Soccer Remains Spain’s Most Popular Sport, Participation Numbers Show Growth in Padel and Boxing
Spain’s sporting landscape continues to be dominated by soccer, but emerging trends reveal growing interest in other disciplines, according to the latest data from the III Barometer of Sports Habits in Spain, prepared by SPSG Consulting. While soccer maintains its position as the most practiced sport in the country, paddle tennis and boxing are experiencing notable increases in participation.
The report, released on , indicates that 22.6% of those surveyed actively participate in soccer, narrowly edging out running at 22% and paddle tennis at 18.2%. Swimming (17.6%) and walking/hiking (15.4%) round out the top five most popular activities.
The rise of paddle tennis is particularly noteworthy, climbing three positions in the SPSG Consulting ranking. This growth reflects a broader trend of increased participation in racquet sports across Europe. Boxing, meanwhile, has seen a significant surge in popularity, moving up four positions with a practice rate of 2.8%.
However, not all sports are experiencing growth. Climbing and mountaineering have seen a decline in participation, dropping three positions in the rankings. New entries into the top twenty most practiced sports include strength training, martial arts (judo and karate), and skiing.
Gender and Age Demographics Reveal Nuances in Participation
A closer look at the data reveals distinct patterns in participation based on gender and age. Soccer remains overwhelmingly popular among men, with 34.2% of male respondents identifying it as their preferred activity, compared to just 8.2% of women. The sport also resonates strongly with young adults aged 18-29, accounting for 38.1% of participants, followed by the 30-39 age group at 30.6%.
While the gap is narrowing, running also sees more male participation (23.6%) than female (20.1%). Paddle tennis shows a similar trend, with 19.1% male practitioners versus 17.1% female. However, swimming presents a contrasting picture, with women (17.8%) slightly surpassing men (17.5%) in participation. Swimming and hiking are particularly popular among older demographics, with nearly 27% of swimmers and 40.2% of hikers falling into the 60-75 age bracket.
Spectatorship Mirrors Participation Trends, with Soccer Leading the Way
The report also examined sports viewership in Spain, revealing a strong correlation between participation and fandom. Soccer is, by far, the most watched sport in the country, with 81% of respondents identifying it as a sport they regularly follow. Tennis (39%) and basketball (38%) follow as the next most popular spectator sports.
Interestingly, the report highlights a disconnect between participation and viewership in some sports. Activities like swimming, running, walking, and paddle tennis are widely practiced, but their corresponding “icon” sports – swimming, athletics – receive comparatively less attention from the general public. This trend is often disrupted during major events like the Olympic Games or World and European Championships, particularly when Spanish athletes achieve success.
Formula 1 (16%), cycling (12%), athletics (9%), and MotoGP (9%) complete the list of the most followed sports in Spain. The enduring popularity of soccer underscores its cultural significance in the country, a sentiment echoed by a local resident quoted in related reporting: “Football is more than a game; it’s a tradition!”
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Major Events and Growing Trends
The Spanish sports market is projected for continued growth, with revenue expected to reach US$****bn in ****, according to Statista Market Forecast data. This growth is fueled by increasing fan engagement, media coverage, and merchandise sales. The upcoming 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to further boost interest in soccer, particularly among younger demographics.
The increasing demand for dynamic digital content, powered by AI, as highlighted by an IBM study, is also shaping the way fans consume sports. Broadcasters and teams are adapting to these changing preferences by offering more personalized and interactive experiences.
The continued growth of paddle tennis and boxing suggests a diversifying sporting landscape in Spain. While soccer remains king, these emerging trends indicate a willingness among Spaniards to embrace new activities and challenge traditional sporting norms. The data suggests a healthy and evolving sports culture, driven by both participation and passionate fandom.
