2024 Speakers

Gerard PIQUÉ

Founder

Gerard Piqué is a former professional soccer player and entrepreneur, known for his success with FC Barcelona, Manchester United, and the Spanish national team. A World Cup winner in 2010 and a European Champion in 2012, Piqué also won four UEFA Champions League titles.

After retiring, he founded Kosmos, a sports and media holding company, and developed both the Kings League and Queens League, innovative 7-a-side football competitions that have evolved into a unique and differentiated ecosystem and have taken the future of sport and entertainment to a new dimension that millions of young people around the world want to be part of.

Piqué's ventures reflect his passion for innovation and sports, extending his influence beyond the pitch as a key figure in reshaping the football experience for fans worldwide.

• In Conversation with Kosmos - Kings League Founder Gerard Piqué

J. Michael EVANS

President & Director, Alibaba Group

J. Michael Evans has been President of Alibaba Group since August 2015 and Director since September 2014. In May 2023 he was appointed Chairman of the Alibaba International Digital Commerce business. Prior to joining Alibaba Group, Michael spent over thirty years in global finance. He served as Vice Chairman of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. from February 2008 until his retirement in December 2013. Michael also served as chairman of Asia operations at Goldman Sachs from 2004 to 2013 and was the global head of Growth Markets at Goldman Sachs from January 2011 to December 2013.
In 1984, he won an Olympic gold medal for his home country Canada as a member of the men's eights rowing team in the Los Angeles Summer Olympics.

• Paris 2024: An Olympic Broadcast & Viewership Success

Yiannis EXARCHOS

CEO

After serving as a senior executive for all Olympic host broadcasting organisations since Athens 2004, Yiannis Exarchos was named CEO of OBS, the permanent host broadcaster for all Olympic and Youth Olympic Games, in 2012.
In 2015, he became Executive Director of OCS, the hub for content creation, technology, digital development, and data analysis for Olympics.com and the broader Olympic digital ecosystem; He also serves on the OCS SL Board of Directors.
With a rich background in radio, TV, music, and film, he has expertly managed global sports event planning and broadcasting. His extensive media experience has earned him 11 Emmys, 8 Webbys and 36 Telly Awards, among others.
Previously, he produced and presented cultural and art programmes on Greek TV and Radio, holding various high-level executive roles in different broadcast organisations, including Executive Director at the Greek national broadcaster.

• Paris 2024: An Olympic Broadcast & Viewership Success

Javier TEBAS

President

Javier Tebas Medrano (San Jose, Costa Rica, 1962), of Spanish nationality, holds a degree in Law from the University of Zaragoza. He has been a practising lawyer since 1987 and founded his own legal firm, specialising in Company Law and, subsequently, in sports and bankruptcy law.

Tebas’s direct involvement in football began in 1993, when he was named president of Sociedad Deportiva Huesca, a position he held until 1998 (a period during which the club competed in Spain’s Tercera Division and Segunda Division B). He later served as a board member at C.D. Badajoz S.A.D. and C.D. Toledo S.A.D. before being elected vice-president of LaLiga in 2001. In 2003 he headed up the G-30, a group representing 30 small LaLiga clubs that was set up to collectively negotiate their audiovisual rights. He has been LALIGA president since 2013 and was re-elected in 2016 and again for a further four-year term in 2019. In 2021 he was appointed as representative of European Leagues on the UEFA Executive Committee.
Tebas’s tenure as LALIGA president has revolved around three core areas; the introduction of a financial controls system which has enabled the clubs to restructure their finances; the collective sale of audiovisual rights which boosts the clubs’ revenue in a balanced way, and the league’s internationalisation strategy, which has seen LALIGA and its member clubs establish themselves as a benchmark reference on the global stage, not just on the field but in the entertainment industry as a whole. In addition, Boost LALIGA, the strategic project of LALIGA and CVC Capital Partners, was recently created to promote growth and consolidation in the areas of technology, innovation, internationalisation and the sporting sphere.

• Big Tech's Role in Enabling Audiovisual Fraud

Scott YOUNG

Group SVP, Content, Production & Business Operations, WBD Sports Europe

Scott Young joined WBD Sports in 2020. He is Group SVP Content, Production and Business Operations and oversees its central and localised sports content in 50 markets across Europe, on TNT Sports in the UK and Eurosport across the continent. Flagship events include delivery of the Olympic Games for Warner Bros. Discovery.

A sports media leader, Young holds more than 30 years’ industry experience and has a proven track record of harnessing the art of storytelling, combining editorial, technology and on-screen innovations that unlock the power of sport. Previously, Young headed up Sky Sports’ award-winning Formula 1 coverage. Prior to this, Young oversaw the transformation of IMG’s Television Production unit in South East Asia, which followed a five-year stint as the Head of Television and Content at V8 Supercars in Australia.

