On 8 August 2024, academics from around the globe met in Paris for the 11th International Sport Business Symposium. The conference, organised by Prof. Holger Preuß (Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz) in collaboration with Mathilde Foesser (Amos Sport Business School), addressed ‘The Future of the Olympic Games’. The symposium was a resounding success.
‘Games wide open’ is the joint slogan for the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games in Paris in 2024 and stands for an invitation to the whole world to come to Paris and experience new emotions together. The sustainability concept of the Games, ‘Be better, together - For the planet and the people’, emphasises the far-reaching effects of the Olympic Games on society, the economy and the environment, which extend beyond sport. The symposium focused on the ecological effects in particular.
Following the welcome address by Prof. Dr. Holger Preuß and Mathilde Foesser, the event commenced with a video message from IOC President Dr. Thomas Bach. Over the course of the day, approximately 40 presentations were delivered in three sessions by scientists and young researchers from around the globe.
A poster session and two workshops on 'Sustainability of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games' and 'Event Rights' complemented the varied programme of the symposium. There was also a panel discussion in the afternoon on 'Future of the Games and Legacy: 8 years to Brisbane'. This allowed for a lively exchange and exciting discussions.
In addition, the conference offered several highlights with keynotes from:
- Ivo Ferriani, President of the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation & member of the IOC Executive Board
- Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO’s Physical Acitivtiy Unit
- Marie Barsacq, Director of Impact and Legacy for the OCOG Paris 2024
- Richard Pound, Honorary IOC Member
- Diane de Navacelle de Coubertin, family representative of the Coubertin family
The 11th Sport Business Symposium proved to be a resounding success. The approximately 120 participants benefited from a comprehensive programme, invaluable insights into the future of the Olympic Games and a unique opportunity for valuable exchange and thought-provoking discussions.
We would like to thank U Ottawa (Canada), Griffith University (Australia), the German Olympic Academy, the International Pentathlon Union and the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions for their support of the symposium.
Special thanks also go to the entire team at Amos Business School for their invaluable assistance, dedicated support and exceptional hospitality.
Acknowledgment: This symposium was supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions [823815]
Academic Main and Hosting Partner
Full University Partners of the Symposium
Supporting Partners
