Sport: Commission launches the 2023 European Week of Sport focusing on involvement, inclusion and innovation

On Saturday, the Commission officially opened the ninth edition of the European Week of Sport in Valencia, Spain. Every year from 23 to 30 September, the European Week of Sport promotes more active, healthier lifestyles to millions of people in Europe and beyond. The initiative allows sport organisations, enterprises, and experts to develop their strategies for increasing participation in sport-related activities, and for participants to celebrate sport in their communities.

The priorities and special messages of the 2023 European Week of Sport will focus on involvement, inclusion and innovation. These three “I”s reflect important pillars of sport, as well as the contemporary changes and directions our societies are going towards.

Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Iliana Ivanova said: “Physical activity, be it a swim, a walk, an active lunchbreak, or some exercise at the end of the day, can make a significant contribution to our health and wellbeing. This year, in the 9th edition of the European Week of Sport, we will build on the success and work of the previous editions to ensure that our passion for sport can be passed on to even more citizens.”

Since 2015, the European Week of Sport has helped tackle inactivity by encouraging Europeans to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle. The week is an invitation for everyone to #BeActive, regardless of age, social background, or fitness level.

In 2022, the European Week of Sport offered activities, contests and challenges taking place in 40 countries. The number of events achieved a total of 32,000 events and more than 13.2 million participants all over Europe and beyond. Find here an event close to where you live, and see how you can join the #BeActive community.