After spending more than a decade at Network Ten as the Head of Sport Production, Young’s motorsport expertise saw him lead the production of Network Ten’s entire sports rights portfolio including premium categories spanning Formula 1, MotoGP, the World Rally Championship, Supercars, Indy Car, World Superbikes and Red Bull Air Race.

• Paris 2024: An Olympic Broadcast & Viewership Success

Julie SOUZA

Global Head of Sports, AWS

Julie Souza leads sports globally for AWS, driving innovation in sports data, virtualized production and distribution, fan data and analytics, generative AI, and more. Prior to joining AWS, Julie led Strategy and Business Development for Second Spectrum, a pioneer in sports data and analytics. She held similar roles leading business development and driving strategy for ESPN, Sports Illustrated, and CBS Sports Network. Julie holds a BA from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

• Amazon Web Services Innovation in Sport
• Women's Networking Panel & Lunch Special Event

Marco MATERAZZI

Ambassador

The official ambassador of Blockchain Sports, mentor of the reality show "O Grande Jogo", which helps Brazilian children fulfill their football dreams. World champion and Five-time Italian Champion, Champions League Winner 2009/2010.

• Reality show "The Big Game"

Ursula ROMERO

CEO

Internationally recognized live sports producer, and director, Ursula Romero boasts a career spanning decades. With extensive experience in Olympic and Paralympic Games production (since 1996), she also has experience in major events like Athletics World Championships, European Games and FIFA World Cups. Currently, Ursula is the CEO of International Sports Broadcasting (ISB), pioneering with cinematic live feeds.

Her specialty in live sports is in outside races, having planned them for the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Ursula's production credits include the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for multiple Games and the announcement ceremonies for the 2016 and 2018 Olympic host cities. Beyond sports, she's a TV and film producer and director currently working on her second feature film and involved with the Global Esports Federation.

• Sports ABC - Sports Economy and AI Tech
• Sports ABC - Sports Economy and AI Tech
• Generative AI & Sports Production & Storytelling

Fredrik ADEMAR

Chief Product Officer

Fredrik Ademar, Chief Product Officer at Spiideo. Since 2016 overall responsible for product strategy and the portfolio of solutions for automated sports video production and sports performance analysis. Prior to Spiideo spent many years in the consumer electronics and global tech industry in different leadership roles at Sony, Blackberry and several smaller tech start-ups. Always driven by a passion for creating unique customer values and great user experiences, by combining innovative technology with creative design.

• TV-Class Production and Top-Tier Analysis with Swedish Pro Football Leagues

Giovanni AQUILANTI

Sales & Sponsorship Agent

With more than 15 years of international experience in Marketing, Sales and Procurement at Procter & Gamble and Philip Morris International, across Consumer Goods, Sports and Technology, Giovanni Aquilanti is now fully dedicated to the sports industry, with multiple engagements which started in Motorsport and brought him to SPORTEL Sales and Business Development. A fast learner, Giovanni is eager to engage in innovative action plans as well as connecting people and organisations with a view to promoting meaningful and high value added commercial interactions.

• Sponsorship as a New Revenue Generator

Keith BEDFORD

General Manager, EMEA

Keith Bedford is General Manager, EMEA at Wurl, a leader in the Connected TV industry. In his role, Keith oversees Wurl’s operations and key partnerships in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, working closely with his team to drive growth for the region’s publishers and streamers. Keith brings more than 20 years of broadcast experience to Wurl, having built and led teams to design, create, and deliver technology to numerous clients in his previous roles. Prior to Wurl, he founded The Media Tree, a broadcast consultancy business. Before that, Keith was the Managing Director of EBS, which worked with many major players in the broadcast industry - including ITV, BBC Studios, Discovery, CBS, and Time Warner - and eventually became PA TV Metadata following an acquisition by PA Media.

• How FAST is Shaping the Future of Sports Streaming

George BEVIR

Editorial Director

George Bevir is editorial director at SVG Europe, where he is responsible for leading the SVG Europe editorial team across the organisation’s physical and digital events, website and newsletters. Bevir joined SVG Europe from Broadcast magazine where he was facilities and technology editor and launched Broadcast Tech magazine. Prior to this, he wrote about the media and telecoms sectors in the Middle East. Before moving into journalism, Bevir worked for the BBC and Red Bee Media.

• Generative AI & Fandom: How Can It Change the Fan/Sport Relationship?
• Generative AI - Closing Roundtable

Dorian CAUVAS

CEO

Dorian Cauvas is 40 years old and the CEO and co-founder of Fairplayer. Dorian is an entrepreneur and sports enthusiast and before embarking on the Fairplayer adventure, he set up several companies including a digital bank for businesses and professional sports clubs.

A sportsman by nature and passionate about tech, it was quite natural that he decided to create Fairplayer in the world of sport and digital.

