Stuttgart Invests in Promoting Physical Activity and Major Events – Outlook 2026

Stuttgart as a City of Movement: Major Events, Digital Offers, and Financial Challenges

In April 2026, the city of Stuttgart once again demonstrated its active commitment to a vibrant culture of movement through the meeting of the Sports Committee. The topic of sport and physical activity is being approached both strategically and practically – from international major events to local clubs and digital initiatives. However, not only opportunities, but also financial and infrastructural challenges, play a central role.

Major Events: Red Bull Cerro Abajo as an Image Enhancer

In September 2026, Stuttgart will for the first time host Red Bull Cerro Abajo, the world's largest urban downhill mountain bike course. The course runs from Weißenburgpark to Wilhelmsplatz and is expected to attract up to 25,000 spectators. With an estimated economic impact of 5.4 million euros and a live broadcast via DAZN, YouTube, and MagentaTV, the event will not only offer sporting highlights but also significantly enhance the city's image.

Important to note: The event is part of the UCI ranking series and will include a women's category for the first time – a step toward greater equality in cycling. The global reach through partnerships with media such as Sportschau or RTL will position Stuttgart as an international cycling city.

Promoting Movement: From Communication Strategy to App

The city is also promoting physical activity on multiple levels. The communication strategy "Stuttgart moves!" aims to reach and activate different population groups – from children to seniors. In 2025, visits to the associated website increased by 52% compared to 2023. Communication is conducted through parent outreach, social media, influencers, and community work.

Another central project is "0711Moves", a digital platform designed to motivate less active population groups to become more physically active. The app or PWA offers movement points, tasks, and a community function. It is part of the KOMBINE project and is integrated into corporate sports concepts and schools. Through cooperation with doctors and sports clubs, the initiative is expected to gain broad acceptance.

Funding of Sports Facilities: Financial Challenges in Focus

While major events and digital offerings are providing new impulses, clubs are facing financial challenges. Currently, the city funds club-owned swimming pools through a subsidy model that covers 80% of the deficits. However, deficits are continuously rising – from 957,178 € (2020) to 1,649,310 € (2024). These include personnel costs (45.6%), energy and cleaning (30.2%), and building maintenance (17.25%).

The city plans to reduce subsidies in the future, close some pools, and reallocate resources. A decision on further funding is planned for 2027. At the same time, the fixed cost contributions (SKB) for clubs are increasing from January 2026, causing additional financial burdens.

Inclusivity and Equality: New Paths in Sports Policy

Stuttgart's sports policy also pursues clear goals in terms of equality and inclusivity. A pilot project named "SpORT for You" is examining gender-sensitive sports offerings and includes transgender, intersex, and non-binary individuals. The aim is to create low-threshold offerings that promote social inclusion and are physically accessible. Infrastructure goals such as well-connected, well-lit spaces and safe areas are central.

Additionally, the Volunteer Card Baden-Württemberg is accepted at municipal facilities such as the Eiswelt Stuttgart. It offers discounts for volunteers and is being further expanded by the city administration.

Conclusion: Stuttgart Builds on Movement as an Identity Marker

Stuttgart has established itself in April 2026 as a city with a multifaceted movement strategy. From international major events like the Red Bull Cerro Abajo to digital initiatives and inclusive offerings – the city is betting on movement as a key theme for health, identity, and the economy. At the same time, it is clear that the financial structure and infrastructure for clubs and facilities are crucial to sustain this vision in the long term.

The next months will show whether planned measures such as the conversion of grass to artificial turf or the extension of the naming rights of the GAZi stadium will be as successfully implemented as the movement strategy "Stuttgart moves!". For 2027 and beyond: Movement remains a central building block for the city's future.