"Sport could be a driving force for tourism and social harmony on the island"

What does the Menorca Esportiva project involve?

It’s a plan to improve and create new sports facilities all over the island. We submitted it to the Balearic Government's call for proposals for sustainable tourism tax (ITS) investments and it was approved with a grant of €6.5 million euros. This is groundbreaking, because until now most of the projects funded through ITS in Menorca were related to water, the environment or culture, but not sports. This project allows us to address a clear shortage: in the last 20 years the population has grown a lot, but the sports facilities are practically the same, meaning they're under strain.

What kind of sports can be promoted?

Rather than specific sports, we’re talking about multi-purpose facilities: pavilions, halls and spaces that can offer a range of activities. We need facilities where lots of different disciplines can be practised, as demand is increasing and there’s a clear shortage.

What specific actions are planned?

In Alaior we intend to build a sports centre with a heated swimming pool, as it’s the third largest town in Menorca, but currently lacks these facilities. An outdoor pool is set to open in Sant Lluís, which is crucial, as swimming is recommended for all ages and highly beneficial for health. There are also actions focusing on energy efficiency, such as replacing the lighting at San Carles football pitch in Maó with LED lights, and the refurbishment of Es Mercadal sports centre, which suffered a roof fire years ago. This is all planned in line with sustainability standards.

How can the project help to boost off-peak tourism?

Beyond improving the wellbeing of Menorcans, these facilities can attract sports tourism in the low season. A clear example is the future athletics track in Ciutadella, expected in its second phase. Athletes from Northern Europe, where it’s difficult to train in winter, look for milder climates and suitable spaces. These conditions can be found here. This not only diversifies the economy, but also helps to extend the tourist season.

What kind of visitors do you hope to attract?

European athletes and teams that wish to train during the winter, as is already the case in Calvià, Mallorca. These facilities will also allow us to host top-tier competitions. This year, for the first time, Menorca hosted the Spanish 5,000 and 10,000 metre long-distance athletics championships at the track in Maó. About 500 people came in May, and we’ve signed up to do it again for three more years. It's a clear example of how the combination of tourism and sport is already generating economic and social benefits.

How will the use of these facilities by both residents and tourists be managed?

Local councils will be responsible for management. Each municipality should set hours aside for local schools and clubs, and offer other opening hours for private hire or visitors. It’s a model that already works elsewhere and avoids conflicts. It’s important that these facilities not only meet the current demand, but also bring social and economic benefits to the island.

Does Menorca hope to become a leading destination for sports?

That’s the goal. Menorca already hosts sporting events that attract thousands of people in the low season, such as the Trail Menorca Camí de Cavalls, the Fornells Marathon in February, and the October Trail. Lots of Mallorcans take part, which also supports inter-island tourism, and this shouldn’t be overlooked. The key is for the government to promote the facilities needed and for civil society to keep creating events. Sport could be a driving force for tourism and social harmony on the island, and I believe the figures prove this can be achieved by looking to the future.