APSO Sport Technical Meeting 2025 brings together experts on Para sport event hosting

Tue, 08/26/2025 - 16:00

On Thursday, 21 August, APSO hosted its annual Sport Technical Meeting online via Zoom. The three-hour session gathered 24 specialists and staff members, representing 17 APSO member federations and one IPC sport, to share expertise and exchange practical solutions on hosting Para sport events.

The discussions focused on some of the most pressing operational challenges faced by International Federations and Local Organising Committees. Key themes included:

  • Entry Fees and Cost Models – Participants compared approaches to structuring entry fees that balance affordability for teams and athletes with the financial needs of hosts. Ideas included flexible fee models, integrated Olympic/Para event hosting, and early confirmations to reduce overall costs.
  • Technical Officials and Staffing – Federations shared strategies for covering the costs of International Technical Officials and IF staff. A notable example came from Para Fencing, where teams are required to bring referees based on the number of athletes registered – a model that helps share responsibilities and secure event quality.
  • Accessibility and Logistics – Ensuring accessible venues, hotels, and transport was another central theme. Experiences showed that site visits with athletes, multi-year hosting contracts, and partnerships with experienced service providers can significantly improve delivery standards.

Reflecting on the meeting, APSO Honorary Secretary General Sergey Lyzhin summarised:

“The voices in this meeting reminded us that every operational decision must ultimately serve the athletes. By addressing costs, officials, and accessibility together, APSO members are shaping a sporting environment where athletes can thrive.”

The meeting highlighted the value of collective problem-solving and knowledge sharing among Para sport stakeholders. By exchanging experiences, APSO members continue to develop practical frameworks that support both sustainable event hosting and athlete-centred delivery.