LOUGHBOROUGH, UK. July 10, 2026 – With England’s Men’s Football Team preparing to face Norway in the World Cup quarter finals, new research from the Youth Sport Trust highlights the influence of Britain’s sporting stars on children’s enthusiasm for physical activity. According to parents, football continues to provide some of the strongest role models, helping inspire young people to get moving during a summer packed with major sporting events.
The research, conducted ahead of National School Sports Week, examined how sporting role models encourage children to develop lifelong healthy habits while experiencing the wider benefits of physical activity. Parents recognised that sport helps young people build confidence, resilience, teamwork, friendships and a sense of belonging. At a time when concerns about children’s activity levels continue to grow, the findings reinforce the shared responsibility of families, schools, organisations and Government in supporting healthier, more active lifestyles.
Results from the survey suggest football remains the sport with the greatest influence on young people. Parents pointed to England’s current stars as key figures motivating children throughout a summer where football has once again demonstrated its ability to bring communities, families and supporters together.
The top five British male athletes’ parents believe inspire children are:
- David Beckham
- Marcus Rashford
- Sir Mo Farah
- Harry Kane
- Anthony Joshua
The top five British female athletes are:
- Chloe Kelly
- Leah Williamson
- Jessica Ennis-Hill
- Keely Hodgkinson
- Lucy Bronze
Parents also highlighted several current England internationals, including Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, as positive influences. Whether children are watching matches with family, discussing games at school or recreating memorable goals in the playground, England’s World Cup campaign is encouraging more young people to engage with sport while bringing communities together.
The same spirit has been reflected throughout National School Sports Week, powered by Sports Direct and Everlast, where schools, families and organisations across the country have been celebrating the value of PE, play and physical activity. This year’s campaign has encouraged children to join in by providing activities linked to major sporting events, including the Men’s Football World Cup, Wimbledon, the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup and the Commonwealth Games.
Ali Oliver MBE, CEO of the Youth Sport Trust, said: “Following the Women’s Cricket Team reaching the T20 World Cup final, England’s Men’s Football Team has once again shown how sport can capture the nation’s imagination and unite people of all ages. Seeing players such as Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham competing on the world stage, and sharing those moments with family and friends, can inspire children to believe in what they can achieve.
“The impact of sport extends far beyond elite competition. Throughout National School Sports Week, we have visited schools across the country and witnessed children developing confidence, learning new skills and enjoying the sense of connection that comes from being active together.
“This incredible summer of sport provides a fantastic opportunity to inspire every child. Whether they are playing football, cricket, tennis, taking part in Commonwealth Games-themed activities or simply enjoying games with friends, sport helps young people develop resilience, confidence, friendships and skills that will benefit them throughout life.”
Sir Mo Farah, National School Sports Week champion, said: “It is an honour to be recognised by parents as someone who encourages children to be active. Sport has shaped my life by giving me confidence and showing me that hard work can open up opportunities. I have always enjoyed football, and England’s World Cup journey is another reminder of how sport can inspire communities and bring people together. National School Sports Week is about giving every child the chance to get involved, discover new activities, build confidence and enjoy being active alongside others.”
More than 2,600 schools participated in this year’s National School Sports Week, helping children work towards the UK Chief Medical Officers’ recommendation of at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Schools across the country also welcomed visits from athletes and para-athletes, who shared their experiences and demonstrated the positive impact sport can have on young people’s lives.
