How do we identify and develop a future champion? What real value does artificial intelligence bring to sport? How can European sport continue to grow without losing its identity? These questions will be at the heart of the 8th LSU Sports Forum, taking place in Kaunas on 22 October.
The event is one of the largest sports science forums in Europe, bringing together sports experts, researchers, leaders of sports organisations, and representatives of business and technology from Lithuania and abroad.
“This year’s Sports Forum will invite us to look at the future of sport and at the changes that are already shaping the entire sports ecosystem today,” says Prof. Dr Diana Rėklaitienė, Rector of the Lithuanian Sports University (LSU). According to her, the Forum will provide a space not only to hear international perspectives, but also to explore together what kind of sport we want to build for the future.
One of the most relevant topics for the sports community will be the future of the European sports ecosystem. Particular attention will be given to how cooperation between clubs, leagues, federations, business partners and fans can support sustainable growth while preserving competitiveness and European sporting identity. This topic will be addressed by Chus Bueno, General Director of EuroLeague.
The Forum will also focus on talent identification and development. Today, increasing attention is being paid not only to recognising potential, but also to creating the right conditions for talent to develop. Bob Browaeys, one of Belgium’s leading experts in talent identification and player development, will share insights based on both scientific knowledge and practical experience.
Another key theme will be technology and innovation in sport. Artificial intelligence, data and new digital solutions are transforming athlete preparation, sports organisations, fan experience and business models. Iris Córdoba, General Manager of the Global Sports Innovation Center powered by Microsoft, will discuss these developments, emphasising that the key challenge is not simply to adopt new technologies, but to understand the real value they create for sport.
“We are delighted that our Honorary Doctor Chus Bueno now holds such a highly responsible position. Our long-standing relationship made it possible to invite him to the LSU Sports Forum and to discuss together the highly relevant future of European basketball,” says Prof. Dr Edmundas Jasinskas, Vice-Rector for Research at LSU.
The 8th LSU Sports Forum will not only review the most important international trends, but will also invite participants to discuss how today’s decisions may shape talent development, the work of sports organisations, the use of technology and the future of the European sports system as a whole.
Since 2019, the event has been organised annually by the Lithuanian Sports University (LSU) together with the National Sports Agency, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport and the Lithuanian National Olympic Committee.
More information about the LSU Sports Forum and registration: https://www.lsu.lt/en/sport-forum-2026/
