There were 1.8 million people employed in the sport sector across the European Union in 2025, according to new Eurostat data released to mark the European Week of Sport, taking place from 23 to 30 September.
The figures also highlight gender differences in sports education. In 2024, for every five male students studying sport in tertiary education, there were only two female students.
The economic importance of the sector is also reflected in the number of manufacturers of sporting goods. In 2024, 5,380 EU manufacturers produced sporting goods, generating a combined turnover of €8 billion.
The Eurostat infographic provides further data on sport in the EU, covering employment, participation and its wider economic impact.
For Portuguese companies operating in sports equipment, services, technology and related sectors, the figures highlight the scale of the European market and its economic relevance.
