Why March is the Best Month on the Sporting Calendar

The Americans call it March Madness, and with respect to our friends from across the pond, they are exactly right. Admittedly, they refer to it as that thanks to their college basketball season reaching its conclusion, but the third month of the year certainly brings the heat. And in the UK, that sentiment remains the case.

It's the time when some of the biggest and most exciting events in the sporting calendar take place. From horse racing to football, the month of March is packed with some of the most exhilarating competitions that will keep you on the edge of your seat. In this article, we're going to explore three reasons why March is undoubtedly the best month for sports fans.

Cheltenham Festival

One of the reasons we love March is because of the Cheltenham Festival. It's one of the most significant sporting events in the UK and is regarded as the horse racing Olympics. Every year, thousands of people flock to this festival to witness the best thoroughbred horses from around the world in the toughest and most exhilarating races. And even if you aren't lucky enough to make it into the packed grandstands, at least you'll be able to take advantage of all the best Cheltenham betting offers from the comfort of your own home.

UEFA Champions League - Round of 16

The UEFA Champions League is without question the most prestigious tournament in club football and in the month of March, the first round of the knockout stages gets underway. The round of 16 is where the contenders are separated from the pretenders, and every game is a must-watch, unlike the group stages. From the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich to Paris-Saint Germain and Real Madrid - the biggest clubs in the world go head-to-head, making for some thrilling nights of football.

This year, there are some heavyweight encounters. Reigning champions and favourites for glory once more this year, Manchester City, have been handed a relatively easy-looking tie against FC Copenhagen. However, the Danish champions did conquer the Blues' cross-city rivals in the group stage, eliminating Manchester United with victory at Parken Stadium. One team who doesn't have such an easy tie however are three-time victors Barcelona, who face Italian champions Napoli.

The tie of the round however looks to be Inter Milan vs Atletico Madrid. Both teams are genuine contenders this year after the Nerazzurri reached the final back in June while Atleti reached two finals back in 2014 and 2016, losing both to archrivals Real Madrid. Both outfits will fancy their chances at glory this term should they manage to make it through to the quarterfinals.

Round of 16 ties ✅#UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/N3xvSSNw1w

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) December 18, 2023

Premier League Derby Day

Matchday 29 of the 2023/24 Premier League season will take place on the weekend of March 16th, the same week as Cheltenham. And there are two heavyweight fixtures that will headline a stacked card. Last year's runners-up Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates hoping that they can stay in the title race. Current favourites for glory Liverpool will travel across Stanley Park to face Everton at Goodison. Both fixtures will have huge implications in the hunt for the trophy this season, and they promise to be must-see encounters.