Erasmus+ evaluation and recommendations for sport

The European Commission has released the final evaluation of Erasmus+ 2014–2020 alongside the interim evaluation of the 2021–2027 programme, confirming its strong impact and continued relevance. For the sport sector, the findings are particularly encouraging: efforts to improve inclusivity have been most effective in youth and sport, with 28% of young participants in 2023 coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. Smaller sport organisations were highlighted as key beneficiaries, gaining from new practices, stronger cooperation, and international engagement made possible through Erasmus+ projects.

Looking forward, the Commission underlines the need to broaden participation among those with fewer opportunities, reduce administrative barriers for small organisations, and strengthen investment in digital and green skills. Greater international outreach is also anticipated, with deeper cooperation planned with third countries, including EU candidates. These priorities are expected to shape the Commission’s proposals for the post-2027 Erasmus+ framework, signalling continued opportunities for the sport sector to contribute to broader EU objectives.