In an era marked by geopolitical shifts, digital transformation, and evolving expectations, the IF Forum 2025 will provide a vital space for reflection, connection, and shared insight. Discussions will focus on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of sport, with a programme designed to foster dialogue and practical takeaways.
Monday 27 October
15:30 - 15:40
Introduction
David Eades, Master of Ceremonies and Moderator
15:40 - 16:10
Welcome and keynote address
Kirsty Coventry, IOC President, Double Olympic Champion – Swimming
16:10 - 16:20
Welcome by Host
Emilie Moeschler, Conseillère Municipale, Ville de Lausanne
16:20 - 16:30
Opening address
Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener, President, SportAccord
16:30 - 17:00
‘View from the bridge’ – The challenges and opportunities facing IFs in this changing world
Ingmar De Vos, ASOIF President, FEI President, IOC Member
17:00 - 17:10
Prelude to Tuesday
David Eades, Master of Ceremonies and Moderator
17:00 - 19:00
Drinks reception
Tuesday 28 October
09:30 - 09:40
Welcome and opening remarks
David Eades, Master of Ceremonies and Moderator
09:40 - 10:10
Scene setter: Navigating global disruption: what sport can teach us (and must learn)
Professor Simon Chadwick, Professor of AfroEurasian Sport, Emlyon Business School
As global disruption reshapes every aspect of society, sport stands as both a mirror and a catalyst for change. The session explores the dual role sport plays in a shifting world: what it demonstrates about resilience, unity, and purpose, and what it must urgently learn to remain relevant, trusted, and future-ready.
10:10 - 11:00
Thanks to our sponsors: Commercialisation, monetisation and leadership in the age of fragmentation
Panel discussion with
- Giles Morgan, Head of Sponsorship, Howden Group Holdings
- François Vergnol, Executive Director, Commercial, Marketing, and Communications Department, FEI
- Petra Sörling, President, ITTF
Experienced and emerging leaders come together to explore how International Federations are adapting commercial and leadership strategies to stay relevant in a fragmented world. Includes insights into digital engagement, storytelling, and new approaches to monetisation.
11:00 - 11:15
IF Forum Partner presentation
11:15 - 11:45
Morning coffee break
11:45 - 12:30
Visibility vs viability: Can women’s sport deliver on its promise?
Panel discussion with
- Lombe Mwambwa, Research Director, Global Observatory for Gender Equality and Sport
- Pernille Blume, Three-Time Olympic Medallist, Swimming
- Moderated by Ana Jelusic Black, Former ski race, Communications Specialist
The spotlight on women’s sport has never been brighter, but visibility isn’t the same as sustainability. Turning attention into long-term impact requires more than momentum: it demands investment, thoughtful governance, smart media strategy, and a willingness to rethink the model. Where do IFs fit in, what can they learn from big sport sponsors to help ensure women’s sport doesn’t just rise, but holds?
12:30 - 12:45
IF Forum Partner presentation
12:45 - 14:00
Lunch break
14:00 - 14:45
Who decides: Science, sovereignty and sport
The gender conundrum… who makes the rules, who needs the rules, who wants the rules?
14:45 - 15:00
IF Forum Partner Presentation
15:00 - 15:30
Afternoon coffee break
15:30 - 16:00
The session reveal is coming soon
16:00 - 16:45
The session reveal is coming soon
16:45 - 17:15
Host of the SportAccord Convention 2026
17:00 - 17:30
The session reveal is coming soon
17:30 - 17:35
Prelude to Wednesday
David Eades, Master of Ceremonies and Moderator
