 Bermuda's sporting landscape is set for a significant financial injection following the delivery of the 2026 Budget by Premier and Minister of Finance David Burt. Speaking in the House of Assembly, the Premier unveiled a fiscal plan that prioritizes both elite athletic development and the modernization of the island's premier sporting facilities.
The Ministry of Tourism, Transport, Culture & Sport has seen its allocation rise to $109.1 million, representing a seven percent increase from the previous year. Within this envelope, the Department of Sport and Recreation receives a targeted boost of $759,000 to its operating budget. A substantial portion of this funding, some $560,000, is earmarked for the maintenance and operation of Government Golf Courses, ensuring the island's greens remain in championship condition.
Crucially, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to the island's top-tier talent, with over $2 million allocated to support national sporting bodies and elite athletes. Beyond the athletes themselves, the infrastructure they rely on is also set for a major overhaul.
The National Sports Centre has been granted $2.5 million in capital funding to address a backlog of critical improvements. The comprehensive works package includes:
Completion of long-awaited repairs to the grandstand roof.
Extensive maintenance and cleaning of the aquatic facilities.
Asphalting of the main parking area to improve accessibility.
A major upgrade to the North Field lighting system, enhancing the venue's capacity for evening events.
The budget also maintains its focus on grassroots development through the Camp Connect initiative. The program is set to provide approximately 4,000 summer day camp spaces, offering vital support to parents and ensuring school-age children remain active during the summer break. With this increased investment, the government aims to solidify Bermuda's position as a regional hub for sporting excellence and community engagement.
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