Holyhead and Wrexham in frame for 2040 Olympic Games bid

Transport and North Wales Minister Ken Skates confirmed the Welsh Government intends to join discussions already under way among northern English mayors to stage a multi-city Games in 2040 or 2044.

The proposal would see events shared across the north of England and Wales, with Mr Skates keen for North Wales venues to play a central role.

Wrexham and Holyhead in the mix

Wrexham’s STōK Cae Ras has been highlighted as a potential football venue, while sailing events could be staged in Holyhead. Major fixtures could also take place at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.

A general aerial view of the Racecourse Ground, home of Wrexham (Image: Gemma Thomas)

“When I talk about the north, I believe it’s everything to the north and west of the M25,” Mr Skates said, placing Wrexham firmly within the proposed footprint.

For a city that has gained growing international attention in recent years, hosting Olympic fixtures would mark another major milestone.

Wrexham Mayor Councillor Tina Mannering said the prospect would be “absolutely amazing” for the city.

“How exciting would that be for us?” she said. “It would be incredible for our families and for the whole community. Wrexham is already on the world stage, this would be the cherry on the cake and our time to shine.

“It would be wonderful to see other sports celebrated here as well. It would take us to another level and, most importantly, it would inspire our children. I think that’s fantastic.”

Backing a northern bid

The move follows a letter from northern mayors to UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy urging support for a Games “anchored in the North of England”.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said it would not be right for London to host for a fourth time, while Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram described it as a chance to bring the Olympics closer to communities that feel overlooked.

The Olympic rings are formed during Opening Ceremony for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics at the San Siro in Milan, Italy. (Image: Fabrizio Carabelli)

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has also expressed interest in a future bid.

Mr Skates said he will now formally write to Ms Nandy to confirm Wales’ involvement.

Transport and economic boost

The minister linked the potential bid to planned rail improvements across North Wales, including closer cooperation with English metro mayors on projects such as Northern Powerhouse Rail and upgrades to the Welsh rail network.

He described the Games as a possible “target point” for investment, arguing that improved transport links between North Wales and northern England could unlock major economic opportunities.

Costs and legacy

Mr Skates said a shared Olympic model would be more affordable than a standalone Commonwealth Games bid, noting that the Mayor of London’s office contributed about 5% of public costs for the 2012 Summer Olympics.

With the International Olympic Committee increasingly focused on sustainability and using existing venues, Wrexham could build on facilities already in place rather than constructing new ones.

While any bid remains years away, the prospect of Olympic football at the STōK Cae Ras puts North Wales firmly in contention.

What sporting events would you like to see in the region if the plan goes ahead? Have your say in the comments.