Professional sport events

Contribution:

• Mega Sport events bring important level of investment which could have a potential contribution in Sport for All.
• Leisure and recreational Sport events may contribute to the overall atmosphere of joy and celebration of an event.
•  There is increased awareness of media on and decision-makers on the effects of hosting Sport mega events, e.g., The situation of favelas in Rio de Janeiro during.
• Legacy plans for host cities are crucial in bidding processes. A central component is Sport for All during the Games (e.g., exhibitions) and after the event (e.g., use of Sport facilities).
• Alternative Sport activities are relevant added values for sponsors.
• Mega Sport events could be a channel to disseminate core benefits of Sport as an alternative to competitiveness and elitism.

International endorsement.

Kazaan plan:                                                                                                                                                 Sport events can lead to advocacy results by stimulating social and environmental change.

UNESCO Charter:                                                                                                                                Sport events must pay due consideration to the overarching principle of sustainability, be it economic, social, environmental.

Agenda 2020 IOC:                                                                                                                                      Potential candidate cities should consider Sport, economic, social and environmental long-term planning need. The maximum use of existing facilities and using temporary and demountable venues should be promoted.

• Increased competitive focus in Sport mega events is putting away Sport for All initiatives.
• Licensing agreements may prevent other potential partners from realizing Sport activities.

Fan fests and other complimentary exhibitions “for All”

• Security is an important matter. Massive Sport events should be planned and supported by local organisers and authorities.
• The involvement of partners and sponsors is also crucial. These activities are unique win to win opportunities for both sides.
• Hallmark iconic places of the host city to celebrate festivals or other massive Sport event.
•  Combine other activities to attract more participants: music, arts, live watching.
• Not only events with physical activity are worth to consider. Other activities can also be organised: youth forums, conferences, among others.

Constructing Legacy Plans for biddings in international Sport mega events

• Involve different sector of a bid city: government, academia, third sector, athletes, schools, etc.
• Use of stadiums, arenas and other Sport facilities as well as the remnant Sport equipment should be a core element of a Legacy strategy.
• SDG #3 and #10 are valid sustainability underpinning frameworks.

Other tips

• Think of involving the host city in a wider “Active City” approach.
• Inclusive principle: Migrants, people with disabilities, gender equity, among others.
• Do not organize events during a mega Sport event without considering age-based implications.
• Either in a long season or a short intense tournament, participants may be exposed to injuries. Consider medical support.
• Additional opportunities: Participants could participate (pay an entry fee) if there is a competitive level that may fit in, e.g., a national professional.

• Russia 2018 World Cup fan fest. Click Here
• Sport component of the Tokyo 2020 Legacy Plan. Click Here
• UEFA Euro 2024 CSR Strategy. Click Here
• Euro 2020 Football for unity festival. Click Here

Paris 2024 promised to revolutionise the experience of the Olympic and Paralympic Games for the general public. (Paris 2024, Organizing Committee)

• New approach to games placed in the general public.
• Many people shared a dream that is now a reality: at the Paris 2024’s Mass Participation Marathon, amateur athletes can follow the same route as the Olympic marathon event, enabling many to run in the footsteps of outstanding athletes.
• This will be an extraordinary experience, on a unique and original route, celebrating the history and of Paris and its region.

More information:
Paris 2024 Sport for All and legacies: Click Here