Canada Announces $755 Million Sport Funding

OTTAWA - The Canadian federal government announced $755 million in new funding for sport on Tuesday as part of its spring economic update, aiming to expand participation, support athletes and host international events.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne described the investment as the most significant in the sport system in two decades. "Canadians understand the power of sport, how it pushes us to do better and brings us together in our communities," he said during his address in Ottawa. "We saw this during the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and we see it every day on our rinks, in our sports centres, and in our school yards. A Canada for all must also be a Canada where sport is accessible for everyone."

The funding totals $755 million over the next five years, dropping to $118 million annually thereafter. It includes $660 million for national sport organizations to invest in athletes, coaches and participation programs, plus $110 million yearly after the initial period. An additional $45 million over five years, followed by $8 million annually, will go directly to athletes for training, competition and mental health supports. Another $50 million over five years...