Kindeswohl im Nachwuchsleistungssport

Participation by young athletes in high-performance sport has long been a fundamental component of organized sport. Yet various incidents and public debates show that, alongside opportunities, there are substantial risks to the physical and mental integrity of minor elite athletes. Drawing on current research findings, the study examines whether conditions in high-performance youth sport constitute an endangerment to the child’s welfare within the meaning of Section 1666 para. 1 of the German Civil Code. It identifies specific risks and hazards which, by virtue of the state’s constitutionally mandated guardianship function, give rise to duties to protect and to act. Concrete measures are set out and discussed.