Sports Policy in Hagen – Analysis of the Budget Planning and Investments in March 2026

The Financial Foundation: The Sports Budget and the City Budget

The draft budget for 2026/2027 of the city of Hagen clearly focuses on the promotion and maintenance of sports infrastructure. A sports budget of 2.8 million euros (compared to 1.8 million euros in the previous year) shows how highly sports are prioritized in local politics. These funds are used for both consumption and investment purposes, including the renovation of existing facilities, construction of new sports venues, and financing of club support programs.

The sports budget is not only an instrument for maintaining municipal sports facilities but also a central component in supporting both grassroots and elite sports. The city of Hagen aims for broad participation across all population groups – from students to seniors – and supports both recreational and competitive sports.

Investments in the Future: New Construction and Renovations

In March 2026, several concrete investment projects were presented that are to be implemented in the coming years. A key focus is on the renovation and modernization of existing sports facilities. The renovation of the artificial turf field in Garenfeld is planned for 2026 with a budget of 350,000 euros, as well as the renovation of the artificial turf field in VoßRacker for 2027 with 360,294 euros.

Another central project is the construction of a new artificial turf field in Haspe, which is to be financed with a total of 1,000,000 euros. Of this, 148,807 euros are allocated for 2025 and 851,193 euros for 2026. Also planned is the construction of a new changing room building at the Sportpark Höing with a municipal contribution of 728,000 euros. However, the financing of this project depends on federal funding, which shows how reliant Hagen is on external funds.

In addition, the lighting in the Ischelandhalle is to be upgraded to meet the requirements for professional sports starting in 2028. With costs of 220,000 euros, this is another investment focus that meets future needs.

Sports Clubs in the Spotlight: Support and Networking

In addition to material investments in facilities and infrastructure, the support of sports clubs plays a central role in Hagen's sports policy. Every year, investment grants totaling 75,000 euros are awarded to clubs to support the modernization and expansion of club facilities. In addition, clubs receive subsidies for school sports, which strengthens the networking between clubs and schools.

The city of Hagen emphasizes that the support of sports clubs is not only financial but also includes advice and networking. This is exemplified by the work of the Sports Service Center (SZS) under the leadership of Mr. Karsten-Thilo Raab. The goal is to support clubs in the planning, implementation, and sustainability of their projects.

Outlook: What Comes After 2026?

Planning for the years after 2026 shows that the city of Hagen is thinking long-term. The renovation of the artificial turf field in Hohenlimburg (Kirchenberg) is planned for 2029 and 2030 with a budget of 1,000,000 euros. The construction of a new artificial turf field in Hohenlimburg is also to be implemented in the coming years, with 200,000 euros already allocated for 2029.

In addition, a federal funding call for swimming pools has been announced, providing up to 250 million euros. This could be an opportunity for Hagen to advance investments in this area as well, particularly in the field of club swimming.

Conclusion: Sports as an Investment in the Future

Hagen's sports policy shows how firmly sports are embedded in municipal planning. With a clear financial allocation through the sports budget, a wide range of investment projects, and the support of clubs, Hagen is promoting a sustainable and inclusive sports landscape. The planning for 2026 and beyond shows that the city is ready to invest in the future – not only in facilities, but also in people and community.