The shift is supported by a plan for investment of £352m into an increased number of sports (43) in the build up to the postponed Tokyo Games, through to the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.
Today’s welcome news provides certainty of funding for Olympic and Paralympic sports in the build up to the Tokyo Games, ensuring athletes can focus on their preparations, ready to make us all proud in Tokyo.
The support provided by Government and The National Lottery also allows UK Sport to look to the athletes of the future who are targeting success at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.
Progression Funding plan unveiled to support long term success
As 36 sports, more than ever before, receive World Class Programme funding, the seven Progression investments mark the start of a programme of support in the long-term medal potential of new and exciting sports. The seven sports are basketball, climbing, fencing, skateboarding, surfing, table tennis and weightlifting.
New additions to the Olympic programme, climbing, skateboarding and surfing will receive investment, along with the four other sports. Together, they will play an important role in a wider shift to take a 12-year view of success and kick-start the search for the next generation of Olympic and Paralympic champions.
New fund launched to support national squads
A new £3m fund will open next year to support sports that did not secure Progression investment with the costs of forming and fielding national squads. This will enable athletes in these sports to attend major international championships and access other events that form the critical path to the Olympic and Paralympic Games, providing a platform on which these athletes can perform, seek Games qualification and build a future case for investment.