MADRID, 18 Sep. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The eighth edition of the World Football Summit (WFS) Europe kicked off on Wednesday at FIBES (Seville), marking the start of two days of knowledge, networking and innovation in the global football industry with thousands of professionals from the sector in attendance.
The opening day featured keynote speakers such as LaLiga president Javier Tebas; Maheta Molango from the Professional Footballers Association; Oscar Mayo from Atlético de Madrid; Paul Cuttil from Liverpool FC; and Will Hutton from the Premier League.
Industry leaders shared their insights on crucial topics such as the application of technology in football, investment strategies, sustainability initiatives, development of women’s football and new revenue streams in the digital age.
Some of the challenges were also addressed, such as the impact of the current calendar on player performance and the fight against piracy. “Piracy is the biggest challenge facing the football industry today,” said Tebas.
Attendees from around the world, leading brands and football clubs and organisations such as FIFA, UEFA and the ECA, the event also featured promising startups, offering them a platform to present their solutions as sources of growth for the industry.
Sustainability and inclusivity have taken a prominent role on the event’s agenda. Panels, among other topics, covered the need to create opportunities for female executives in the world of sport, inclusion and the adoption of sustainability as a key priority.
Additionally, WFS has partnered with Bosquia to plant a forest in the region, offsetting the carbon footprint of the event. WFS has also taken important steps towards inclusion, aiming to achieve 30% female representation among speakers and attendees across both days.
The first day concluded with the prestigious WFS Awards gala, presented by the Junta de Andalucía. Among the honourees were Real Madrid, Juventus Football Club, Fernando Carro (CEO of Bayer 04 Leverkusen) and Parma Calcio.
“The energy and eagerness to collaborate that we have witnessed today is truly inspiring. As we conclude our time in Seville, we are confident that the connections created and ideas exchanged here will continue to shape the future of football globally. This event has not only highlighted Seville and Andalusia as centres of sporting innovation, but has also opened up unprecedented opportunities for the entire football ecosystem,” said Marian Otamendi, CEO of World Football Summit.