Enjoyable exercise does not require infrastructure – experiences from the Sportregion 2026 forums

Eight stops, dozens of participants, countless questions, and even more creative ideas—that's how you could briefly summarize the Veszprém-Balaton European Sports Region. this is how we could briefly summarize the series of information forums on the Veszprém-Balaton European Region of Sport 2026 competition, during which interested parties could learn about the upcoming tender opportunities. The roadshow, which visited Veszprém, Balatonfüred, Ajka, Balatonfüzfü, Keszthely, Dudar, Herend, and Tapolca. Szilvia Bonyhádi, project manager for VEB 2023, recounts her experiences from the roadshow.

One of the goals of the forum series was to convey the new approach on which the Sportrégi 2026 program is based to all residents: promoting regular exercise and increasing the amount of daily physical activity among the population. It was already apparent after the first few sessions that local communities whether in villages or towns – were looking in the same direction when it came to exercise, as in many cases the questions were identical. Although they approached the topic from different angles, the problems arising from the lack of movement problems were common.

One of the program's key objectives is precisely this: to break down the stereotype that "there is nowhere to play sports."

It was particularly inspiring to experience the spirit of community cooperation in small settlements. The "Vitálpont" (Vital Point) competition category, specifically aimed at small villages, will provide an opportunity to support year-round leisure programs. Once communities became aware of this, spontaneous consultations began in many places between local sports organizations, civil society actors, and community organizers.

However, the greatest curiosity was directed toward the "Inclusion" competition theme. Although many questions arose before the forums, such as how people with disabilities or other special situations would be received, the initial reactions were positive., the initial reactions exceeded all expectations. They were received with great openness, and many recognized that inclusion does not only mean wheelchairs, but also includes people with mental disabilities, socially disadvantaged people, and even young people who have been sucked into the online world and lost their motivation.

There was also much discussion in the forums about the fact that the main objective of the program is not infrastructure development, but rather a program-based approach. Although there will be opportunities for minor equipment purchases, the emphasis is on community and social events that are truly capable of mobilizing people.

The experiences of the forums also confirmed this, as in most places, the greatest interest was in community-building and and sports initiatives.

The tenders, which will be available from December and can be submitted from January, will be organized into four major tender packages: a development package for travel centers, the Vital Point programs for small settlements, grant opportunities supporting active communities and occasional events, and inclusive projects.

Sportrégi will be launching soon, and it looks like the region is ready for public transport!