It’s a wrap! The 29th edition of the IAKS congress attracted nearly 500 industry experts and delegations from 41 countries, offering excellent opportunities for the exchange of new ideas and for networking. The event established many lasting connections, presented new ideas and created exciting perspectives for the entire sports and leisure facility industry.
The IAKS Congress offered four days of stimulation with high-caliber speakers and inspiring contributions on topics ranging from "Strategies towards net-zero sports and leisure facilities" and "The public value and social return on invest of physical activity and recreation infrastructure" to " Sustainable public pools", “The sports hall for the future” and “Future-proof models for ice arenas”.
This is what congress participants said:
“I found it a really enthralling event and made so many new contacts.”
Emma Bernstein, UK (Strategic Projects Lead, Sport England)
“Thank you for all of the work you put into organizing Congress. It was my first time, and it really was a special event and was very well run.”
Paul Fast, Canada (Principal, hcma)
“A big well done for a very successful 2025 IAKS Congress. A great week of learning, networking and socializing.”
Shaun Dawson, UK (Chief Executive, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority
THANK YOU to the congress attendees, speakers, chairpersons, and sponsors
The 29th IAKS Congress has been a truly enriching experience and only possible because all of you came to Cologne with an open mindset and high interest in best practices and future trends. A huge thanks to the speakers who shared their invaluable knowledge and expertise. Many thanks to the chairpersons who led the congress attendees through four inspiring days. We also want to thank the 29th IAKS Congress sponsors who supported the event:
