Wiesbaden, August 27th, 2024 - The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris had a significant social impact in both France and Germany. This is confirmed by the latest market research results from the global database of sports marketing agency ONE8Y, which are based on a representative survey of sports enthusiasts in both countries (n=1,027 sports enthusiasts in Germany and n=1,032 sports enthusiasts in France). The results of the study shed light on the social significance of the major sporting event and show how strongly the Olympic Games have influenced the sense of community and international understanding.

GREAT INTEREST AND FANDOM IN FRANCE AS WELL AS IN GERMANY

According to the results, French sports fans followed the 2024 Olympic Games even more closely and developed a slightly higher level of interest and fandom than the German . In France, 93% of respondents said they had a high level of interest in the Games, compared to just 82% in Germany. The French are also slightly ahead when it comes to fandom: 92% of French sports fans described themselves as fans of the Olympic Games, compared to 89% in Germany. ONE8Y CEO Hendrik Fischer comments: “The national interest in the Olympic Games was very high in both countries analyzed - the slightly higher values of the sports-interested population in France compared to the same group in Germany can be explained by the euphoria in the host country. This “host country effect” can be observed in every host nation.”

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS AND SOCIAL COHESION

It is worth noting that 62% of sports enthusiasts in France stated that the Olympic Games had exceeded their personal expectations, while 40% in Germany shared this opinion. This very positive response is also reflected in social cohesion. Two thirds of respondents in both countries felt that the Summer Olympics had strengthened social cohesion. The Games' contribution to promoting European unity is particularly noteworthy: 63% of French and 65% of Germans believe that the Olympic Games have strengthened cohesion in Europe. From a national perspective, 59% of Germans and a proud 74% of French people agree with this statement!

SPORT AS A MEDIUM FOR INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING

A key finding of the study is also the recognition of sport as the most important medium for promoting international understanding. 78% of respondents in France and 74% in Germany see sport as by far the most important contribution to promoting international understanding - far ahead of other areas such as culture, art and politics. The 2024 Olympic Games have provided strong positive social inspiration and confidence through their values of fair play, diversity and togetherness. This is also reflected in the extremely high approval ratings of respondents that “sport can inspire society positively and give confidence” (France = 77% and Germany = 76%).

INFLUENCE ON THE PARALYMPIC GAMES 2024

Another important aspect is the increased anticipation of the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Four out of five respondents from both countries who are interested in the Paralympic Games stated that their anticipation had been positively influenced by the Olympic Games. This underlines the importance of inclusive sporting events and their ability to break down social barriers. Hendrik Fischer adds: “The results of the study clearly show that the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris have had an impact on society far beyond the sporting context. They have not only increased interest and enthusiasm for sport, but have also made a significant contribution to promoting social cohesion and international understanding. This positive response shows how sporting events can act as catalysts for social change and international cooperation.”