France Launches €20 Million High Sports Performance Research Program under France 2030
France has announced a new €20 million research program for high sports performance under the France 2030 initiative.
Key Points
- • Launch of a €20 million research program for sports performance
- • Continuation of research efforts for the Paris 2024 Olympics
- • Focus on eight priority research areas
- • First project calls expected in January 2026
On July 4, 2025, French Sports Minister Marie Barsacq announced the launch of a new research program aimed at enhancing high sports performance, as part of the France 2030 initiative. This initiative includes a substantial investment of €20 million to bolster scientific research and innovation in sports, continuing efforts initiated in 2019 in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The program is geared towards strengthening the performance of athletes leading up to the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics and the Winter Olympics in the French Alps in 2030. "We aim to secure a top 5 finish for France in both Olympic and Paralympic competitions," said Barsacq, emphasizing the government's commitment to scientific support for athletes.
Eight key research areas will guide this initiative, as outlined by Barsacq and Higher Education and Research Minister Philippe Baptiste. The ministers plan to issue a mission letter to the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) in September 2025 and will task the National Research Agency (ANR) to oversee the management of various project calls, with the first expected to open in January 2026.
The initiative aims to improve collaboration among research institutions, sports federations, and industry partners, positioning France as a critical player in global sports innovation. By consolidating its scientific excellence, the government is looking to support athletes more effectively through advanced research and development efforts.