A high-level roundtable discussion on the future of sport and emerging structural transformations in the sector was held on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai, bringing together sports ministers and international officials from several countries.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage, participated in the discussion alongside sports ministers and senior representatives from the United Arab Emirates, Ecuador, Lebanon, Tunisia, Seychelles and South Africa.
The discussion focused on how rapid technological advancements, including data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive media, are reshaping the global sports landscape. Participants noted that sport is increasingly evolving beyond entertainment to become a key societal tool influencing public health, youth development and national identity.
Key areas of focus included the use of AI and immersive media in sports governance and fan engagement, as well as the role of sport as a strategic instrument for social development. The need to modernise governance and financing frameworks to align with emerging technologies was also highlighted, alongside ensuring equitable access to sports opportunities in the digital era.
The roundtable further examined how governments and international sporting bodies can collaborate to strengthen regulatory structures while promoting inclusivity and sustainability within the sports sector.
Among the participants were Ahmad Bin Abdulla Belhoul Alfalasi, Minister of Sports of the United Arab Emirates; Gilda Alcívar García, Minister of Education and Sports of Ecuador; Nora Bayrakdarin, Minister of Youth and Sports of Lebanon; Sadok Mourali, Minister of Youth and Sports of Tunisia; Kalsey Bella, Minister for Youth and Sports of Seychelles; and Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa.
Several internationally renowned athletes and representatives from global sports federations were also in attendance.