The city of Dubai is poised to become the epicenter of global sports dialogue as the inaugural Global Sports Summit (GSS) kicks off today, December 29th, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, and Minister of Defence. This landmark event, organized by the Dubai Sports Council, carries the powerful theme of “Uniting the World Through Sport” and promises two days of insightful discussions, inspiring stories, and strategic networking. With over 1500 sports leaders, stars, experts, and decision-makers converging in Jumeirah, the Global Sports Summit is set to redefine the future of the industry.
A Vision for the Future of Sport
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Sports Council, emphasized the significance of the summit, stating it will attract global attention and serve as a crucial platform for shaping the future of sport. He highlighted the event’s commitment to honoring sporting icons, reinforcing the unifying power of athletics, inspiring future generations, and nurturing emerging talents across various disciplines.
The Global Sports Summit isn’t merely a gathering of prominent figures; it’s a strategic initiative designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the sports ecosystem. Sheikh Mansour underscored that Dubai’s role as a host city is paramount, offering a unique environment for meaningful dialogue and the development of impactful initiatives. This event aims to address the challenges facing the sports world and unlock its vast potential for growth and positive social impact.
Day One: A Stellar Lineup of Speakers and Discussions
The first day of the summit is packed with compelling sessions featuring a remarkable roster of speakers. The program begins with an address from the Dubai Sports Council, delivered by Vice Chairman, Khalfan Jumaa Belhoul, followed by a keynote speech from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, titled “The Next 90 Minutes.” This promises to be a particularly insightful discussion on the immediate future of football and the opportunities that lie ahead.
The day continues with a series of high-profile panels and talks. Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports in the Kingdom of Bahrain, will also deliver a key address. Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic will participate in a captivating conversation, followed by a session featuring Tunisian tennis sensation Ons Jabeur and Spanish player Paula Badosa.
Football Leadership and Boxing Legends
A highlight of the day will be a discussion led by Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Chairman of Paris Saint-Germain and the European Club Association, moderated by former Liverpool and England striker Peter Crouch. This session will delve into the complexities of modern football club management and the evolving landscape of European football.
The afternoon will feature boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, sharing his experiences and insights. This will be followed by a speech from the UAE’s Minister of Sports, Ahmed Al Falasi, and a session with former boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk. The day concludes with a special session featuring Brazilian football icon Ronaldo Nazário, a two-time World Cup winner and recipient of numerous individual accolades. The sports industry will be keenly listening to his perspectives.
Day Two: Innovation, Investment, and World Champions
The second day of the Global Sports Summit builds on the momentum of the first, focusing on emerging trends and investment opportunities. The program opens with a session featuring mixed martial arts legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, discussing the future of combat sports, moderated by former Manchester United and England star Rio Ferdinand.
Football Icons and Investment Strategies
A compelling session will bring together Italian football stars Roberto Baggio and his daughter Valentina Baggio, alongside Alessandro Del Piero, the 2006 World Cup winner. They will share their experiences and perspectives on the beautiful game. Another session will feature American football stars Reggie Bush, Baron Davis, Marquis Colston, and Swin Cash, exploring the connection between playing and managing in sports.
The summit will also address the growing intersection of sports and fashion, with a panel including Jamie Wein, President of Jimmy Choo, Victor Cruz, a former American football player, and Michael Ottley, Commercial Director of AC Milan. A dedicated session will focus on the European Basketball League, featuring Abdullah Al Nabooda, founder and co-owner of Dubai Basketball Club, Tony Parker, a basketball legend and owner of ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, Paulius Motiejunas, CEO of the EuroLeague, and Jorge Garbajosa, President of the European Basketball Federation. Sports investment will be a key theme throughout the day.
The summit will conclude with a powerful session bringing together six World Cup-winning players and coaches: Brazilians Ronaldo and Cafu, Spaniards Carles Puyol and Iniesta, Frenchman Didier Deschamps, and Italian Fabio Cannavaro. This final discussion, moderated by another World Cup champion, Alessandro Del Piero, promises to be a fitting end to a truly global event.
Dubai: A Global Hub for Sports
The Global Sports Summit is a testament to Dubai’s growing prominence as a global hub for sports. By bringing together the brightest minds in the industry, the summit aims to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and ultimately, contribute to the continued growth and development of sport worldwide. The event’s focus on uniting the world through sport resonates deeply with Dubai’s own multicultural and inclusive spirit, solidifying its position as a leading destination for sporting events and initiatives. This summit is not just about discussing the future of sport; it’s about building it, right here in Dubai.