• The Pitch: Using AI or Innovative Technology to Revolutionise Sports Content

Franck CHOQUARD

EBU Sport Content and Platforms Expert & Director of Actua Sports

Franck has a vast amount of experience in leading complex media production and technology operations. He oversees the hostbroadcasting delivered by the EBU but also the development of innovative "Digital Content Hub & Media Services" platforms.
In 2009, Franck launched and developed, EPC, the EBU Sport production subsidiary, delivering HB operations for World / European Championships in Alpine Skiing, Aquatics, Athletics, Biathlon, or Cycling but also developing effective solutions supporting new events such as the 2018 ECHs in Berlin and Glasgow or the 2023 UCI Cycling WCHs in Glasgow.
Earlier this year, Franck has been offered the opportunity to lead Actua Sport, a new partnership between EBU and Pointprod - Actua to maintain "cost effective" production capacities within the EBU but also developing innovative platforms supporting the digital transformation of the Sport Broadcasting industry. 2024 European Athletics Championships in Rome being the first event benefiting of this new solution.

• How EBU Sport Wows Fans with Creative & Innovatively Produced Live Content

Lowell CONN

President

President & Co-founder of PROTOCOL SPORTS MARKETING and President of satellite/internet transmission provider TV2GO INTERNATIONAL - Lowell Conn is an expert in media rights distribution, content delivery and live sports production. Over the past decade, Protocol has licensed tens of thousands of hours of sports programming to broadcasters around the world. As traditional broadcast is being gradually displaced by digital and streaming, Conn and his team have pioneered creative approaches to leverage new platforms to enhance revenue for traditional sports properties, and to launch/monetize emerging sports.

• Sponsorship as a New Revenue Generator

Aarti DABAS

Chief Media Officer

Aarti has 25 years of experience across agency, broadcaster, a traditional governing body (with major events responsibility) and a fast-paced investor led rights holder. Currently Formula E’s Chief Media Officer, she is known for her engaging and empathetic leadership within the sports and media industry.
Having spent more than 12 years at the International Cricket Council (ICC) in increasing levels of responsibility up to Head of Media Rights & Digital, she has extensive experience and a deep understanding of growing audience and revenue through media rights, content development and packaging, insights/data driven approach to brand and content partnerships, digital and fan engagement, building and sustaining stakeholder relationships and leading diverse high performing teams.
Aarti grew up in India, and made her entry into sports broadcasting in 1999, at IMG TWI’s India office in Delhi. She now spends her time between London, Dubai and Formula E’s exciting race locations around the world.

• Women's Networking Panel & Lunch Special Event

Carlo DE MARCHIS

Founder

Carlo De Marchis is a seasoned sports technology executive with 35 years of experience in digital media and broadcasting. Formerly the Chief Product Officer and Evangelist at Deltatre, he played a pivotal role in pioneering innovations in sports streaming and fan engagement. Currently, he is a B2B creator under the "A Guy with a Scarf" brand, focusing on leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the fan experience across multiple platforms. Known for his thought leadership, Carlo continues to shape how global audiences interact with sports content.

• Understanding the Current Generative AI Landscape
• Generative AI & the Business of Sport
• Generative AI - Closing Roundtable

Nevio DEVIDE'

Chief Revenue Officer

Nevio DEVIDE’, Chief Revenue Officer of the Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 - Organising Committee XXV Olympic and XIV Paralympic Winter Games, has gained his professional experience both in the sport business and the data management technologies segments.

Former Marketing Director of the XX Olympic and IX Paralympics Winter Games in Turin and former International Sales Director for the Media Partners Group (currently Infront), he has also participated and managed companies evaluating media rights and activating global Olympic & Paralympic sponsorships as well as supported bidding for the Expo.

European Executive MBA at the ESCP Business School, he has been for several years CEO and CFO for the SIO SpA Group (Forensic Intelligence & Data Analysis Solutions).

Milano Cortina 2026 represents his eighth experience in the Olympic and Paralympic Games, following Athens, Turin, Beijing, Vancouver, London, Sochi and Paris.

As an athlete, Nevio has been a professional tennis player.

• Sponsorship as a New Revenue Generator

Johannes FRANKEN

Director of Digital

A long-term HBS collaborator, Johannes joined the company in 2012. Since then, he has led HBS’ Digital department and in this capacity, he has overseen the development and management of the multimedia services offered by HBS on behalf of clients such as FIFA (FIFA World Cup™, FIFA Women's World Cup™) or World Rugby (Rugby World Cup). Johannes works with organisations to help implement their digital strategies and optimise online presence. Always on the lookout for new, exciting technologies, Johannes has developed projects with XR, AI, or data integration; As a founding member and interim lead of skroller, HBS' dedicated digital activation arm, he is pioneering a innovative approach to empowering sports federations to transform athletes into influential creators.
Johannes’s background includes IT-consulting (v3 consulting GmbH) and production management (Plazamedia); his fields of expertise range from technical platforms to content creation for OTT products.

• Generative AI & Fandom: How Can It Change the Fan/Sport Relationship?

