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Have you ever explored Lithuania’s sporting passions?

It isn’t just about their history or amber!

Basketball reigns supreme in Lithuania, but there’s more to discover.

What other sports capture the hearts of Lithuanians?

Uncover the 11 most popular sports in Lithuania in our list.

Most Popular Sports in Lithuania:

  1. Basketball
  2. Soccer
  3. Rugby
  4. Baseball
  5. Cricket
  6. Ice Hockey
  7. Athletics
  8. Archery
  9. Badminton
  10. Chess
  11. Golf

#1 Basketball

Basketball
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1936
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Arvydas Sabonis (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 100,000

Basketball is undeniably Lithuania’s national passion. Its fast and dynamic nature captivates fans and players alike, making it the country’s top sport.

The Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) is the premier basketball competition, showcasing the best talent from across the nation. The country also boasts legends like Arvydas Sabonis, who has left an indelible mark on international basketball.

Lithuania’s memorable 1992 Olympics bronze medal, just after regaining independence, further solidifies the sport’s cultural significance. Basketball unites the nation and remains an unwavering source of pride.

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

#2 Soccer

Soccer
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1900s
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Edgaras Jankauskas (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 50,000

Soccer holds a special place in Lithuania’s sports scene, with passionate fans and aspiring players throughout the country.

The A Lyga is Lithuania’s top-tier soccer league, featuring strong competition and intense rivalries. Edgaras Jankauskas, a former national team striker, is among the most famous Lithuanian soccer players, thanks to his international success.

Major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship attract massive viewership, showcasing Lithuania’s enthusiasm for soccer. The sport’s popularity continues to flourish, fostering skillful players and devoted supporters.

#3 Rugby

Rugby
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1961
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Domantas Baguzis (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 3,500

Rugby has experienced a steady growth in popularity in Lithuania, with a dedicated fanbase and increasingly competitive teams.

The Lithuanian Rugby Federation organizes various tournaments, nurturing local talent and fostering the sport’s growth. Domantas Baguzis, a national team player, stands out as a prominent figure in Lithuanian rugby.

International competitions like the Rugby World Cup and European championship qualifiers draw in audiences and fans, reflecting the sport’s rising status. With continuous efforts and enthusiasm, rugby is making its mark on Lithuania’s sporting landscape.

#4 Baseball

Baseball
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1980s
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Dovydas Neverauskas (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 1,000

Baseball might not be the first sport you associate with Lithuania, but it has garnered a loyal following and inspired future generations.

The Lithuanian Baseball Championship, held annually, is the primary showcase for domestic talent. Dovydas Neverauskas, the first Lithuanian to play in Major League Baseball (MLB), has paved the way for fellow Lithuanian players.

Though not as widely followed as basketball or soccer, baseball holds its own as a unique and captivating sport, finding its niche in Lithuania’s diverse sporting culture.

#5 Cricket

Cricket
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: Early 2000s
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Tomas Vaitkevičius (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 300

Cricket may be a lesser-known sport in Lithuania, but it has slowly gained recognition and drawn interest from the country’s sports enthusiasts.

The Lithuanian Cricket Association is striving to grow and develop the sport through domestic tournaments and coaching programs. Tomas Vaitkevičius, a dedicated cricket player, has made efforts to establish the sport in Lithuania.

International cricket events, such as the ICC Cricket World Cup, are gradually becoming more popular among Lithuanians, showcasing the sport’s potential to carve a niche in the country’s diverse sporting culture.

#6 Ice Hockey

Ice Hockey
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1932
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Dainius Zubrus (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 2,500

Ice hockey holds a considerable following in Lithuania, with its fast-paced action and thrilling competitive atmosphere.

The Lithuania Ice Hockey League serves as the premier ice hockey competition in the country, featuring talented local players. Dainius Zubrus, a Lithuanian NHL veteran, has garnered international recognition and become a role model for aspiring players.

Lithuanian teams and players also participate in various international competitions, such as the IIHF World Championship, demonstrating the sport’s growing prominence. Ice hockey continues to be ingrained in Lithuania’s sports landscape, providing excitement for both players and fans.

