A new report says Canada’s sport system faces widespread challenges, including weak governance, a lack of national leadership, and ongoing maltreatment of athletes.
The Future of Sport in Canada Commission released its preliminary report Thursday after more than a year of review and consultations across the country. The report contains 71 recommendations aimed at strengthening safe sport and reshaping how Canadian sport is led and funded.
The commission said it held more than 450 meetings, reviewed over 1,000 documents, and engaged with stakeholders nationwide.
The report is divided into two parts. The first highlights systemic issues such as misalignment among sport organizations, funding shortfalls and what it describes as an overemphasis on high-performance sport at the expense of broader participation. It calls for the creation of a centralized national sport body to provide leadership in physical activity and sport, along with new funding strategies and stronger governance.
Full Reports:
- Future of Sport in Canada Commission: Preliminary Report
- Future of Sport in Canada Commission: Provide feedback on the Preliminary Report
The second part focuses on safe sport, describing maltreatment in Canadian sport as “widespread and ongoing.” It recommends a national strategy centred on prevention, response and support, including mandatory background checks, standardized education and training, a strengthened complaints system and a public registry of sanctioned individuals.
Commissioner Lise Maisonneuve said the recommendations are intended to spark a national conversation.
“The path forward will require collaboration,” she said in a statement. “These preliminary recommendations provide the building blocks to build a robust, well-governed, and well-supported sport system, foster safe sport environments, and promote equity and inclusion across all levels of Canadian sport.”
The commission will gather feedback at a national summit in Ottawa on Sept. 8–9 and Sept. 11–12. An online consultation is also open.
A final report is expected in early 2026.