James FREWIN

Managing Director, International

James Frewin is the Managing Director, International at PFL, where he oversees international media rights, strategy, and the expansion of PFL’s International Leagues. He was instrumental in launching the organization’s first international league, PFL Europe, which has experienced rapid growth across all territories. Frewin has also played a key role in building PFL’s international media rights business and shaping its global expansion strategy. Prior to this, Frewin served as Vice President and General Manager for WWE in Australia and New Zealand. He brings over 10 years of experience in sports and entertainment, with expertise in broadcast, distribution, digital, live events, and global sponsorship. Before his tenure at WWE, James led the international football division at IMG Media.

• Building a Global MMA Powerhouse: The Champions League of MMA

Olga FRITZLER

Business Development

Olga is an expert in blockchain technology and corporate finance. She holds qualifications from Oxford University in Blockchain Technology and Hamburg University in Project Management. Olga has extensive experience in blockchain advisory and finance consulting, including roles at Robert Bosch. She has also managed key accounts in the Med-Tech sector at Philips. Her diverse background equips her with a strong strategic and financial acumen, making her a leader in her field.

• Reality show "The Big Game"

Shifa GARG

Chief Business Officer

Shifa is the founding member of Spectatr. With over a decade of financial and entrepreneurial expertise, Shifa brings a unique blend of strategic insight and operational acumen to her role. Before Spectatr, Shifa spent 5 years at Goldman Sachs. Her passion for innovation led her to pivot to an operational role. Under Shifa's leadership, Spectatr is driving a new era in sports, empowering clients to navigate the digital age with confidence.

• Generative AI & the Business of Sport

Richard GILLIS

Owner

Unofficial Partner is the leading podcast for the business of sport, with listeners from across the upper reaches of the global industry.
Richard’s career mixes award winning journalism with a career as a strategic adviser to sports governing bodies, sponsors and agencies.
He was listed number 5 in the sport category of PR Week’s Powerbook list of industry influencers. As Cake’s Managing Partner he ran a specialist sport and entertainment consulting group within Havas, the sixth largest marketing group in the world. Before joining Cake, Richard was a strategic advisor to Lloyds Bank on its London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Partnership.
He was editor of SportBusiness International and is a regular contributor to sports industry debate across national and international media, including the FT, WSJ, The Observer and The Irish Times. His book on leadership, The Captain Myth was The Guardian’s sports book of the year.

• The Bundle Live @SPORTEL Monaco

Nic GOARD

Head of Sport & Content Partnerships

Nic is the Head of Sport and Content Partnerships for Fox Sports Australia, part of the Foxtel Group, Australia’s leading sports media company.

With Foxtel Group holding the largest portfolio of sports media partnerships in Australia, Nic serves as the primary contact for various international and domestic rights holders and agencies along with managing content, channel, international distribution and commercial partnerships across Fox Sports, Kayo and Foxtel.

A seasoned sports industry leader with over 15 years of experience, Nic has also worked previously at beIN Sports Asia Pacific along with brand sponsorship agencies in Australia.

• SPORT(EL) Spotlight: What Next for Cricket as it Continues its Growth Journey?

Dinis GUARDA

CEO of Ztudium/Sportsabc

Dinis Guarda is an award-winning thought leader and serial entrepreneur with a global impact. Dinis wears many hats - author, academic, YouTuber, podcaster, and influencer with a massive online following (over 1 million) across various platforms. He has also founded and advised companies, including Metaverseabc and Blocksdna.com, exploring the cutting edge of AI, Blockchain, and the Metaverse.
Dinis boasts decades of experience in international business with expertise in digital transformation, new tech, and cryptocurrencies. He has been involved with bank creation, ICOs, and top digital currencies. As a founder, Dinis has created successful companies like ztudium Ltd. (Blockimpact software) andintelligenthq.com.
A champion of digital transformation, Dinis co-founded techabc and citiesabc to empower cities through 4IR technologies. His collaborations extend to prestigious organizations like the United Nations, UNESCO, and leading Universities.

• Sports ABC - Sports Economy and AI Tech
• Sports ABC - Sports Economy and AI Tech

Scott GUTTERMAN

SVP Digital Broadcasting

Scott leads the PGA TOUR Digital and Broadcast Technology teams, delivering top digital, linear, and live streaming experiences. He oversaw the TOUR's digital transition in 2013. In 2021, they introduced Every Shot Live at THE PLAYERS Championship. The teams developed the Apple Vision Pro App and TOURCAST platform. Recently, they updated the PGA TOUR’s apps and websites. By late 2024, they will complete the new PGA TOUR Studios facilities for live production in January 2025.

• Generative AI & the Business of Sport

Tom JEFFS

Vice President Media Business Development

Tom Jeffs leads media business development for the PGA TOUR focusing on new revenue streams and strategic growth via IP distribution. Responsible for the monetization and distribution of TOUR IP - video, data, imagery, and audio - across new and emerging platforms (digital, social, FAST, web3, etc.). With 13 years of experience at the TOUR, Tom has led, structured, closed, and operated deals/partnerships with some of the most important companies in our space, including MLBAM/BAMTech, NBC Sports, Amazon, X, Meta, Google, and several more.