#7 Athletics

Road Running
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1920s
  • 🌟Most Famous Athlete from Lithuania: Virgilijus Alekna (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Athletics Enthusiasts in Lithuania: 10,000

Athletics, often considered the foundation of sports, occupies an essential place in Lithuania’s sporting tradition. The country has a rich history of producing world champions, record holders, and Olympic medalists.

Virgilijus Alekna, a discus thrower and two-time Olympic gold medalist, is a prime example of Lithuania’s prowess in athletics. The country frequently participates in international athletics competitions, such as the European Athletics Championships.

Lithuania’s commitment to fostering athletics talent remains strong, with rigorous training facilities and a deep-rooted passion for the sport, contributing to its importance within the nation’s sporting identity.

#8 Archery

Archery
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1960s
  • 🌟Most Famous Archer from Lithuania: Rasa Kalesnykaite (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Archery Enthusiasts in Lithuania: 2,000

Archery, a sport that demands precision, discipline, and mental strength, has found a growing audience in Lithuania.

The Lithuanian Archery Federation works towards developing and promoting the sport, organizing local championships and coaching programs. Rasa Kalesnykaite, a talented Lithuanian archer, has represented the country on multiple international platforms, achieving success and recognition.

Major archery events, such as the World Archery Championships, are followed with interest among Lithuanian enthusiasts. Archery’s allure continues to expand in Lithuania, entwining itself within the nation’s sporting culture.

#9 Badminton

badminton
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1970s
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Akvilė Stapušaitytė (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Lithuania: 5,000

Badminton, known for its speed, agility, and precision, has gradually gained popularity in Lithuania.

The Lithuanian Badminton Federation promotes the sport by organizing national championships and offering training camps. Akvilė Stapušaitytė, a renowned Lithuanian badminton player, has made her mark on both national and international stages.

Badminton enthusiasts in Lithuania enjoy watching major tournaments like the Badminton World Championships and the Olympic Games. With growing interest and support, badminton is steadily positioning itself within Lithuania’s dynamic sports environment.

#10 Chess

Chess
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1930s
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Chess Players in Lithuania: 10,000

Chess, a sport that transcends time, has long been cherished in Lithuania for its intellectual challenge and strategic depth.

The Lithuanian Chess Federation supports the sport through various events, which encourages the growth and development of local talent. Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen, a Lithuanian Grandmaster, has achieved success in numerous international championships.

Major chess events, such as the FIDE World Chess Championship, draw considerable interest among Lithuanian chess enthusiasts. With a deep-rooted appreciation and continued dedication to chess, the sport enjoys a firm footing in Lithuania’s cultural landscape.

#11 Golf

Golf
  • 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Lithuania: 1990s
  • 🌟Most Famous Player from Lithuania: Vaidotas Žūkas (Lithuanian)
  • 🌍 Estimated Number of Golf Players in Lithuania: 2,500

Golf, though a recent addition to Lithuania’s sporting scene, has steadily grown in popularity, attracting enthusiasts to its picturesque courses.

The Lithuanian Golf Federation aims to promote the sport, organizing various championship events and nurturing emerging talent. Vaidotas Žūkas, a successful Lithuanian golfer, has made strides and inspires others to take up the sport.

Stunning golf courses such as The V Vilnius Golf Club and The European Center Golf Club serve as testament to golf’s growing prestige in the country. With an ever-increasing interest, golf’s fairways in Lithuania are set to expand even further.

FAQ

What is the most popular sport in Lithuania?

Basketball is undoubtedly the most popular sport in Lithuania, enjoying massive support and playing an essential role in the country’s cultural and sporting traditions.

What is the national sport of Lithuania?

The national sport of Lithuania is basketball, which holds a prominent position in the country’s culture and boasts a fervent following among Lithuanians.

What are the most watched sports in Lithuania?

The most watched sports in Lithuania include basketball, soccer, rugby, ice hockey, and athletics, each drawing significant attention and fan support throughout the country.

Max is a sports enthusiast who loves all kinds of ball and water sports. He founded & runs stand-up-paddling.org (#1 German Paddleboarding Blog), played competitive Badminton and Mini Golf (competed on national level in Germany), started learning ‘real’ Golf and dabbled in dozens of other sports & activities.

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