The search is under way for the railway stations that most successfully bind communities together, with nominations for the World Cup of Stations 2026 opening on Monday 14 September and running until Sunday 20 September.
What organisers want to hear
The competition will celebrate stations that do more than serve as transit points: judges will be looking for places that act as community hubs, support local business, host events, provide welcoming public spaces and help people reach important destinations such as work, education and family. The initiative’s stated theme for this year is “The stations creating connections that matter”.
People are being invited to nominate the station in their area that has made a tangible difference to their lives or the lives of those around them. Organisers say the winner need not be a major transport interchange — smaller, quieter stations can be just as impactful if they deliver meaningful local benefits.
How to take part
Entries are being accepted online; the Rail Delivery Group has set up a dedicated page for nominations. The nomination window is strictly one week long, and residents, community groups and rail users are encouraged to submit short explanations of why their chosen station should be recognised.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Nomination period | 14–20 September 2026 |
| Theme | “The stations creating connections that matter” |
| Where to nominate | raildeliverygroup.com/WorldCupOfStations |
Why the contest matters
The campaign is timed against broader efforts to simplify and knit together Britain’s rail network under the banner of Great British Railways. Rail industry leaders present the contest as a way of shining a light on the social role stations play beyond moving passengers — as places that support commerce, cultural activity and community cohesion.
Dan Mann, co-chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group, framed the initiative as a platform for local stories and grassroots achievements within the rail system. He urged the public to share examples of how stations are bringing people together.
“Every station has its own story and plays a different role in bringing together people and experiences,” Dan Mann said. “This year’s World Cup of Stations is about celebrating those stories and recognising the stations that make a real difference to the people who use them.”
What communities can expect
Past editions of the World Cup of Stations have drawn attention to improvements ranging from new community rooms and arts projects to partnerships with small businesses. While this year’s organisers have not published a formal scoring rubric alongside the nomination form, they emphasise the importance of local impact, inclusivity and innovation.
- Small stations with active community engagement are encouraged to enter.
- Nominees should explain the practical ways a station benefits local people.
- The process is intended to be accessible: nominations are open to individuals and groups alike.
Recognition through the competition can bring publicity and potentially bolster local campaigns for investment or improvement, although the organisers have not said whether winners receive financial prizes or direct funding for projects.
Next steps and timing
Nominations will be gathered over the seven-day window and later assessed by the Rail Delivery Group and its partners. Further details on longlisting and judging are expected to be released after the close of nominations. For now, communities wanting to put forward a station are advised to prepare a concise account of the connections their station makes — and to submit it before the deadline on 20 September.
As the rail sector moves towards institutional change and continued discussion about the role of stations in local life, the contest offers a moment for communities to have their experiences recognised on a national stage.
