The federal advisor in charge of sports Martin Pfister was invited to Forum, on the sidelines of the kick -off of the Women’s Euro in Switzerland. He returned to the recent cuts in the sport decided by the Federal Council.
Last week, the Federal Council largely confirmed its savings plan, with in particular cuts that affect sports encouragement, the youth+sport program (J+S) or the use of sports infrastructure.
>> Read on this subject: The youth+sport program in the face of a 20% budget cut in 2026
These cuts have aroused strong reactions. “I understand the concerns very well,” says Martin Pfister in Forum. “But the Confederation must save money. We must also do them in the world of sport.”
He continues: “The question that arises today is how to reduce expenses in a targeted manner by limiting the negative impacts as much as possible. We must rethink certain areas or certain activities in order to organize them more efficiently and efficiently. The Federal Sports Office is thinking about the measures.”
Swiss Olympic concerns
The fact remains that Swiss Olympic, for example, talks about “incomprehensible” cuts, especially concerning J+S. The sporting organization draws up very negative repercussions, and recalls that sport is an engine of social cohesion and crucial element of promotion and health prevention.
>> Read on this subject: Reduction of youth aid+sport: the sports world goes up to the niche
Martin Pfister does not contradict Swiss Olympic. “It is important that we support sport, and we must better support it. But we must also follow the measures that are planned by the Confederation, so I have no choice.”
The federal adviser, however, assures that the Confederation wants to continue to promote women’s football in Switzerland after the Euro which started on Monday in Switzerland. “The Swiss Football Association has launched measures, based on an agreement with the Confederation. For example, it is a question of improving infrastructure or setting up projects with clubs and schools to promote football.”
Interview by Valentin Emery
Version web: Antoine Schaub
