The Balearic Islands Backs Sport to Balance the Tourism Calendar

The Balearic Government will launch a public funding call to promote sporting events on the islands during the low season, between 16 September and 31 October. The initiative seeks to diversify tourism opportunities, reduce seasonality in tourism and strengthen the link between tourism and sports on the islands.

The funding call, comprising €1.2 million to be handed out between 2025 and 2027, is aimed at organisations with a tax base in the European Union that organise events with a budget of less than €60,000. Support may cover up to 50% of the total cost of the event. Organisations linked to bookmakers or gambling houses are excluded.

The events set to receive support include well-established events such as the Galatzó Trail, the Challenge Peguera Mallorca, the Porto Colom triathlon, the Mallorca Football Cup and the Trofeo Princesa Sofía sailing competition. The indirect economic impact—accommodation, catering and transport—is one of the indicators taken into account.

The aim is twofold: to reinforce the positioning of the Balearic Islands as a sporting destination, and to encourage local clubs, athletes and federations to participate in or promote competitions with an impact. It is estimated that between 60 and 80 yearly events meet these conditions, and their survival depends largely on this public aid.