LAUSANNE, November 13, 2023 - The International Federation Forum (IF Forum) has opened its annual congregation, a cornerstone event that exudes the vitality of the global sports community. Organized by SportAccord, the IF Forum taking place at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, is more than just a symposium; it is a beacon of knowledge-sharing and a showcase of best practices, attracting International Federations from both Olympic and non-Olympic realms. 

Over 300 leaders from more than 125 International Federations, alongside athletes, sports business luminaries, and exclusive IF Forum partners attended the welcome ceremony where Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), addressed the challenges the sports community is facing amidst intricate geopolitical sanctions, posing essential questions about the role of sports in times of tension. "In times like these, it becomes imperative to reflect on our role in this tension. Do we merely navigate the currents of discord, attempting to please everyone and avoiding criticism? Or do we anchor ourselves in our values?”

UNITE The IOC President underscored the importance of focusing on shared values and mission, even in divisive times, as they serve as a unifying force. "Our role is clear – to unite and counteract existing divisions, fulfilling our responsibility to stand together for the power of sports and the shared vision of making the world a better place through sports."

Bach emphasized the need for internal unity within the Olympic Movement, stating: "We cannot advocate for unity and understanding externally if we lack cohesion internally." He urged the sports community to be a unifying force for a world yearning for connections amid prevailing divisions.

"Our values guide us to transcend differences, fostering dialogue and common ground," Bach highlighted, reinforcing the notion that the responsibility to stand together for the power of sports has never been more significant.

POLITICAL FORCES Addressing challenges posed by divisive political forces, Bach urged resistance to political entanglements, emphasizing that while politics tends to divide, sports, by its nature, unifies. He applauded the commitment demonstrated over the past year, allowing athletes from all backgrounds to compete peacefully.

On the suspension of the Russian National Olympic Committee, Bach clarified that decisions are solely based on the actions of the committee and do not mandate automatic suspension of individual federations. He urged international federations to assess the situation on a case-by-case basis, emphasizing the IOC's commitment to safeguarding individual athletes.

"In times of challenge, the Olympic Movement stands strong, symbolizing unity and peace for all humankind," Bach asserted, setting the tone for the overarching goal of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

AI AND E-SPORTS In the digital age, Bach highlighted the importance of adhering to Olympic values. "Our values are and remain the red line that we will not cross. Any development in eSports will be guided by these principles.” IOC has established a working group to work on the matter as President Bach has remembered the new technology will completely change the sport.

Bach concluded by expressing his anticipation for the collaborative discussions at the IF Forum 2023, inviting the sports community to contribute to the exploration of the future. "Thank you for your continued commitment to the Olympic Movement," he remarked, embodying the Olympic motto of being "faster, higher, stronger together."