• Behind the Lens: Creating a Successful Sports Docuseries

Claire KELLY

Managing Director, Gemba Europe & Middle East

Claire Kelly has forged a career in working at the cutting edge of consumer strategy, insight and analytics. As the Managing Director of Gemba’s European & Middle East business, Claire leads a team which is passionate about bringing a deeper understanding of sports fan attitudes and behaviours to clients such as the ICC, Arsenal, LIV Golf and Decathlon. Claire has previously led Insight teams operating both client side and consultancy side in the Retail sector, before making the move into Sports and Entertainment 7 years ago, where prior to working at Gemba, Claire was Chief Operating Officer at Sports Intelligence Agency Twenty First Group.

• The Bundle Live @SPORTEL Monaco

Ken KERSCHBAUMER

Editorial Director

Ken Kerschbaumer is co-executive director of editorial services for the Sports Video Group and SVG Europe. He has been writing about how sports networks and leagues use video and audio technology to deliver a quality TV experience since 1991. In 2000, he joined Broadcasting & Cable magazine as senior editor of technology where he covered technology for the broadcast industry. He helped launch SVG and SVG Europe in 2006 and today the company holds events for sports production professionals around the world.

• Understanding the Current Generative AI Landscape
• Generative AI - Closing Roundtable
• Generative AI & Sports Production & Storytelling

Glen KILLANE

Executive Director

Glen Killane joined the EBU in August 2018 as Deputy Director of Eurovision Sport, stepping up to the role of Executive Director of EBU Sport in June 2020. He is a member of the EBU Senior Leadership Committee (SLC).
Glen began his career as a sports journalist working in editorial positions for RTE and for ITV in London where he was editor of live football. He was Group Head of Sport for RTE from 2004 until 2010 and was elected as Vice Chair of the EBU Sport Committee.
Before joining the EBU, Glen became Managing Director of Eir Sport and Eir TV, owned by Irish Telco Eir, where he led the launch of their OTT pay sports business and ran the company’s IPTV platform. He was Managing Director of RTE Television from 2010 until 2016.
Since taking over leadership of EBU Sport, Glen has overseen the successful Olympic Rights acquisition (2026 -2032) along with several other significant rights acquisitions, the launch of the Eurovision Sport Platform and a restructuring of the department.
Glen is a voluntary member of the Sport Ireland, Women in Sport Advisory Committee. Women’s Sports have been a particular focus for the acquisitions team along with pushing new technological advances such as the use of AI commentary on the Eurovision Sport Platform.

• The Bundle Live @SPORTEL Monaco

Melissa LAWTON

Chief Content Officer

Melissa Lawton is Chief Content Officer at SailGP and heads the league’s global production strategy to create a breakthrough grand prix racing product in SailGP. From broadcast production to social media content creation and non-live content creation including SailGP’s docu-series Racing on the Edge, Lawton has played an integral role in bringing the world’s most exciting race on water closer to fans than ever before.

Prior to SailGP, Lawton was the Head of Production at Meta for just over four years. She was also previously Head of Live Content for Red Bull TV for five years. Her 20-year-long career has included long-term production roles at events such as the Beijing and Sydney Olympics, FIFA World Cup in Korea/Japan, and the Commonwealth Games in India.

A trailblazer for women in sports broadcasting, Lawton has had to forge her own path throughout her career, gravitating naturally towards companies like SailGP that are unafraid of disrupting the status quo and thinking about the industry in a different way. Lawton also believes in developing a content strategy that is both sustainable and responsible to act as a blueprint for other leagues and organisations to follow.

• Women's Networking Panel & Lunch Special Event

Pete LEONE

Sales Director for Media, Entertainment and Sports

Pete Leone is a Sales Director for Veritone, focused primarily on AI within Sports and Live Entertainment. He partners with organizations to deploy AI-solutions and services, transforming their media archives into new revenue. Pete comes from a technology consulting background with almost fifteen years of experience working in the entertainment industry for Capgemini and OnPrem Solution Partners, where he spent time with Disney, Warner Bros, NBCU, and Discovery. He is currently responsible for managing 30+ enterprise sports customers (e.g., NCAA, USA Soccer, Big Ten Network, USGA, SF Giants) and leading new business.

• Generative AI & Fandom: How Can It Change the Fan/Sport Relationship?

Arne LIEVENS

Founder

Arne Lievens, with over 25 years of experience in broadcast and sports media, has worked on prestigious global sports events and with top organizations in the industry. Known for his expertise in blending video, data, and fan engagement, Arne drives innovative solutions that enhance audience interaction and streamline content distribution. His deep industry knowledge and proven track record make him a trusted partner for broadcasters and sports organizations aiming to transform their digital strategies and boost fan engagement.

