This study analyses the public financing of sport in Slovenia between 2015 and 2023, focusing on the alignment with the objectives set by the National Sports Programme (NPS) 2014– 2023. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research examines data about financing of sport from the ministry responsible for sport, local communities, the Sport Foundation, and European funds. The findings reveal a positive trend in the total volume of public funding, which averaged 0.27% of GDP, nearing the NPS target 100 € for citizen. Local communities were the primary financiers, contributing nearly three-quarters of all public funds. However, a significant discrepancy was identified between the planned and actual allocation of resources: while the NPS prioritised content-based sport programmes (target 40-45%), the majority of expenditure was consistently directed towards sports infrastructure (average 50.5%). This came at the expense of funding for youth sports and programmes aimed at quality and elite sports development. The study concludes that despite increased investment, the structure of financing did not support the strategic goals of the NPS, potentially hindering long-term talent development and public health outcomes. Recommendations are made for greater fiscal alignment with strategic documents and improved utilisation of European funds.
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