The Trickle-Down Illusion: Why Major Events Often Miss Grassroots Sport Participation Targets

Does elite sport truly inspire everyday people to get more active? In this episode, Dr Mike Duignan speaks with Dr Georgia Teare, Dr Girish Ramchandani, and Dr Luke Potwarka about their recent article, The Trickle-Down Illusion, based on UEFA Euro 2020. Using comparative data from across 11 European host nations, they critically assess the widely held belief that mega-events boost grassroots sport participation. Their findings challenge the assumption that symbolic nationalism, athlete success, or event visibility alone translate into widespread community engagement. Instead, the discussion reveals how fragmented governance, structural inequalities, and the absence of coordinated legacy strategies continue to undermine participation outcomes—especially among underrepresented groups. From pandemic disruptions to policy shortfalls, the episode unpacks why the 'trickle-down effect' remains more myth than measurable impact, and what must change if sport events are to deliver genuine social return. A vital listen for policymakers, sport managers, and future event bidders.

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