Impact of the pandemic has forced a rethink

A major shake up will see Comic Relief ditching its Sport Relief event – and holding Red Nose Day every year instead.

Previously, the grant-maker held the events on alternate years.

However, the impacts of the pandemic has forced a rethink, following what has been described as a “difficult Sport Relief in 2020”.

It still raised more than £2.3 million more than the previous Sport Relief, in 2018, but organisers admitted it struggled due to Covid restrictions, like many mass fundraising activities.

Red Nose Day has always brought in more than Sport Relief, and Comic Relief said the move to make Red Nose Day an annual event would stabilise its income and generate new opportunities to increase revenue. 

The Sports Relief brand will remain, but will now partner with major events.

Alex Botha, chief operating officer at Comic Relief, said: “For the first time in 20 years we’re changing from alternating Sport Relief and Red Nose Day campaigns to Red Nose Day becoming annual and returning every March, and Sport Relief evolving into a year-round brand from 2022. 

“Sport Relief is set to partner with major events, sports projects and sports stars, with more details set to be announced in the new year. 

“This is happening at a time where Comic Relief is focusing on fundraising and using pop culture and sport for social change all year round.”