Major sporting events must leave an inclusive legacy

From London 2012 to last month’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the UK has a strong track record of hosting major sporting events. Looking ahead to UEFA EURO 2028 and a potential North of England Olympic and Paralympic bid in the 2040s, policymakers face a crucial question. How can elite sporting success and investment deliver lasting improvements in accessibility, participation and opportunity for disabled people at grassroots level?

Major events bring investment in infrastructure, regeneration and community engagement. But for disabled people, true success is not only measured in venues, medals or visitor numbers. It is measured by whether events remove barriers and create more inclusive opportunities in every community.

Accessibility is too often treated as an enhancement rather than a fundamental requirement. To achieve greater outcomes, inclusion is better when embedded in the planning, funding and regulation of community sport.

Read more from Activity Alliance about why major sporting events must leave an inclusive legacy:

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Image credit: Activity Alliance