Sports for People and Planet 2026

Building on the opportunities and challenges outlined in Section 1, this report sets out three multistakeholder pathways and associated action areas to help the sports economy lower barriers to participation in a sustainable manner, while shaping a more prosperous future for both people and planet, where profitability and growth align with healthier societies and thriving natural ecosystems. Although each pathway can be advanced independently, they are presented as a progressive funnel to illustrate a transformation from the inside out. Delivering progress across these pathways will require strengthened governance and capable leadership to navigate the complexities of effective multistakeholder collaboration. If successfully implemented, the pathways will reinforce one another, fostering a resilient and inclusive sports economy that serves as a catalyst for long-term global prosperity. Sports for people and planet Catalysing purpose- driven capital flows3 Placing sport at the heart of cities2 Championing resource stewardship1The pathways to prosperity FIGURE 20 PATHWAY 1 Championing resource stewardship The continued growth and prosperity of the sports economy can be achieved only within the limits of the planet. Currently, humanity consumes natural resources at a rate 1.8 times faster than the Earth can regenerate.59 As a result, sport requires coordinated action across the public and private sectors to address its own environmental footprint through innovations in resource use, materials and circularity. This transformation not only mitigates negative impacts but also unlocks new opportunities for sustainable products, services and fan experiences. Meaningful progress will depend on collaboration among governing bodies, sporting organizations, brands, manufacturers, venue operators, fans, policy-makers and infrastructure providers. By championing resource stewardship, the sports economy can turn resource constraints into catalysts for innovation, resilience and inclusive growth. In doing so, it can strengthen competitiveness while creating long- term sustainable value. Three action areas within this pathway are: 1 Implement water stewardship to strengthen business resilience2 Scale circular business models3 Harness sporting events to pilot and scale sustainable materials and consumption modelsPATHWAY 1 Championing resource stewardship. Key action areas: –Implement water stewardship to strengthen business resilience –Scale circular business models –Harness sporting events to pilot and scale sustainable materials and consumption models PATHWAY 2 Placing sport at the heart of cities. Key action areas: –Leverage green and blue spaces as sporting assets –Design sporting infrastructure for community well-being and environmental resilience –Advance sustainable mobility PATHWAY 3 Catalysing purpose-driven capital flows. Key action areas: –Activate shared impact through strategic sponsorships –Mobilize investment partnerships across the capital ecosystem Source: World Economic Forum Sports for People and Planet 23