On 9 March 2026, the European Sports Business Program officially commenced its first module with a deep dive into strategy. Participants - coming from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise - had the opportunity to engage in a series of lectures, where future-proofing the sports industry in a rapidly changing cultural and technological landscape stood at the center. The opening session provided a strong foundation for the program and encouraged a free exchange of ideas and perspectives, setting the tone for upcoming discussions in Stockholm and Paris.

Hosted at WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management, the module featured contributions from leading academic and industry experts, including Prof. Dr. Sascha L. Schmidt, Kerstin Carolin Forword, Yannik Rosenlehner, and Niclas Höppner. Their sessions were widely praised for combining academic rigor with practical insight, offering participants valuable frameworks to navigate current and future challenges in sport management. We also extend our thanks to all participants who actively engaged in the lectures and contributed to the discussions, highlighting the importance of open dialogue when shaping the future of sport.

The ESBP is a joint initiative developed by WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management, the Stockholm School of Economics, and ESSEC Business School. Designed as an international executive program, it consists of three intensive three-day modules held in Düsseldorf, Stockholm, and Paris. The curriculum covers key themes such as strategy, leadership, business development, and transformation within the sports sector.

As the ESBP progresses, it aims to equip current and emerging leaders in sport with the tools, insights, and networks needed to drive innovation and sustainable growth across the global sports industry. We look forward to continuing this journey in the upcoming modules.