Chile's strategic sports funding: a 18-year retrospective (2006-2024)

Objective: To analyze the distribution and evolution of sports investment in Chile during the 2006-2024 period, focusing on how these resources have been allocated to different sports disciplines and regions of the country, and their impact on sports development. Method: Quantitative and descriptive study based on data provided by the National Institute of Sports of Chile. The study analyzed funding requests, and the investment received by each sport and region, using descriptive statistical techniques to identify trends over time. Both traditional and emerging sports were included, and a comparative analysis between regions was conducted. Results: The Metropolitan Region was the primary recipient of funds, concentrating a significant portion of the total investment. Soccer led the requests with a total of 2,078 applications and over 12 billion USD in investment, followed by tennis with 1,518 applications and over 11 billion USD. A notable increase in investment was observed in 2023, linked to the preparation for the Pan American Games in Santiago and the 2024 Olympics. However, other emerging disciplines showed lower participation in funding requests. Conclusion: Sports investment in Chile has shown significant growth, particularly in popular sports and in the Metropolitan Region. However, there is a need for more equitable support for less traditional disciplines and regions with less access to resources, to promote more inclusive sports development across the country.