The European Athletics Convention in Batumi, Georgia, brought together national federations, experts, and leaders for a full day of collaboration, ideas, and forward thinking on Friday (24).
From participation and competition formats to governance and sustainability, four themed workshops showcased how European Athletics and the Member Federations are shaping the future of the sport.
Growing Participation and Inspiring Communities
The day began with “Athletics for All – Ways to Grow Participation & The Outdoor Hunt”, led by Esther Akihary and Karin Grute Movin.
Through speed presentations, open discussions and outdoor interactive session facilitated by Cherry Alexander OBE, Ana Krstevska, Emmanuelle Jaeger, Hillevi Thor, Jean-Sebastien Dauch, Dr Katrin Heyers, Dr Kristin Behrens, Sam Payne, Tia Hellebaut OLY to showcase strategies and creative programmes to make athletics more accessible — from playgrounds to podiums.
Athletics for All is not just a slogan, but a shared mission to open doors, bring people outdoors, and inspire lifelong participation in sport.
Innovation in Action
Innovation was in the spotlight in “Competition Embracing Change”, led by European Athletics Vice President and Birmingham 2026 Championship Director Cherry Alexander OBE.
The workshop explored how new competition formats, fan engagement strategies, and technology can make athletics more dynamic and relevant to modern audiences.
Highlights included a presentation by Dr Jan Lehmann, CEO of the European Olympic Committees, on the development of the European Games and the EOC’s evolving role in shaping continental sport. Delegates also heard insights into the World Rankings system and its influence on team selection and event structures.
A live Q&A with Cherry Alexander and Andy Kay gave participants a behind-the-scenes look at innovation in Europe’s most successful athletics events.
Strengthening Integrity and Leadership
Trust and transparency were the focus of “Governance Building Trust – Practical Governance for Today’s Challenges”, led by Sylvia Barlag, Frank Carreras, and Ami Baran from the European Athletics Governance & Integrity Commission.
The session provided practical advice for member federations on strengthening accountability and integrity within their organisations.
Discussions reinforced that good governance is not just about compliance — it’s about culture, credibility, and confidence.
Levels, Leadership and Legacy
The day concluded with “Fast Track to Sustainability – Levels, Leadership & Legacy”, led by Dr Katrin Heyers, Ana Krstevska, and Emmanuelle Jaeger.
Participants explored new approaches to environmental leadership, sustainable event management, and community engagement — all essential to the sport’s long-term future.
A major highlight was the launch of the Sustainability Ambassadors Project, which will empower new leaders to promote sustainable practices within their federations and local communities.
A Shared Commitment to Progress
The European Athletics Convention 2025 showcased the collective ambition driving the sport forward.
From inclusion and innovation to governance and sustainability, every session highlighted the progress possible when the athletics community works together.