About Sports in Portugal

Sports in Portugal: An Overview

Portugal boasts a vibrant sports culture that plays a significant role in the social, educational, recreational, cultural, health-promoting, and economic dimensions of society. The country supports a wide range of sports activities through well-structured organisations and dedicated infrastructure, promoting both amateur and professional participation.

Key Figures in Portuguese Sport:

  • National Federations: There are 60 national sports federations in Portugal, overseeing diverse sports disciplines and fostering the development of athletes across the country.
  • Registered Athletes: In 2023, approximately 773,800 athletes were registered with these federations, highlighting the extensive engagement in sports activities nationwide.
  • Coaches and Officials: The sports ecosystem includes 26,839 registered coaches, 18,027 referees, and 29,128 managers, all contributing to the effective governance and administration of sports.
  • High-Performance Sports: The high-performance sports registry for 2023 lists 923 athletes and 111 referees, emphasising the country's commitment to excellence in competitive sports.
  • Sports Employment: The sports sector employs around 45,600 individuals (2023 data), supported by 16,441 companies (2022 data), reflecting the sector's economic impact.
  • Sports Education: Higher education in sports is robust, with 11,153 students enrolled in the 2022/23 academic year and 2,309 graduates in the 2021/22 academic year.
  • Professional Licenses: In 2023, Portugal issued 5,126 licenses for sports coaches, 650 for technical directors, and 2,025 for physical exercise technicians, ensuring a well-qualified workforce.

Governance and Promotion: Under the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, the governance of sport in Portugal involves several key bodies:

Authority for the Prevention and Combat of Violence in Sports
Portuguese Anti-Doping Authority
Directorate-General for Education (regarding school sports)
Directorate-General for Higher Education (regarding sports in higher education)
Portuguese Institute of Sports and Youth (IPDJ) (regarding sports, jointly with the Minister of Youth and Modernisation)

The Secretary of State for Sports supports the Minister by managing sports policies and overseeing relevant authorities. The National Sports Council serves as the advisory body.

Constitutional Right to Sport: According to Article 79 of the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic:

  1. Everyone has the right to physical culture and sport.
  2. It is the responsibility of the State, in collaboration with schools and sports associations and collectives, to promote, encourage, guide, and support the practice and dissemination of physical culture and sport, as well as to prevent violence in sports.

Infrastructure and Major Events: Portugal has invested significantly in sports infrastructure, supporting both local and international events. The country regularly hosts major sporting events, attracting participants and spectators from around the world, thereby boosting tourism and local economies.

Educational Integration: Sports education is integrated into the Portuguese educational system, ensuring that young people receive comprehensive training and development opportunities. This integration helps cultivate future generations of athletes and sports professionals who are well-rounded and prepared for various career paths.

Cultural and Economic Impact: Sport in Portugal is not only a source of national pride but also a critical driver of cultural cohesion and economic activity. The sector's contributions range from promoting physical health and community engagement to generating substantial economic benefits through employment and tourism.

By fostering a dynamic and inclusive sports culture, Portugal ensures that sports remain a vital part of its national identity and societal development.