The World Sports Photography Awards, sponsored by Canon, has opened entries for its 2027 competition, inviting photographers around the world to submit images capturing the emotion, drama and physicality of sport.
Germain Favre-Felix – North. (2026)
Entry is free, with submissions open across 24 sports categories. Photographers can enter up to 10 images taken between December 2025 and November 2026.
A global platform for sports photography
The awards bring together photographers working across a wide range of sports, with judging conducted by figures from sport, media, photography, branding and the wider creative industry.
The 2026 edition attracted entries from photographers in 123 countries and covered more than 60 sports. The organisers say international media coverage and support from sports organisations have contributed to the competition’s growth.
World Sports Photography Awards co-founder Simon Burton said Canon’s continued sponsorship was a natural fit for the competition.
“Canon has been the perfect partner for the World Sports Photography Awards, and there’s no name more synonymous with sports photography. Building on such a fantastic first year together, we’re thrilled to continue this relationship as we head into year two.”
He added that the 2027 competition would offer photographers an opportunity to document sporting moments across disciplines and locations around the world.
Supporting the next generation
Canon’s sponsorship also includes the Canon Emerging Talent award, which was introduced in the 2026 competition and will return in 2027.
The category is aimed at young photographers and has been adjusted for the new edition, with eligibility now open to photographers under 25.
Canon Europe product marketing senior manager, imaging, Richard Shepherd said the category is intended to give emerging photographers greater exposure as they develop their careers.
“Canon has a proud legacy of supporting professional sports photographers and helping them capture the moments that define sporting history. Following the success of the ‘Canon Emerging Talent’ award in 2026, we’re delighted to continue our support for the next generation of sports photographers in 2027.”
He added that the initiative aims to provide young photographers with a platform to showcase their work and develop their careers.
What photographers need to know
For the 2027 competition, photographers can submit up to 10 images captured between December 2025 and November 2026.
Images entered into the 2026 competition are not eligible for submission this year. The organisers have also made changes to some of the categories, which entrants are advised to review before submitting their work.
Key dates and entry details
- Entries open: 9 September 2026
- Submission deadline: 23 November 2026
- Eligibility: Up to 10 images taken between December 2025 and November 2026
- Categories: 24 sports categories
- Cost: Free
How to enter
Entries are now open to photographers worldwide. The World Sports Photography Awards is sponsored by Canon and continues to showcase sports photography across professional and emerging talent.
For the competition rules, terms and conditions and frequently asked questions, entrants can visit the World Sports Photography Awards website.
More information and entries, click here.
