27 Jan 2014

European Commission reveals importance of sport to European economy

European Commission reveals importance of sport to European economy news article image

A memorandum from the European Commission reveals that sport, in its broadest sense, adds €294 billion in gross value to the EU economy.

The memorandum also reveals:

  • 4.5 million people in Europe are directly employed in sport – that’s 2.1% of the total EU workforce
  • twelve to 15 million international trips are made worldwide each year for the main purpose of watching sporting events
  • sport is a growth engine for the wider economy – generating value added and jobs across a range of sectors including manufacturing and services, as well as stimulating development and innovation.

For more information about the economic impact of sport in the EU visit the European Commission website.

To find out more about our European policy work visit our policy pages.

Latest News

20 Jun 2025

Alliance responds as more details announced from Government following its Spending Review

The Sport and Recreation Alliance welcomes Government’s commitment to investing in community sport, recreation and physical activity, and its recognition of the social and economic value it provides.

Read more Arrow Right
12 Jun 2025

Sport, recreation and physical activity sector calls for clear vision from Government as Spending Review signals commitment to national health and growth

The National Sector Partners Group has issued a joint statement following the announcement of the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review today.

Read more Arrow Right
10 Jun 2025

Statement from the Alliance on appointment of new Sport England CEO

Today Sport England has announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive, Simon Hayes, who will begin the role in September.

Read more Arrow Right

Become a member

Joining the Sport and Recreation Alliance is pretty simple, but worthwhile!

Register now

Our Partners

Admincontrol logoAir IT logoGateley Legal logoSport:80 logoZellar logo93FT logo