Objective 3.1: Harmonious neighbourly relations through cooperation

Encouraging the daily cooperation of people living in the border region through sports activities

The project promotes cross-border cooperation through football, engaging over 390 participants in tournaments and sports events in Hungary and Serbia. With infrastructure upgrades at the LEHEL Sportcenter, it ensures lasting benefits, energy efficiency, and sustainable collaboration in grassroots sport.

Basic Data:

Acronym: SPORT WITHOUT BORDERS

Project Title: Encouraging the daily cooperation of people living in the border region through sports activities

Project ID: HUSRB/23S/31/003

Total Project budget: EUR 225 702.44

EU contribution (IPA): EUR 191 847.07

Start Date: 01 May 2024

End Date: 31 December 2025

Lead Partner: „Lehel” Football club (RS)

Other Partners: 

P1: Szent Mihály Futball Club Sportegyesület (HU)

Contact:

Email: kristina.juhas.terkelj@gmail.com

   
Project Description:

The Sport without Borders project aims to strengthen cross-border cooperation between Hungary and Serbia through inclusive football activities. Over 18 months, five tournaments and inter-sport competitions will bring together more than 390 players, coaches, and supporters of different ages, nationalities, and backgrounds. By engaging both youth and seniors, the project promotes non-discrimination, community ties, and grassroots sports culture. Events will be held in Szeged and Mužlja, with participants receiving custom-made promotional materials. To ensure sustainability and year-round training opportunities, the LEHEL Sportcenter in Mužlja will undergo major infrastructure upgrades, including solar panel installation, LED lighting, and modernized heating-cooling systems. These improvements will enhance the facility’s accessibility and energy efficiency, allowing increased joint training sessions and the hosting of future cross-border events. A five-year cooperation agreement will ensure long-term institutional commitment and use of the renovated center.

(Expected) Results:

  • Cross-border sport events and community engagement

- 4 cross-border football tournaments and 1 inter-sport competition organized in Mužlja and Szeged.
- Min. 395 people involved in cross-border sport programmes.
- 5 joint events enhancing local traditions and community participation.

  • Promotion and visibility

- Distribution of at least 610 promotional items (cups, medals, T-shirts) to participants.
- Creation of customized sport clothing to foster team identity and project visibility.

  • Infrastructure development at LEHEL Sportcenter (Mužlja)

- Installation of a photovoltaic solar panel system for renewable energy.
- Modernization of LED lighting for extended training hours and energy efficiency.
- Renovation of sportcenter facilities to improve conditions for local and international users.
- Upgrade of heating-cooling systems to ensure four-season usability.

  • Sustainability and long-term cooperation

- 5-year cooperation agreement signed between project partners.
- Continued use of the LEHEL Sportcenter for cross-border events after project closure.
- Institutional sustainability ensured by experienced sport professionals managing both partner organizations.
- Financial sustainability supported by energy-saving infrastructure investments and stable partner positions.

  • Contribution to social inclusion and values

- Engagement of youth and seniors from both countries, promoting non-discrimination and mutual respect.
- Enhanced dialogue between Hungarian and Serbian local communities through sport.