As the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games are approaching, Canadians are preparing to tune in, but a Western University expert says the Games influence at home is often more symbolic than lasting.
Laura Misener, director and professor in Western’s School of Kinesiology and research chair in sport and social impact, says large international sporting events hosted abroad rarely create major long-term effects for non-host countries like Canada.
Photo Credit/Western University
“There is the opportunity for what we call celebration, so bringing people together around a national identity,” Misener said, adding that Canadians often experience “a little bit of a feel good factor.”
Misener explained that while the Games can spark short-term interest in certain sports, the impact does not usually last that long.
“What the data tells us is that less than a year, it goes back to baseline levels of sport participation,” she said.
Representation at the Olympic and Paralympic Games remains especially important though when it comes to inspiring young people and families, particularly those from equity-seeking groups.
“You have to have someone on the screen that you identify with,” Misener said.
She noted that while great progress has been made in gender equity, winter sports, especially in the Paralympic Games still face gaps.
“There will be fewer women participating in Paralympic Games in the winter sports,” Misener said, pointing to limitations in certain events.
Photo Credit/FIS
Misener added that while seeing athletes with disabilities compete at a very high level is important, it does not lead to broader social change.
“Yes, that’s something to be celebrated, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it changes the lived realities of individuals in our home societies.”
As Canadians watch what’s bound to be an exciting two-plus weeks of Games in 2026, the Olympics and Paralympics will continue to offer moments of inspiration to everyone, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges surrounding inclusion and representation in sports.
