While sport still largely falls under the competence of member states, the sector remains significant in Europe, representing between 3.4% and 3.7% of GDP, accounting for around 15 million jobs. Moreover, the continent is globally recognized for its often ambitious activities in this area. While the EU acts in support of national initiatives, one of its main goals today is to strengthen the societal dimension of sport.
In the realm of sports, which still mainly falls under the member states’ competence, the European Union acts in a complementary role. In this respect, one of its main objectives is to strengthen the societal dimension of sport.
The Weight of Sport in Europe
On the European continent, the sports sector represents a considerable portion of wealth production. Studies are few, outdated, and divergent on this point, but depending on accounting methods, it’s estimated to account for between 3.4% and 3.7% of GDP, generating approximately 15 million jobs.
In terms of practices, the continent is also characterized by its diversity. While some sports are playable everywhere or in many countries, like football, basketball, tennis, or athletics, others are more specific to certain countries or regions. This is the case for skiing, which naturally is practiced more in Nordic countries or those with mountains, rugby, which is particularly popular in the British Isles, France, and Italy, or Gaelic sports, which, as the name suggests, are predominantly found in Ireland. Many of these disciplines originated on the European continent and are now part of its cultural heritage.
Moreover, many Europeans across all twenty-seven member states engage in amateur sports activities. According to the European Parliament, nearly 60% of the population is involved, and there are approximately 700,000 sports clubs in the EU.
According to a Eurobarometer survey, over 40% of Europeans engage in sports activities on a weekly basis. Even though certain sports are indispensable in all countries, both in practice and popularity, particularities remain among Europeans.
