Competition kicks off to name iconic Birmingham Games bull

Brummies are being invited to take part in a competition to name the giant bull that vowed the world at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. 

The massive sculpture, standing at 32ft, took pride of place at the opening ceremony of the games last July.

The bull was seen by many as a symbol of unity and a celebration of the diverse working-class communities, including immigrants, who have enriched Birmingham with positive and long lasting contributions over the years.

Despite being a huge hit with the people of Birmingham, with thousands of people visiting Centenary Square to see the bull when it was put on public display following the end of the games, officials said the giant sculpture would be dismantled and scrapped.

After a public outcry, and a campaign to save the bull from being destroyed, Network Rail stepped in and promised to save the much-loved sculpture and put it on permanent display at New Street Station.

Lord Peter Hendy, chair of Network Rail, said: “Much work has been going on to get the bull ready for its new home at Birmingham New Street, where it will be a towering piece of art admired by the thousands of people who use the station every day.”

Network Rail

With the unveiling due to take place this summer, Network Rail has launched a public competition to name the bull and give it an official and permanent title.

People are invited to send in their name choices over the next few weeks and the top names will be shortlisted for a public vote on Wednesday 7 June. Officials will reveal the winning name on Friday 23 June.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, is excited about the naming of the bull and looking forward to the grand unveiling of the iconic sculpture in July: “It’s brilliant news that such a treasure will soon be returned – one that so perfectly captured the spirit of the 2022 Commonwealth Games we were so fortunate to play host to.

“As well as being a delightful attraction for tourists and local people to marvel at and enjoy, the bull will always be a reminder of our success – spurring us on to even greater heights in the months and years ahead.

“I cannot wait to see it back home and I’m sure residents right across our region feel the same.”

Name suggestions for the bull can be emailed to [email protected] (top names will be shortlisted by Wednesday 7 June)