The European Commission has published the summary report of its public consultation on the future Communication “A strategic vision for sport in Europe: reinforcing the European Sport Model”. With contributions from 211 stakeholders, including 36% of citizens, 32% of NGOs, 12% of academia and 10% of public authorities, the results confirm strong stakeholder support for the societal role of sport, particularly in public health, social cohesion and education. The European Sport Model also remains widely recognised, with 59% of respondents considering the model to be aligned with actual practices. Key priorities identified for future sport policy include governance and integrity (with 84% highlighting concerns around corruption and conflicts of interest), increased investment in grassroots sport (78%), and financial solidarity. The results also show strong support for reinforced EU action (79% considering it very important), particularly in areas such as health-enhancing physical activity, grassroots funding and governance standards. The EOC EU Office, EU-27 NOCs and partner federations have contributed to the consultation in various forms. While not legislatively binding, this Communication will be a landmark document for EU sport policy, representing the European Commission’s position for the years to come. The publication is foreseen in the Autumn of this year.
