Header image
Bild
Content
Text
60 years of shaping active spaces
Text
Since 1965, IAKS has connected experts, shared knowledge, and advanced the quality of sports and leisure facilities worldwide. What began as a small group of visionaries has grown into a global network spanning more than 150 countries – while remaining true to its original mission: creating better spaces for active living.
Image
Bild
Text
Founded on the power of exchange
In May 1965, eighteen sports facility experts from six European countries met in Düsseldorf with a shared conviction: better sports and leisure facilities require collaboration across disciplines and borders. They founded the IAKS – International Working Group for Sports Facility Construction ("Internationaler Arbeitskreis Sportstättenbau").
From the beginning, the organisation brought together expertise from sports-related planning, construction, operations, education, medicine, and public administration. This interdisciplinary approach was ahead of its time and remains at the heart of IAKS today.
What started as a professional exchange among pioneers quickly evolved into an international platform for knowledge sharing and innovation in sports and leisure infrastructure.
Text
Building a global platform
The late 1960s laid the foundations for many of the formats that still define IAKS today.
In 1967, the association launched sb, its international magazine for sports and leisure facilities. Published in multiple languages, it quickly became an important source of information and inspiration for professionals around the world. Just two years after its foundation, IAKS had already grown to 720 members in 42 countries.
In 1969, IAKS organised its first international congress in Cologne, establishing a tradition that continues to bring together experts from across the globe. Held alongside the FSB trade fair, the IAKS Congress remains one of the world's leading events for sports and leisure facilities.
Image
Bild
Image
Bild
Text
A trusted partner of the Olympic Movement
The International Olympic Committee recognised the value of IAKS at an early stage and joined the association in 1968. This partnership has grown steadily over the decades and led to the establishment of one of the industry's most prestigious architecture prizes.
Since 1999, the IOC IAKS Architecture Prize has recognised outstanding sports and leisure facilities from around the world. The award celebrates innovation, sustainability, accessibility, and social impact — values that have guided IAKS throughout its history.
Today, IAKS is proud to be an IOC Recognised Organisation and a trusted partner for organisations committed to creating better places for sport, leisure, and active living.
Text
Looking ahead
While much has changed since 1965, the mission of IAKS remains remarkably consistent: connecting people, sharing knowledge, and advancing the quality of sports and leisure facilities worldwide.
Today, the IAKS network brings together planners, architects, operators, municipalities, researchers, and industry experts from more than 150 countries. Through international congresses, publications, awards, webinars, expert circles, and regional activities, the organisation continues to foster the exchange of ideas that inspired its founders six decades ago.
The history of IAKS is not only a story of the past. It is a story that continues to be written by its members every day.
Image
Bild
Text
Become part of it!
Unlock new opportunities, connect with industry experts, find inspiration, learn from others – all with an IAKS membership!
Membership fees start from EUR 180/y for an individual membership plan.