Brussels Community Groups Transform Local Sports Facilities for Everyone

Brussels inaugurated a new €8.8 million sports complex in Evere on Avenue des Anciens Combattants, adding 1,180m² and set to open to clubs and residents in mid-August 2025. The project directly supports the city's network of volunteer-led groups that run regular sessions in soccer, basketball and other activities for children and adults.

The timing aligns with broader efforts to expand access in neighborhoods where facilities have been limited. Community organisations such as the Brussels Sports Association have long operated on modest resources, offering English-language programs for ages 4-13 regardless of skill level. Groups like Brussels Gay Sports and Straffe Ketten RFC similarly rely on shared spaces to maintain inclusive leagues in badminton, volleyball, rugby and other sports.

Investment targets underserved areas

The Brussels Government launched a €43 million initiative over three years to fund new sports infrastructure in 19 municipalities, prioritizing neighborhoods lacking facilities. A separate regional sports hub planned at Quai des Armatoes near the Canal will provide 5,400m² including a multipurpose hall, climbing hall and padel courts under a €17 million budget once completed and managed by the City of Brussels. These additions build on the recent opening of Mabo Brussels's new playground and sports hall on January 15, 2026, after two years of construction to meet capacity needs in the multilingual education network.

Further along, the City of Brussels is developing a €50 million Sports Park in Heysel as part of the Neo project, expected to finish by 2030 with a hockey pitch, 400m athletics track and synthetic rugby/football pitch. The City of Brussels also maintains a downloadable Sports Guide listing clubs and venues to help residents connect with existing programs.

Next steps for participation

Residents can consult the City of Brussels Sports Guide or follow #BrusselsSports on social networks for current club listings and venue details. The new and planned spaces are intended to accommodate the ongoing activities of local volunteer organisations serving the full range of skill levels and backgrounds in the region.