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Swiss professional sports asked for financial help. Now there are millions of the federal government, in the form of loans. Over the next two years, 350 million Swiss francs will be injected into sports: 200 million in soccer, 150 million in ice hockey.
Half will be there this year, the second in 2021, if the consequences of the crown crisis continue to make life difficult for professional clubs and gaming operations are only possible on a limited basis for at least twelve months. Say: As long as, for example, you have to play without a spectator.
The leagues are responsible for the loans.
“The situation is difficult for professional soccer and ice hockey leagues,” Sports Minister Viola Amherd said Wednesday afternoon. “The collapse of the two leagues would have a huge impact on promoting young talent and therefore training, as well as the media industry and other areas.”
Sport contributed 1.7 percent of the gross domestic product, 100,000 jobs were directly or indirectly related to the industry, said the Federal Counselor. “Furthermore, it is of central importance in social and health policies.” The leagues are responsible for the loans.
The loans are subject to conditions:
- The funds should not be used to cover players’ excessive wages, says Amherd. The key: Clubs applying for a loan must cut their wages by 20 percent in the next three years. “We will check that,” announces the sports minister. The leagues were committed to this.
- Leagues must in the future form a solidarity security fund for future risks. The goal: In the future, Swiss sports leagues should be able to unite six months, even if it is not possible to play. Amherd compares the measure to the capital requirements for banks after the financial crisis.
- Youth work must continue as before the crisis. Say: Rescuing the professional team and cutting the junior department shouldn’t be an option.
Amherd is convinced: “Professional sports can pay off these loans.” The first installment expires after five years, the second after ten.
Loans must also be examined for international sports associations based in Switzerland and in financial difficulties due to the crown crisis. Exceptions to this: the financially strong football associations Fifa, Uefa and the International Olympic Committee. The IOK will contribute 50 percent of the support, the cantons and the Confederation also along with 50 percent.
150 million for mass sports
There is also money for popular sports. The Federal Council will make CHF 50 million available this year, and up to 100 million in 2021. Unlike professional sports, these are A-fund-perdu contributions.
Additionally, J + S grants will also be paid in full this year, although some of the benefits cannot be provided due to the crown crisis.