• The Pitch: Using AI or Innovative Technology to Revolutionise Sports Content

James LORD

Director of Broadcasting

James is the current Director of Broadcast for World Athletics, looking after their media rights as well as TV production, most notably focussed on the bi-annual World Championships. With a background at Sky UK, BT Sport and ECB, he is also spearheading the plans for a new global athletics competition, the World Athletics Ultimate Championships, which is due to go live in 2026 and more recently worked with Netflix and Box2Box to commission the Docuseries Sprint that reached Top 10 across more than 50 countries around the world.

• Behind the Lens: Creating a Successful Sports Docuseries

Callum MCCARTHY

Editor in Chief

Callum McCarthy is the Editor in Chief of SportBusiness, the world’s most trusted source of global sports media rights intelligence. Callum leads a team of journalists and analysts dedicated to providing market-leading insight on deals, developments and trends from around the world of sports broadcasting. Over the past 25 years, SportBusiness Media has collected commercially sensitive information on over 21,000 media rights deals - a total that continues to grow.

• Behind the Lens: Creating a Successful Sports Docuseries

Gaurav MEHTA

Co-Founder

Educated as a mechanical engineer, and ex-race car driver with Volkswagen Motorsport, Gaurav co-founded Quidich in 2015. He deeply believes in the power that sport as a medium possesses to unite people across boundaries. Today, Quidich empowers various federations, leagues, rights holders and broadcasters across sports, with advanced technology solutions that visually enhance fans' viewing experiences, thereby elevating live broadcasts globally.

• SPORT(EL) Spotlight: What Next for Cricket as it Continues its Growth Journey?

Joanna MERCHIE

Conference Director

Joanna has been at the heart of the event management organization Monaco Mediax for over 20 years and has headed SPORTEL’s conference programming since 2017, including SPORTEL Monaco, the SPORTEL Rendez-vous series in Miami and Bali, and SPORTEL Summit.
Within the organization Joanna also leads the Business Content conference for the Monte-Carlo Television Festival.
Key management and conference roles in previous Monaco Mediax B2B events include WIMA NFC Monaco/USA and IMAGINA 3D among others.

• The Pitch: Using AI or Innovative Technology to Revolutionise Sports Content

Kaius MESKANEN

CEO

CEO, Choicely - No-code app development platform.
Focused in the success of Choicely, building powerful mobile apps without coding.
1 Exit before Choicely
2008 - 2014 CEO, LIFESTYLE Architecture & Design.
Special Forces, Finnish Defence Forces.
9 languages - 78 countries.

• The Pitch: Using AI or Innovative Technology to Revolutionise Sports Content

Marcel MOHAUPT

CCO

Marcel Mohaupt, is a Senior Executive with a deep background in Entertainment, Media, and Sports industry. Marcel has an expert knowledge within broadcast, video streaming and media production along with strong marketing, sales, and media skills and profound experience in senior management roles in global operating sports and media companies such as FIFA, ProSiebenSat1 Media, 20th CENTURY FOX, DTM and EUROPEAN LEAGUE OF FOOTBALL.

• Amazon Web Services Innovation in Sport

Ladislav NAVRATIL

Co-Founder

Ladislav Navrátil is the Co-founder and CEO of Tivio Studio, with over a decade of experience in the video industry. Tivio Studio provides streaming solutions globally, offering innovative tools like multi-camera views and interactive features to enhance content monetization and user engagement. The studio also expands distribution through FAST Channels and advanced Ads Management systems, maximizing revenue and ensuring seamless integration with third-party platforms.

• First Live Referee Camera in MMA
• The Pitch: Using AI or Innovative Technology to Revolutionise Sports Content

Marco NAZZARI

Director of Marketing, Brand and Business Intelligence

Marco Nazzari is currently the Director of Marketing, Brand and Business Intelligence at FIFA - with a wide remit that oversees FIFA’s brand development, fan engagement strategies, data analysis and market positioning.

He joined FIFA in 2023, having previously been Managing Director of Sports across all International Markets at Nielsen, where he engaged with over 1,200 clients across Major Leagues, Teams, Brands, Platforms and Agencies from every territory.

Marco has been fully committed to the sports marketing industry since 1996, having led major marketing campaigns around F1, MotoGP, the UEFA Champions League and the Olympic TOP Partner Programme - in particular during Vancouver 2010 and London 2012.

Prior to Nielsen, Marco worked as Chief Revenue Officer (Europe) at Repucom and currently serves as a member of the marketing commission for the Global Esports Federation and as a regular contributor to the sports industry media.

• Sponsorship as a New Revenue Generator

Chris NEILSON

Channel Controller - EurovisionSport.com

Chris serves as the Channel Controller of EurovisionSport.com, overseeing content strategy and editorial operations in collaboration with the EBU and NAGRA Sport. With 20 years of experience in the broadcast industry, he began his career in programming roles at ITV and Sky, and later became part of the founding team at BT Sport, contributing to the rights acquisition team. Over the past seven years, Chris has been based in Switzerland, working in media rights and production for International Federations like the FIH. In 2023, he joined NAGRA to support business development, including its partnership with the EBU.

