The German Sport Aid Foundation is specifically expanding support for pregnant athletes and top athletes with children. Both the program for pregnant women and financial support for child care will be expanded, the foundation announced.
A funding program (#comebackstronger) already supports athletes with potential who are temporarily unable to provide proof of performance due to serious injuries, illnesses, psychological stress or pregnancy. With the expanded funding, the benefits for pregnant athletes will now also be adjusted: In the future, the monthly support will be based more closely on the previous funding classification by Sporthilfe. In addition, a separate funding module for childcare will be introduced for the first time.
Mothers and fathers in elite sports can receive subsidies to be able to continue their careers after starting a family. Support includes travel and accommodation costs for children up to the age of three as well as for a carer for competitions or official training courses.
“Our aim is to provide athletes with the best possible support in all phases of life. This also includes responding to changing realities of life,” said Karin Orgeldinger, who is responsible for athlete support on the board of Sporthilfe.