors ranking it first, significantly ahead of runners-up Göteborg with 340 points and Luleå with 304 points.

The award recognizes Uppsala's outstanding achievements in both individual and team sports over the past year. Notable highlights include Armand Duplantis, who captured two world championships and set multiple world records in pole vaulting, including a jump of 6.31 meters achieved in Uppsala. Other prominent athletes from the city include Vanessa Kamga, a world championship medalist in discus, and Nathalie Björn, who won the Diamantbollen award.

Uppsala's sports teams have also excelled, with Sirius achieving its best Allsvenskan spring season in 45 years. Storvreta IBK secured its tenth SM gold, and Fyrisfjädern remained Sweden's top badminton club. The city also boasts strong representation in floorball, bandy, basketball, and women's soccer, with teams reaching playoff semifinals and top leagues.

Erik Pelling, the chairman of the municipal board, expressed pride in Uppsala's elite athletes and broad sports culture that supports everything from grassroots to international success. This distinction makes Uppsala only the ninth city to receive the title of Sweden's best sports city.