• How FAST is Shaping the Future of Sports Streaming

Alex PAUGAM

Director of Business Development

As the Director of Business Development at Harmonic, Alexandre leads a dynamic, cross-regional team focused on driving new qualified opportunities, managing strategic accounts and global strategic alliances. Alexandre and his team play a pivotal role in promoting Harmonic's innovative SaaS offerings across EMEA and APAC and nurturing worldwide strategic partnerships.

With over a decade of experience in the video industry, Alexandre brings a wealth of expertise in systems engineering, program management, customer success, and business development. Prior to his current role at Harmonic, he held various key positions at Harmonic and Thomson Video Networks, contributing significantly to the companies' growth and success.

Alexandre holds a Master of Science in Information Technology from ISEN France and a Master of Business Administration from FBS France. His extensive background and leadership skills make him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the industry.

• Revolutionizing Sports Streaming: AI and New Monetization Innovations

Michael PAYNE

Chairman & CEO

Michael Payne has been at the forefront of the sports marketing industry for over forty years - having led the global marketing effort for the Olympic Movement for two decades, from 1983 to 2004 as the IOC’s first ever Marketing and Global Broadcast Rights Director. Nominated as one of the world’s most influential marketers by Advertising Age.

On leaving the IOC, Michael founded his own strategic consultancy, Payne Sports Media Strategies, working with many of the world’s leading sports groups and companies. For more than a decade, Michael acted as special advisor to F1’s former Chairman / CEO Bernie Ecclestone, pioneering the effort to bring F1 to new markets. Following the sale of F1 by CVC to Liberty Media, Michael continued to act as a strategic advisor to CVC Group, most recently brokering their investment in World Volleyball.

Michael continues to advises on major Olympic, F1 and other sports, developing some of the world’s largest broadcast and sponsorship deals. Most recently the ground breaking Alibaba - IOC long term partnership deal, and conceived the innovative Joint TOP long term partnership for Coca-Cola & Chinese Dairy giant Mengniu - collectively together valued at over $5billion.

His business book, Olympic Turnaround details the business story of how the Olympic Games stepped back from the brink of bankruptcy to become the world’s best known brand - and a multi billion dollar global franchise.

In 2021 Michael released TOON IN! ( www.olympiccartoon.com ) ‘the unofficial and entirely unsanctioned Olympic History - a large format coffee table book for charity. The book been critically acclaimed around the world and in 2022 won the prestigious Sunday Times Best Sports Book of the Year Award (Illustrated).

Michael is a regular commentator on sports marketing industry affairs for CNN, BBC, Bloomberg, Financial Times and other media groups around the world

• Paris 2024: An Olympic Broadcast & Viewership Success

Jean-Marc RACINE

Chief Product Officer

Mr. Racine has over 25 years’ experience in product, marketing, sales and executive positions in the media and entertainment industry working in France, UK and USA. Passionate about creating richer content with the use of new technologies, Mr Racine has worked with major international broadcasters and technology vendors on a large range of innovation & transformation projects aiming to deliver market leading video experience to consumers.

• Private 5G, Mobile & Ultra Low Latency: Lessons Learned From a Summer in Paris
• Private 5G, Mobile & Ultra Low Latency: Lessons Learned From a Summer in Paris

Yannick Manuel RAMCKE

General Manager OTT

Yannick Manuel Ramcke is General Manager OTT at OneFootball (joined in 2019), a leading digital football platform including 200M+ monthly users around the world. He oversees the company’s direct-to-consumer streaming business, reimagining the distribution/monetization of video content to the ultimate benefit of the football ecosystem. Yannick also shares his thoughts on OFFTHEFIELDBUSINESS.de covering digital business models and trends at the intersection of sports, media, technology, and empowered end consumers. Previous work experience includes roles in investment banking (Commerzbank), private equity (Deutsche Private Equity), as well as sports media and entertainment (ProSiebenSat.1).

• The Bundle Live @SPORTEL Monaco

Gareth REES

Head of Commercial Distribution

Gareth is Head of Commercial Distribution at World Rugby, responsible for driving growth and new revenue streams across digital, video and data. Previously he spent 12 years at Perform Group and then DAZN, starting in the production team managing content delivery, before moving into the commercial team. Prior to that, he worked at the International Tennis Federation, Extreme Sports Channel and lastminute.com and has been involved with sports video (stuff!) for most of his career.

• How FAST is Shaping the Future of Sports Streaming

Merav SAVIR

Head of Marketing

Merav Savir is a content and marketing professional and former sports and news journalist. After more than a decade in front of a camera and reporting from the sidelines of basketball courts, Merav made the switch to marketing in the technology industry, but staying with her passion: sports. She has since been working with Infront Lab, helping sports organizations globally learn about and embrace technologies to improve their day to day initiatives.

