Premier League return 'major opportunity' for city

Businesses in Hull have been urged to take advantage of the economic opportunities created by Hull City's return to the Premier League.

Council leader Mike Ross said the club's return was a "massive moment" for the city, highlighting the potential tourism boost from visiting supporters.

"Having your club in the top tier of English football is the sort of publicity for a place that money can't buy," he said.

Meanwhile, Hull and East Yorkshire mayor, Luke Campbell, encouraged businesses to be ambitious, while tourism leaders said it presented "a major opportunity" to promote Hull and East Yorkshire to national and international audiences.

The Tigers host Manchester United in their first top-flight home match for almost a decade on Saturday.

"There is already a real buzz around the city and I want local businesses to make the most of it," Campbell said.

"Whether you run a pub, restaurant, hotel, shop or you have a completely new idea, we are going to have thousands of visitors coming into Hull and a lot more attention on the city on matchdays. My message to businesses is be ambitious."

Meanwhile, Chris Blacksell, chair of Visit Hull and East Yorkshire, said: "Hull City's return to the Premier League is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Hull and the wider East Yorkshire region to audiences across the UK and around the world.

"We're working with local businesses and tourism partners to ensure every fan receives a warm Yorkshire welcome, from the moment they arrive at the railway station to their time exploring our hotels, restaurants, attractions and vibrant city centre."

Hull City Council said away fans arriving by train would be greeted by volunteers, who would be on hand to provide information.

Visit Hull is also launching a dedicated webpage, which includes information for football fans planning a visit to the city, encouraging them to stay longer and discover more.

Several businesses are already planning special matchday events, including fan zones and family football experiences ahead of the opening fixture.

David Hooper, managing director of Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, said: "The Premier League coming back to Hull is a real boost for Hull and the wider region because we're going to be welcoming travelling fans who would not otherwise come to East Yorkshire."

"Top level sport can boost our successful businesses in so many ways."

Earlier this year, tourism body, Visit Hull and East Yorkshire announced the visitor spend in the region had topped £1bn for the first time.

Hull was also named one of the top 25 global destinations to visit in 2026 by National Geographic in its Best of the World list, with the publication noting the city's major regeneration programme, celebrating its maritime history.

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