Swiss Among Europe's Most Athletic, Study Finds; Youth Sports Funding Boosted

Swiss citizens remain among Europe's most active, with a new study placing them just behind their Finnish and Swedish counterparts in athletic engagement. The "Sport Switzerland 2026" report, released Tuesday in Bern by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, underscores the deep-rooted connection the Swiss population has with sports and the promotion of physical activity.

The study's findings are supported by the strong public reaction in June 2025 when proposed budget cuts threatened the "Youth+Sport" (J+S) program. This widespread support led the government to reverse its decision just three months later. In a notable move during a period of fiscal austerity, authorities not only reinstated but also increased funding for J+S.

The program received an additional 20 million Swiss francs for the current year and a further 28 million francs for 2026. This significant financial boost reflects the high value placed on sports participation and youth development initiatives within Switzerland.