The European Week of Sport promotes participation in sport and physical activity, and aims to raise awareness about the numerous benefits of both.
It encourages European citizens to "#BeActive", not only during the Week, but to stay fit all year long.
Benefits of sport and physical activity
Sport and physical activity contribute to our physical and mental wellbeing.
The lack of physical activity not only has a negative impact on society and people’s health, but also results in economic costs.
In addition, sport has the potential to strengthen messages of tolerance and reinforce citizenship throughout Europe.
Promoting the role of sport as a means of social inclusion will help address ongoing challenges in European society.
Despite the growing body of research highlighting the importance of sport in maintaining our wellbeing as well as building an inclusive and economically vibrant society, levels of physical activity are currently stagnating, and even declining, in some Member States.
The European Week of Sport aims to respond to this challenge.
Who can take part
The Week is for everyone – regardless of age, background or fitness level – and helps
- individuals
- public authorities
- the sport movement
- civil society organisations
- the private sector
collaborate in the field of sport.
Events in the EU27 and beyond
This Commission-led initiative is largely decentralised, taking place across Europe.
The Week involves close collaboration with the national coordinators and many different partners who are firmly committed to supporting its goals.
The initiative structures a wide range of activities – at European, national, regional and local levels – around the themes of
- education
- workplace
- outdoors
- sport clubs
- fitness centres
The Week has expanded beyond its European beginnings, as countries and regions from the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnerships have joined the initiative.
Previous editions
2023
The ninth edition of the European Week of Sport perfectly embodied the values promoted by the European Union, offering an inclusive, innovative and engaging stage.
It saw more than 11 million participants united in more than 37,000 events held across Europe, involving 40 participating countries.
2022
The eighth edition of the European Week of Sport saw many fun, creative and inclusive events happening all over Europe and beyond.
National Coordinating Bodies and partners organised more than 32,000 events in 40 countries and regions, accumulating more than 13 million participants.
2021
The 2021 edition of the European Week of Spor was notable for organisers tapping into a deep well of creativity to encourage people to take part, with countless activities in various locations.