It is Difficult to Discuss the Construction of Large Sports Facilities – Bidny

At the press conference 'The Future of Ukrainian Sports', which took place in Kyiv on Thursday, Ukraine's Minister of Youth and Sports, Matviy Bidny, voiced serious concerns about the current state of sports infrastructure in the country. According to him, more than 850 sports facilities have been either destroyed or damaged due to Russian military aggression. This situation complicates the possibility of constructing new large sports facilities in Ukraine.

"Today, it is difficult to talk about the construction of large sports facilities because the enemy systematically targets our infrastructure... And we understand that attracting significant capital investments here is senseless given the need to support our Defense Forces," Bidny stated. His words underscore the gravity of the situation facing Ukrainian sports in the context of the ongoing war.

However, the minister emphasized that this does not mean that nothing should be done in the field of sports in Ukraine. He believes that in wartime conditions, it is crucial to develop simpler forms of sports infrastructure in the regions to ensure access to sports and active leisure for all citizens. This could include creating open sports grounds and other accessible sports facilities.

Specifically, Bidny announced plans to build five open sports grounds in the Kyiv region by the summer of 2026. These grounds will represent an important step in the development of the region's sports infrastructure, as they will provide opportunities for sports activities for both children and adults.

Moreover, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine is working on creating a network of multifunctional barrier-free sports halls, which will enable the inclusion of people with disabilities in sports activities. The first such facility is planned to be constructed this year in Boyarka, Kyiv region, marking a significant step towards ensuring accessibility to sports for all segments of the population.

It is worth noting that on April 9, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine presented a vision for creating a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates the European model of sports, education, and science, along with modern sports infrastructure. This system includes a club system, autonomy for federations, and an Olympic Lab aimed at enhancing the level of sports activities in Ukraine and integrating Ukrainian sports into the European context.