Ranking of Western Songs That Hype Up Sports Days and Athletic Festivals [2026]

Lose YourselfEminem15rank/position

Eminem – Lose Yourself

Eminem, a hip-hop MC from the United States.

His song “Lose Yourself” carries the message: “Put your all into this very moment.” That message fits perfectly with a sports day.

Eminem’s motivating rap and the track’s rhythm are recommended not only before events but also as BGM during competitions.

It’s also a well-known song in hip-hop, making it easy for many people to enjoy, which is another point in its favor.

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Yuuki

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Dance The NightDua Lipa16rank/position

Dua Lipa – Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album) [Official Music Video]

Born in London, England, Dua Lipa is one of the most talked-about millennial pop stars, working as both a singer-songwriter and a fashion model.

Released in May 2023, her track “Dance The Night” drew attention as part of the soundtrack for the film Barbie, in which she also appears.

Inspired by the disco sound of the ’80s, the song perfectly matches Lipa’s sultry vocals with a poppy, catchy melody, making it an ideal dance number—great even as background music for school sports days and athletic festivals.

Its uplifting lyrics, which depict dancing the night away while embracing one’s own radiance, are sure to resonate with young listeners.

Boy With Luv feat. HalseyBTS17rank/position

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘작은 것들을 위한 시 (Boy With Luv) (feat. Halsey)’ Official MV

BTS is a male idol group from K-pop that has become popular worldwide.

One of their signature songs, “Boy With Luv,” is an upbeat dance track that’s perfect for school sports days and athletic festivals.

Its fresh, positive sound makes it ideal as an entrance song, too.

Of course, it’s also a great number to dance to.

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Saitō Ayumu

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CHEER UPTwice18rank/position

TWICE “CHEER UP” M/V

TWICE, the most popular female K-pop artist group, boasts top-tier talent in singing, dancing, and visuals.

CHEER UP is the lead single from their second mini-album, PAGE TWO, released in 2016.

The song cutely expresses the irritation and frustration that come from romantic dilemmas, and its hit success helped TWICE become widely recognized.

With its overall poppy vibe—featuring cute vocals throughout—the track would likely hype up events like obstacle races, where flustered moments come across as humorous.

StarshipsNicki Minaj19rank/position

Nicki Minaj – Starships (Explicit) (Official Video)

The song released in February 2012 by Trinidad and Tobago–born rapper Nicki Minaj is a high-energy dance tune that celebrates the joy of feeling free at the beach.

Set to an upbeat blend of Eurodance and electropop, it delivers a positive message about the importance of having fun freely and aiming high.

Selected from the album “Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded,” the track achieved major commercial success, even earning a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.

Its exhilarating beat and uplifting melody make it perfect for energizing sports events like school field days and athletic meets.

As a rousing anthem that powerfully supports teammates striving for victory, it continues to be loved across generations.

Good TimeCarly Rae Jepsen20rank/position

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time (Official Video)

Since its release in 2012, this staple has been popular at sports days and athletic festivals across the country: Good Time, a collaboration between Carly Rae Jepsen and electropop artist Owl City.

The sparkling, effervescent synthesizer tones are perfect for the glittering, refreshing coming-of-age event that is the sports festival! The song’s theme is “having a great time.” If everyone listens to the same track and gets fired up together, you’re sure to make your sports festival an unforgettable memory for life!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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SugarMaroon 521rank/position

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

They’re famous for their cool music video full of happiness and surprises thanks to their big-hearted gesture, but above all, it’s the groove and the cool vocals on this track that make it outstanding.

Unlike the heavily embellished arrangements you often hear in Japanese hit songs, this one keeps it simple and cool with a light, effortless performance that still builds excitement.

It’s a breezy track that loosens you up and sends you into the fray with confidence.

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Murakami Shinpei

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