General Assembly 2026: Building a Stronger Voice for IOC-Recognised International Sports Federations
ARISF Members gathered in Lausanne on 5 October for the 2026 General Assembly, reflecting on a year of progress, strengthening cooperation with the Olympic Movement and looking ahead to the priorities shaping the future of IOC-Recognised International Federations.
The 2026 ARISF General Assembly brought together representatives of IOC-Recognised International Federations in Lausanne on 5 October for a morning of discussions on the opportunities and challenges shaping international sport.
Held at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, the Assembly provided an opportunity for Members to hear about the latest developments within the Olympic Movement, exchange on ARISF’s ongoing work and look ahead to the organisation’s priorities for the coming period.
A key part of the discussions focused on the evolving relationship between ARISF and the International Olympic Committee. Following the 146th IOC Session in Lausanne earlier this year, Members were updated on the IOC’s Fit for the Future strategic direction and on ongoing discussions around the recognition process and the role of ARISF. The discussions highlighted the importance of continuing to provide services and support to help Member IFs become better prepared and “Olympic Fit”, while fostering strong and constructive dialogue between ARISF, its Members and the wider Olympic Movement as international sport continues to evolve.
A significant part of the General Assembly focused on the implementation of the ARISF Strategic Plan and the work being developed across a number of key areas. The discussion began with Anti-Doping, with updates on ARISF’s continued cooperation with WADA and the International Testing Agency (ITA), including the educational opportunities made available to Members throughout the year.
Dr. Ugur Erdener, President of SportAccord
Mr. Jacques Antenen, Chair of the Board International Testing Agency (ITA)
Mr. Sébastien Gillot, Director of the European Office and Sport Movement Relations, (WADA)
This was followed by Good Governance, building on the Good Governance Assessment carried out with I Trust Sport, which provided valuable insights into the governance practices and needs of ARISF Members. Safeguarding was also highlighted, including ARISF’s continued support for the United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) coalition and its work to promote safer sporting environments. Members then heard about ARISF’s ongoing cooperation with the Olympic Movement Unit on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions (PMC), including ARISF’s representation on the PMC Advisory Board and the different initiatives supporting Members in protecting the integrity of their competitions.
Ms. Millie Beaton, UAOA Partnerships Engagement Manager
Mr. Friedrich Martens, Head of OM Unit PMC
Mr. Rowland Jack, Founder I Trust Sport
The discussion continued with Sustainability, with ARISF presenting its collaboration with Green Future Project and the ESG Academy developed to provide Members with practical resources and learning opportunities. Communication and Media were addressed through ARISF’s collaboration with Warner Communications, which is developing support to help Members strengthen their communication strategies, increase their visibility and better showcase their work. Finally, the Assembly looked at Marketing, including the ARISF Loyalty Programme, as part of the organisation’s efforts to create additional value and opportunities for its Members. Together, these initiatives demonstrate how ARISF is turning its Strategic Plan into concrete actions and developing services in response to the evolving needs of its Members.
Ms. Britta Warner, Warner Communication
While the Assembly provided an opportunity to look back at the progress made over the past year, the focus was firmly on what comes next. The discussions reflected ARISF’s continued ambition to strengthen its role as the collective voice of IOC-Recognised International Federations, while providing practical support and creating greater opportunities for cooperation.
The evening before the Assembly, ARISF and AIMS welcomed Members and guests to the annual ARISF & AIMS Dinner at the Maison du Sport International, hosted by Lausanne Olympic Capital. Bringing the ARISF and AIMS communities together in an informal setting, the evening was a chance to reconnect, share conversations and celebrate the spirit of friendship in sport that lies at the heart of the sporting community.
Mr. Sébastien Griesmar, Director Lausanne Olympic Capital
Dr. Raffaele Chiulli, ARISF President
Together, the discussions in the Assembly and the opportunity to connect with colleagues reflected the strength of the ARISF community and its shared commitment to working together for the future of international sport.
