We are proud to announce the launch of an updated Athlete Performance Award (APA) framework which reinforces our commitment to supporting the UK’s high performance athletes as they pursue their sporting ambitions.
The new framework sees an increase in our investment in APAs. The APA budget has grown from £67m for the Tokyo cycle to £74m for Paris and is projected to reach £82m for Los Angeles – a 12% increase.
This new budget has allowed us to increase the value of APAs at all continuing levels, with the A grade APA for podium level athletes now worth £29,000 annually. Depending on the athlete’s personal circumstances, APA’s are usually tax free.
A comprehensive review of the existing APA framework, which sought views from athletes, coaches and other stakeholders, concluded that that the current provision remains fundamentally strong. However, in addition to the increased budget and enhanced values at each APA band, the new framework has been simplified to make it more accessible and easier to administer.
Thanks to the continued support of The National Lottery, the APA remains one of the most significant investments in elite sport, enabling athletes to train and compete at the highest level while inspiring the nation.
The APA is a contribution to an athletes living and sporting costs and forms just one element of the
athlete support package on offer for funded athletes in Olympic and Paralympic sport.
Athletes also have access to private medical cover through the Athlete Medical Scheme and the opportunity to apply for a Personal Development Award to support their personal and professional development. Additionally, our World Class Programme investment into sports supports athletes with coaching, sports science and medicine, and contributions towards their travel, accommodation and equipment costs.
The changes announced today will be available from 1 April 2025.