2012 was all about the Olympic Games, Paralympic Games and Euro 2012. And although these tournaments will not return for four years, there are still major sporting events on in 2013...
African Cup of Nations
The African Cup of Nations kicks off on January 19th with the continent's top sides vying for glory on South African soil.
Will Didier Drogba's Ivory Coast finally become champions after so many close-calls or will 2012's surprise package Zambia cause another upset?
Confederations Cup
When this competition comes around, you know the World Cup is just around the corner.
In June World and European Champions Spain will be joined in Brazil by Japan, Mexico, Uruguay, Italy, the African Cup of Nations champions and newcomers Tahiti for this dress rehearsal for next year's World Cup.
Concacaf Gold Cup
This biennial tournament will see the top international sides from North and Central America battle it out in the United States.
Expect a final showdown between Mexico and the Americans on July 28th, with both sides facing each other in the last three finals.
Women’s European Championship
Germany will be the team to beat in Sweden when the Women's Euro 2013 kicks off in July. The Germans are looking for their sixth consecutive European title - and seventh overall.
Heineken Cup Final
The Irish provinces have an extra incentive to win the Heineken Cup this year with the final being held at the Aviva Stadium on May 18th.
It is the first time, Dublin has hosted the final since the all-French affair at the old Landsdowne Road in 2003.
Amlin Cup Final
With Connacht taking part in the Heineken Cup this season, there are no Irish provinces taking part in a tournament which culminates on Irish soil.
The European Challenge Cup final takes place at the RDS on May 17th.
Superbowl XLVII
Superbowl 47 will swagger into New Orleans at the height of Mardi Gras this February.
The half-time show is often the most-talked about part of the whole occasion and Beyonce has been tipped to perform.
Athletics World Championships
Ireland's athletes will join rivals from across the globe for the World Championships in Moscow.
Expect to see familiar names from the Olympics to be vying for more glory in August.
