The impact of international sports restrictions on professional and mass sports in Russian regions

Aim. This study evaluates the effects of international restrictions in professional sports on the development of professional and mass sports across Russian regions. Materials and methods. The research employs a comprehensive assessment of professional and mass sports development, utilizing data from federal statistical observations in physical education and sports across Russian federal subjects from 2008 to 2023. Results. Systemic sports restrictions introduced in 2015 have significantly influenced professional sports development in Russian regions. Regional responses demonstrate different patterns: large regions with moderate sports facility density (37 federal subjects, including Krasnodar Krai, Moscow, and Chelyabinsk oblasts) demonstrated the least adverse effects, whereas smaller regions with high facility density (12 federal subjects, such as the Republics of Altai, Kabardino-Balkaria, and Mari El) experienced the most pronounced negative impact. No significant relationship was found between professional and mass sports development under international restrictions. Conclusion. The study contributes to sports management and sports economics literature by elucidating the regional effects of international sports restrictions in Russia. The methodological framework for integrated sports development assessment is of practical importance for regional policymakers in forecasting and designing targeted measures for physical education and sports.