VisitMalta Weekender 2026 Heads To Newcastle United’s St James’ Park

The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), through its VisitMalta brand, has announced the VisitMalta Weekender 2026, a two-day football festival that will take place at Newcastle United's St James' Park on 15 and 16 August.

The event will mark the return of Newcastle United's men's and women's teams to their home ground ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Every fixture played during the weekend will compete for the VisitMalta Cup, placing Malta's tourism brand in front of one of English football's most passionate fan bases.

The opening match on Saturday 15 August will see Newcastle United face German Bundesliga side Bayer 04 Leverkusen. A Sunday double header will feature Newcastle United Women and the men's first team, with the remaining opponents due to be announced later this month.

The football festival forms part of the Malta Tourism Authority's wider international marketing strategy, which uses major sporting partnerships to promote Malta as a leading Mediterranean destination and increase its visibility across key tourism markets.

Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela said the initiative provides an important platform to showcase Malta to millions of football supporters in the United Kingdom and beyond.

He added that the partnership strengthens the country's international profile while highlighting Malta as a year round destination offering world class experiences.

MTA Chief Executive Carlo Micallef said positioning the VisitMalta brand at the centre of such a high profile sporting event allows the Authority to reach millions of supporters and inspire future travel to the islands.

Further ticket details for the VisitMalta Weekender 2026 will be announced through Newcastle United's official channels later this month.

The Malta Tourism Authority said it remains committed to strengthening Malta's global tourism brand and attracting quality visitors throughout the year.

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