Eusebio Sacristán Foundation: inclusive sport, education, and global goals in action

The Eusebio Sacristán Foundation, based in Spain, is an exemplary case of how sport and leisure activities can be powerful tools in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By championing inclusive participation regardless of age, ability, or background the Foundation directly contributes to gender equality, justice and strong institutions, and climate action, while promoting a cohesive and fair global society.

The global goals set out by the United Nations call for inclusive education, social integration, and health-focused recreation. The Foundation's emphasis on community-driven engagement reflects these aims and provides a tangible model for world changes through grassroots effort. As climate change, social disparities, and mental health challenges rise, empowering youth and vulnerable communities through structured programmes becomes a meaningful strategy for future resilience.

From football legacy to personal resilience

Founded in 2003 by former professional footballer Eusebio Sacristán, the Foundation was established to give back to society what sport had given him: belonging, purpose, and empowerment. Since its inception, it has reached over 200,000 participants in Valladolid and surrounding areas, encouraging engagement through sport, education, and outdoor activities. Its mission to provide everyone, particularly children facing social vulnerability, with a place in a team or enriching environment continues to grow.

In December 2020, Sacristán experienced a life altering event: a serious domestic accident caused a traumatic brain injury, leaving him in a coma and requiring emergency surgery. The injury severely affected his ability to speak and perform basic tasks. His recovery demanded months of intensive rehabilitation and unwavering commitment. Against the odds, he gradually regained speech and mobility a testament to the resilience, sacrifice, and human strength that define both his personal journey and the values of his Foundation.

His story of recovery has inspired many and strengthened the Foundation’s vision: that no obstacle physical, social, or economic should prevent someone from participating fully in life.

Education and environmental awareness hand in hand

The English4All language immersion programme exemplifies the Foundation’s holistic approach. More than a linguistic initiative, it merges language learning with physical activities, team-building exercises, and environmental protection. Set in diverse natural locations like Palencia and Sierra de Gredos, the programme integrates environmental workshops focused on recycling, renewable energy, and ecological responsibility. These activities support climate action (SDG 13) while empowering young people with science-based knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Since 2015, over 6,000 pupils from 60 schools have joined these camps, illustrating the growing demand for experiential learning models that are immersive, inclusive, and sustainability-oriented. The English4All programme not only enhances educational outcomes but also strengthens social cohesion by removing linguistic, economic, and cultural barriers.

Training for diversity and long-term impact

The Foundation’s KA182 Training in Diversity initiative, funded through European programmes, prepares coaches and activity leaders to run sessions that are truly inclusive. One notable outcome is the development of Walking Football, a modified sport adapted to older adults or people with limited mobility. Launched in 2021, it exemplifies how thoughtful programme design can extend health and social benefits to broader segments of the population.

This model of inclusion aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), while reinforcing the need for strong institutions capable of delivering tailored public services. Sport becomes not merely a pastime but a structure through which social systems can be reimagined more participatory, more just, and more adaptable to diverse needs.

In addressing the interconnected challenges of inclusion, health, education, and environment, the Eusebio Sacristán Foundation demonstrates the importance of global society engagement. It stands as a local actor responding to global mandates. Such organisations are essential in the ecosystem of sustainable development, proving that change often begins at the community level and ripples outward.

Encouragingly, the Foundation’s strategies mirror global efforts by UN bodies and civil society coalitions aimed at fostering peace and justice through collaboration. By embracing a multidimensional approach that incorporates sport, language, science, and nature, the Foundation offers a roadmap for others across Europe and beyond to build integrated social programmes tied to the SDGs.

A sustainable vision for future generations

As the world continues to confront pressing sustainability challenges, the role of inclusive, locally rooted initiatives becomes increasingly vital. The Eusebio Sacristán Foundation exemplifies how sport and education, when paired with purpose and equity, can promote economic equality, social resilience, and environmental protection. These outcomes are not merely charitable goals they are prerequisites for a stable and fair society.

Sustained investment in such initiatives is necessary to meet the global goals and build a truly inclusive future. The call is clear: global collaboration, inspired leadership, and inclusive action are key to achieving meaningful progress across all SDGs.

From recovery to inclusion, from sport to sustainability Eusebio Sacristán’s legacy lives on in every child who finds a place, a voice, and a future through his Foundation.

More information: https://fundacioneusebiosacristan.es/