11 Most Popular Sports in Austria

Have you ever wondered what sports capture the heart of Austria?

It’s more than just mountainous landscapes and Mozart!

While skiing may dominate the scene, Austria excels in various sports.

But what makes Austrians’ hearts race?

Explore the top 11 most popular sports in Austria in our list.

Most Popular Sports in Austria:

1. Skiing
2. Soccer
3. Ice Hockey
4. Tennis
5. Handball
6. Basketball
7. Cycling
8. Athletics
9. Volleyball
10. Motorsports
11. Gymnastics

#1 Skiing

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Popularity Surge in Austria: 1920s
• 🌟Most Famous Skier from Austria: Marcel Hirscher (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Skiing Enthusiasts in Austria: 5 Million

Skiing is not just a sport in Austria; it’s an integral part of the nation’s culture. Austria’s picturesque Alpine region offers world-class skiing conditions, drawing in millions of enthusiasts each year.

The Austrian Ski Federation oversees national competitions and international events such as the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup. The country consistently produces top skiers, with Marcel Hirscher standing as one of the all-time greats.

Historic ski races like the Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel showcase Austria’s deep-rooted passion for skiing. With its majestic mountains and ski resorts, Austria remains at the pinnacle of the skiing world.

#2 Soccer

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: 1890s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Austria: David Alaba (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Austria: 500,000

Soccer plays a significant role in Austria’s sports culture, with passionate fans and a growing pool of talented players. The Austrian Football Bundesliga serves as the country’s top soccer league, with teams from across the nation competing for glory.

Austrians follow both domestic and international soccer events, such as the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. Star players like David Alaba put Austrian soccer on the global map.

Memorable moments like Austria’s 1978 World Cup victory over West Germany exemplify the nation’s love and dedication to soccer, solidifying its popularity and cultural importance.

For a deeper dive into Austria’s national sport and some fascinating facts about its history and significance, check out our article on Austria’s National Sport: Soccer (7 Facts).

#3 Ice Hockey

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: 1920s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Austria: Thomas Vanek (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Austria: 30,000

Ice hockey has a rich tradition and a loyal following in Austria. Thanks to ideal conditions and love for winter sports, the country has consistently nurtured and developed top talent in the sport.

The Erste Bank Eishockey Liga (EBEL) is Austria’s top professional ice hockey league, with teams from both Austria and neighboring countries. Austrian fans passionately support their local teams and follow international leagues like the NHL.

Thomas Vanek, a standout Austrian NHL star, has made a significant impact on the sport globally. With memorable moments like Austria’s strong performance in the 2018 Winter Olympics, ice hockey continues to hold its place in Austria’s sports scene.

#4 Tennis

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: Late 1800s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Austria: Dominic Thiem (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Austria: 170,000

Tennis in Austria has evolved into more than just a sport; it’s a source of national pride. With its beautiful outdoor and indoor facilities, tennis has attracted enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.

Austria hosts the prestigious ATP 500 Vienna Open, drawing top tennis stars from around the world. Dominic Thiem, one of the current leading tennis players, has propelled Austria’s tennis status with his success on the professional circuit.

Austria’s dedication to tennis development, combined with the success of its homegrown talent, ensures the sport’s continually increasing popularity and cultural significance.

#5 Handball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: 1930s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Austria: Nikola Bilyk (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Austria: 30,000

Handball captivates audiences in Austria with its high-speed action and intricate strategies. The sport has steadily grown in popularity, garnering a dedicated fan base in the country.

The Austrian Handball League serves as the nation’s elite handball competition, featuring intense clashes between the best Austrian clubs. Domestic fans also eagerly follow international events like the EHF Champions League. Austrian handball star Nikola Bilyk has made a significant impact on the sport worldwide.

Memorable moments, such as Austria’s strong performance during the 2020 European Men’s Handball Championship, showcase the sport’s vital role in the country’s athletic scene.

