Debate Rages in Sweden Over Streaming Children's Sports Matches

A controversy has emerged in Sweden surrounding the live streaming of youth sports events, with the government urging caution and some sports federations maintaining their broadcasts despite concerns.

Socialminister Jakob Forssmed has advocated that Swedish sports federations follow guidelines set by the Riksidrottsförbundet, which recommend against live streaming children's sports. Following these new guidelines introduced in September, several federations, including the Swedish Athletics Federation, have ceased streaming for children under 13. Others such as handball, floorball, swimming, horseback riding, and football are reviewing their policies. Forssmed expressed concern about treating children's sports like elite competitions, highlighting potential negative impacts, and emphasized the government's requirement for Riksidrottsförbundet to report on measures against selection in youth sports, promoting inclusivity in the Swedish sports model.

However, the Swedish Ice Hockey Federation has resisted these recommendations. Since 2020, it has been streaming youth hockey matches via Svensk Hockey TV and has seen significant financial growth, with revenue rising from 10.6 million kronor in 2021 to 28.4 million kronor in 2025. Christer Plars, the federation's Generalsekreterare, defends the streaming, stating it benefits clubs and boosts the sport's visibility. The broadcasts are organized as journalistic products, which lowers legal burdens related to personal data protection.

Despite financial success, concerns remain regarding children's privacy and consent when being filmed during matches. Norway recently implemented regulations banning filming minors at sports events, adding to the debate in Sweden. Plars underlined the importance of maintaining a controlled streaming environment to prevent unauthorized footage and stressed that feedback from parents and players is key to ensuring the service meets community needs.

The discussion highlights a complex balancing act between protecting children’s privacy, promoting youth sports inclusivity, and supporting financial and visibility goals for sports federations. The situation is evolving as more federations review their policies amid the government’s and Riksidrottsförbundet's recommendations.