The sports and physical activity movement unites to secure sport in EU’s Budget
Brussels, 5 May 2025 – IMBA Europe, together with more than 150 signatories from the European and international sport and physical activity ecosystem, has released a coordinated joint statement urging EU institutions to prioritise sport and physical activity in the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034.
This united call for action comes at a crucial time, as the European Union begins shaping its next long-term budget. The statement highlights the vital role sport and physical activity play in addressing societal challenges and delivering tangible economic, health, and social benefits — and urges the EU to secure dedicated funding across flagship programmes such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and EU4Health.
“At IMBA Europe, we believe that sport and physical activity — including outdoor recreation like mountain biking — play a crucial role in building healthier, more resilient and connected communities. Long-term investment in these sectors is essential not only for physical and mental well-being but also for driving sustainable tourism, rural development, and green mobility. We urge EU institutions to recognise and protect the value of sport in the next MFF, ensuring it continues to benefit all Europeans.” – Mark Torsius, General Manager
Research shows that every €1 invested in grassroot sport generates a return of €5 in broader economic and social benefits. Sport also contributes around 2.12% to the EU’s GDP and employs over 5 million people. But its full potential can only be unlocked with consistent, long-term investment and integration into EU policymaking.
The joint statement outlines five key demands:
1.Increase funding for sport and physical activity under the MFF, recognising its impact on health, social inclusion, economy, and security.
2.Preserve and expand Erasmus+ Sport, ensuring youth and grassroots projects continue to benefit from mobility and innovation funding.
3.Strengthen sport and physical activity’s role in EU4Health, integrating sport into preventive healthcare strategies to combat chronic diseases and mental health challenges.