#6 Basketball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: 1950s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Austria: Jakob Pöltl (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Austria: 45,000

Basketball in Austria has gradually gained traction over the years, thanks to the ongoing development of local talent and an expanding fan base. The Austrian Basketball Superliga stands as the premier basketball league in the country, with teams vying for supremacy and attracting curious spectators.

Fans in Austria enjoy following international basketball leagues like the NBA, where Austrian player Jakob Pöltl has made a name for himself. Austria’s national team may not be the top contender at international events, but their passion and growth in the sport are undeniable.

With a dedicated fan base and rising talent, basketball’s popularity in Austria continues to soar.

#7 Cycling

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: Late 1800s
• 🌟Most Famous Cyclist from Austria: Georg Totschnig (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Cycling Enthusiasts in Austria: 2 Million

Cycling has a special place in Austria, both as a leisure activity and a sport. Austria’s stunning landscapes, extensive biking trails, and well-organized infrastructure make it a haven for cycling enthusiasts.

Georg Totschnig, one of Austria’s top cyclists, has showcased the country’s prowess in professional cycling. The annual Tour of Austria is a prominent cycling event that draws international attention and highlights Austria’s exceptional cycling culture.

With numerous sporting events, breathtaking scenery, and a genuine appreciation for the sport, cycling in Austria will continue to flourish.

#8 Athletics

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: Early 20th Century
• 🌟Most Famous Athlete from Austria: Stephanie Graf (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Athletics Enthusiasts in Austria: 150,000

Athletics encompasses various sporting events and plays an essential role in Austria’s sporting heritage. The nation has produced numerous talented athletes who have achieved success both domestically and internationally.

Stephanie Graf, an accomplished Austrian middle-distance runner, has set records and brought pride to the country. Athletics enthusiasts in Austria closely follow major events such as the European Athletics Championships and the Olympic Games.

Austria’s dedication to nurturing athletic talent and supporting its sports stars ensures that athletics will continue to be an important aspect of the nation’s athletic landscape.

#9 Volleyball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: 1950s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Austria: Clemens Doppler (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Austria: 40,000

Volleyball, particularly its beach variant, has gained popularity in Austria thanks to the country’s picturesque landscapes and passionate fans. Enthusiasts enjoy both indoor and outdoor versions of the sport, and it is played at amateur and professional levels.

The Austrian Volleyball Bundesliga serves as the primary domestic league, featuring exciting competition among top clubs. Beach volleyball star Clemens Doppler has made a significant impact on the sport, locally and globally.

Austria’s hosting of the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships further solidifies the sport’s growing presence in the country, attracting international attention and enthusiastic local support.

#10 Motorsports

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Popularity Surge in Austria: 1960s
• 🌟Most Famous Driver from Austria: Niki Lauda (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Motorsports Enthusiasts in Austria: 1 Million

Motorsports have captured Austrian hearts and minds with their speed, adrenaline, and fierce competition. Austria is home to iconic racing circuits like the Red Bull Ring, which hosts prestigious events such as the Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix.

Austria has produced legendary drivers, with Niki Lauda being the most notable figure in Austrian motorsports history. His accomplishments, both on and off the track, have resonated with fans worldwide.

Austrian enthusiasm for motorsports, showcased through their support for local events and international series alike, ensures that racing will maintain a high-octane presence in the country’s sports culture.

#11 Gymnastics

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Austria: Early 1900s
• 🌟Most Famous Gymnast from Austria: Jasmin Mader (Austrian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Gymnastics Enthusiasts in Austria: 20,000

Gymnastics has a long history in Austria, with the sport promoting strength, grace, and precision. Both artistic and rhythmic gymnastics have captured the imagination of fans throughout the country.

The Austrian Gymnastics Federation organizes competitions and supports the development of young talent. Austrians follow international events like the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships and the Olympics, where gymnasts like Jasmin Mader have represented the nation with pride.

Austria’s passion for gymnastics is evident through its dedication to cultivating talent and promoting the sport at all levels, ensuring its continued growth and presence in the national sports scene.

FAQ