• Breaking Down The Fan-Centered Formula for Sports Streaming Success

Georgette SCHLICK

CEO, Northern Europe

Georgette Schlick, CEO of Fremantle Northern Europe, is having an impressive career in the media and entertainment industry. After studying law at Utrecht University, she began her career as a Legal Counsel. She soon took her first entrepreneurial steps, founding legal secondment agency Brunel Legal, part of the international listed company Brunel, specialised in recruitment and workforce services.
In 2008, her career took a new twist when she was appointed CEO of Dutchview (currently NEP Netherlands). After being responsible for selling Dutchview, Georgette moved to SBS Broadcasting, where she again held the role of CEO. Her experience and leadership brought her to Fremantle in 2014, where she initially oversaw operations in the Netherlands and Belgium. In October 2022, she took on leadership of Northern Europe.
In addition to her work at Fremantle, Georgette Schlick is a member of the Supervisory Board of football club AFC Ajax, a Supervisory Board member of BCD Travel and member of the Supervisory Board of SD Worx.

• Behind the Lens: Creating a Successful Sports Docuseries

Dominik SCHOLLER

VP Product Management & Innovation

Dominik Scholler is the Vice President of Product Management and Innovation at DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga, where he oversees the strategic development and implementation of Bundesliga‘s media products and innovations. Since 2008, he has crafted forward-thinking product strategies and facilitated their implementation with media partners worldwide. With a strong focus on the future of the sports media experience, Dominik and his team are redefining how football fans engage with the Bundesliga, both in Germany and around the globe.

• Generative AI & Fandom: How Can It Change the Fan/Sport Relationship?

Jeja SVENSSON

Head of Digital Transformation

Jeja Svensson is the Head of Digital Transformation at the Swedish Professional Football Leagues and Product Manager for http://Fotbollplay.se. For the past seven years, Jeja has collaborated with Sweden’s top 32 football clubs, driving innovation through shared investments in technology, data governance, and new revenue models, while transforming insights into actionable strategies. Previously, Jeja worked at leading digital agencies in Sweden, specializing in product-market fit, UX strategy, and crafting engaging customer journeys to build long-term loyalty and engagement.

• TV-Class Production and Top-Tier Analysis with Swedish Pro Football Leagues

Ross TANNER

Sr. VP - Sales, EMEA

Ross Tanner is Senior VP - Sales, EMEA region at Magnifi. Ross is a dynamic media professional with industry-leading experience at sports rights holders, federations, football clubs and media agencies across the world.

Specialised skillset in devising and implementing content distribution strategies for sports broadcasters, digital publishers and social-first clients globally.

• The Pitch: AI or Innovative Technology - Winners Announcement
• Generative AI & Sports Production & Storytelling

Yossi TARABLUS

AVP Global Marketing

Yossi Tarablus is the AVP of Global Marketing at Pixellot, a leader in AI-automated sports production. With a strong background in strategic marketing and online advertising, he focuses on driving omnichannel growth for tech companies. Yossi has been recognized as one of the top 50 marketing leaders in the European broadcasting sector. He holds an MBA in Marketing and has extensive experience in developing brand and performance strategies that foster growth and results in the sports-tech industry.

• The Opportunities and Vision for Regional Sports: CBC Sports Connect's Evolution

Diana USTYMENKO

Head of Product OTT

Diana Ustymenko is Head of Product OTT at Sportradar, bringing over 7 years of experience at the crossroads of tech and sports. She’s delivered multiple D2C products for global sports rights holders and broadcasters. With a background in consulting, customer success, and business development, she’s led projects from acquisition to deployment. Diana is passionate about using her leadership to empower women to break boundaries and reach their full potential

• Women's Networking Panel & Lunch Special Event

Chris WILSON

Executive Director, CBC Sports & Olympics

Chris is the Head of CBC Sports and Olympics for the Canadian Public Broadcaster. Along with a year-round commitment to cover Canadian high performance athletes around the world, he championed CBC’s 2019 commitment to equal coverage of women’s sports across all platforms, and led the development of CBC Sports Connect, the youth streaming service they created in partnership with Pixellot. Prior to leading CBC Sports, he was the Director of Marketing for Swimming Canada.

• The Opportunities and Vision for Regional Sports: CBC Sports Connect's Evolution

Imran YUSUF

Editor, SportBusiness Media

Imran Yusuf is Editor for SportBusiness Media, the world's most trusted source of media rights deal data, analysis and intelligence.

• SPORT(EL) Spotlight: What Next for Cricket as it Continues its Growth Journey?

Ophir ZARDOK

Head of Sports Strategy & Business Development

A graduate of the prestigious FIFA Master Course, Ophir has been involved in sports at different levels for over 20 years. Since 2009, he has served as UEFA Venue Director and previously launched a sports tech accelerator to bring innovation to the sports space with Microsoft ScaleUp, Deloitte Sports and HYPE Sports Innovation. At LiveU, Ophir’s role is to lead the sports strategy in EMEA/APAC, working with sports organizations, production companies, broadcasters and media companies.

• How EBU Sport Wows Fans with Creative & Innovatively Produced Live Content