Olympism365 Summit Launched

Over 300 global sports leaders gathered in Lausanne for the Olympism365 Summit, a key event reinforcing the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) commitment to using sport as a vehicle for positive societal change.

The summit aligned with the strategic priorities outlined in the Olympic Agenda and served as a platform for discussion on the intersection of sport, global development, and public policy. It offered insights into evolving governance models and investment strategies in social impact through sport.

IOC President Thomas Bach opened the event by emphasising the shared mission of placing sport at the service of society. Incoming President Kirsty Coventry highlighted the importance of collaboration, describing the Olympic Movement’s approach as one of “teamwork and stronger together.”

A key element of the summit was the involvement of 29 IOC Young Leaders, who presented community-based projects demonstrating sport’s capacity to drive social change. The initiative reflects the IOC’s investment in emerging leadership and innovation in sport for development.

The Forum for Olympic Esports Games, also held as part of the summit, drew over 120 participants. This forum supports the IOC’s preparations for the first Olympic Esports Games in 2027 and signals a broader move to engage with the growing sports and gaming sectors.

The Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF) convened during the summit to review progress and endorse a new five-year strategic plan aimed at supporting displaced populations through sport. IOC President Thomas Bach will continue as ORF Chair, reaffirming the IOC’s focus on social responsibility and inclusion.

The summit also featured meetings between the IOC and international political leaders, including Hungary’s President Tamás Sulyok, Slovenia’s Prime Minister Robert Golob, and EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef. Discussions focused on sport’s role in public policy and the importance of maintaining the autonomy of sport within broader governance frameworks.

In addition, the Finance in Common Coalition outlined plans to mobilise USD$10 billion (AUD$15.4 billion) in sustainable financing for community sports initiatives by 2030. This announcement reflects increasing alignment between the sports sector and global development finance institutions.

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