Europe’s influence is declining

It is not only geopolitically that Europe is under pressure. The same applies in international sports politics. This is evident from the 2025 version of The Sports Political Power Index, which has just been published by, DIF, the National Olympic Committee and Sports Confederation of Denmark.

The study shows that Asia, Africa, Oceania, and both North and South America have increased their influence in international sports governing bodies, while Europe is the only continent experiencing a decline.

The index analyses the political and administrative composition of 130 global and European sports organisations and ranks countries based on their sports political influence.

The index has been published every two years since 2013, and the 2025 edition clearly shows that Europe’s influence is waning.

“The development underlines the importance of Denmark working to build new alliances beyond Europe’s borders if we are to advance our agendas on the global stage,” says Hans Natorp, President of DIF, the National Olympic Committee and Sports Confederation of Denmark.

DIF’s international strategy specifically highlights Africa, Asia, and South America as continents that are particularly relevant for Denmark to collaborate with, for example in relation to sustainability and innovation.

“Europe has historically been, and still is, overrepresented in international sports politics, but a rebalancing is underway, which we are also experiencing in Denmark. It is important that we maintain and nurture our traditional alliances in Northern Europe, but we also need to engage in dialogue with countries that do not necessarily resemble us if we are to retain influence over decisions and shape developments,” Hans Natorp emphasises.

Denmark close to status quo – Russia declines sharply

The global ranking of the index is still led by the United States, followed by Australia and France. Denmark moves up one place from 36th to 35th. However, this is far from Denmark’s best ranking, which was achieved in 2019 when the country ranked as high as 21st.

Russia has dropped 16 places compared to the 2023 edition of DIF’s Sports Political Power Index and is now ranked 31st.

“It is Europe’s significant international influence that has led to Russia being excluded from many global sports bodies. Outside Europe, there is less focus on excluding Russia. Europe’s declining influence is a contributing factor to the current development, where Russia is gradually being welcomed back into the fold.”

Hans Natorp sees the report as an important tool for dialogue.

“I invite other sports federations to explore the report and reach out to us for further insights. I hope that, in Denmark, we can use the report to initiate productive dialogues with colleagues in other federations around the world.”