Conclusion to the Research Handbook on Sport in Europe

The Handbook focused on the realisation that the 21st century has been marked by an increased consideration of the role of sport in European policy. Therefore, this book presents a particular view of sport in Europe that is built on current priorities that reflect policies established since the beginning of the 21st century. Specifically, the fourth EU Work Plan for Sport’s (2021–2024; EUR-Lex, 2020) priority areas and key topics inspired the content and structure of the book, with chapters devoted to each. The fourth EU Work Plan for Sport identified three priority areas, which were to protect integrity and values in sport, to develop the socio-economic and environmental dimensions of sport, and to promote participation in sport and health-enhancing physical activity. These three areas were confirmed in the fifth EU Work Plan for Sport (2024–2027; EUR-Lex, 2024). Some key topics were elaborated upon or added to the priority areas. For example, new technologies and sport were covered as an additional priority area because of technology’s growing importance – globally and in Europe – in society in general and in sport in particular. In sum, the book covered the foundations of sport in Europe and four priority areas in five parts preceded by an introduction (Chapter 1) and followed by the present conclusion. The five parts comprised 31 key topics covered in 31 chapters. The following content summarises the main contributions of the chapters and how they can inform policies, practice and future research. The chapter then concludes with the co-editors’ final remarks.