Glasgow has launched a bid to become the European Capital of Sport in 2023.

If successful, the city could become the first to win the coveted title twice - after a successful campaign in 2003.

Lord Provost Eva Bolander and Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor David McDonald, made the announcement at the city’s Emirates Arena, joined by Gian Francesco Lupattelli and John Swanson, President and Vice President of European Capitals & Cities of Sports Federation (ACES Europe).

Glasgow was previously awarded the accolade by demonstrating its commitment to supporting grassroots level sport and ability to attract major sporting events.

In the years since, the city has boosted its sporting reputation by hosting a series of world-class sporting events at venues including the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the first ever European Championships in 2018.

This year, Glasgow will hold the 2019 European Athletics Indoor Championships and the European Short Course Swimming Championships.

In 2020, the World Men’s Curling Championships and UEFA European Championship football matches will be held in city venues.

The success is the result of an investment of more than £200m in sporting venues which have attracted world-class athletes and international supporters and spectators.

Since 2009, attendances at Glasgow Club sports facilities have increased by more than 50 per cent, with the number of junior members attending sports clubs found to have more than quadrupled.

Sport also adds huge value to the city’s economy contributing approximately £367m and employing around 10,000 people across the sector.

Last year Glasgow retained its title as the fifth best sporting city in the world according to the SportBusiness Ultimate Sports Cities awards.

The Lord Provost said: “Glasgow routinely punches above its weight when it comes to its sporting reputation. As one of the world’s top five sports cities, we’ve a consistent track record of using sport to overcome the health and wellbeing challenges we face by involving local communities in major sporting events.

“Our city is excited to be bidding, once again, for the title of European Capital of Sport. If successful, we’d be the first city to hold the title twice. I’m looking forward to the bidding and judging process and wish our 2023 title competitors - Italy’s Genoa and Ukraine’s Kryvyi Rhi – the best of luck.

Gian Francesco Lupattelli, President of ACES Europe, said: “I have fond memories of being in Glasgow during 2002 and 2003 when the City won the award in 2003 and I am delighted that Glasgow has again decided to contest the award again for 2023 on the 20th anniversary of the previous award.

“I am very much looking forward to seeing the city again and I wish Glasgow good luck with their bid in what will be a very strong competition with Genoa and Kryvyi Rhi.”