Philipp Lahm, the director of the UEFA EURO 2024 tournament, has expressed his belief that the most significant legacy of the competition lies in its reinvestment in amateur football. As the tournament unfolds, it is increasingly evident that it has had a profound and visible impact on youth and amateur clubs across Germany. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the event have inspired children to emulate the goals they witness during matches, bringing a newfound enthusiasm for the beautiful game.
This momentum, however, extends beyond the thrill of the sport itself. What many may not realize is that the proceeds from EURO 2024 will be reinvested to support a myriad of development projects across European football. This initiative is part of the longstanding tradition of redistributing a significant portion of the net revenue from every UEFA EURO tournament. Through the UEFA HatTrick programme, which has been in place since 2004, funds are allocated to the national associations of all 55 European countries to promote the growth of football. Over the past 20 years, a staggering €2.6 billion has been distributed, contributing to over 800 projects that have amplified the development of European football.
In the case of EURO 2024, UEFA has already pledged €935 million from the net revenue of the tournament for investment in various projects across the continent. These funds have played a pivotal role in the construction of stadiums, training centers, and the enhancement of coaching, refereeing, and administrative capabilities. The EURO proceeds have also financed the UEFA Academy, which provides training and research programs in football management, leadership, administration, communication, law, and football medicine.
A notable area of focus for the tournament director, Philipp Lahm, has been the amplification of support for amateur football. Through the Philipp Lahm Foundation, a specific initiative called ‘treffpunkt fussball’ has been launched to strengthen amateur football and its community of volunteers. This program aims to facilitate networking opportunities for clubs and create closer connections with potential sponsors, ultimately fostering an environment for the sustained growth of grassroots football.
One particular project, ‘Gemeinsam Essen sehen’, has illustrated the tangible impact of this initiative. By partnering with multiple clubs, the project encourages collaborative activities that bring youth teams together to explore different areas, culminating in a football match and shared meals. Through such efforts, amateur football is positioned as an impactful conduit that introduces children and young people to the game, creating an enduring affinity for football in their lives.
As the EURO 2024 leaves a lasting imprint on European football, it serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of the sport and its enduring influence on society. The concerted effort to invest in football as a European national sport underscores the long-term objectives that are at the forefront of this initiative. While the success and appeal of major football events are undeniable, it is imperative for continuous evolution and adaptation to be embraced in order to sustain their significance.
Philanthropic contributions and institutional support, exemplified by initiatives such as the UEFA HatTrick programme, are pivotal to the continued growth and sustainability of football. By uniting under the ethos of ‘United by Football’, EURO 2024 symbolizes a championship that endeavours to encompass and inspire all. As the tournament unfolds, the commitment to nurturing this spirit and evolving the institutions that underpin football becomes increasingly vital.