Inside SPOBIS 2025: What’s next for the Sports Industry?
A week since SPOBIS 2025 wrapped up, we’ve had time to reflect on our first experience attending Europe’s leading sports business conference. A few key themes stood out across two days filled with insightful panels, meaningful discussions, and dynamic networking opportunities.
Key Takeaways from SPOBIS 2025
1. AI in Sports - Transforming Operations and Decision-Making
Artificial Intelligence continues to revolutionize the sports industry, a topic explored in depth during sessions led by Javier Gil, LALIGA 's Head of AI Implementation and Development. He showcased practical AI-driven solutions that can significantly enhance daily operations in major sports organizations, from optimizing team performance to streamlining administrative workflows.?The big question remains: How fast can AI adoption scale across the industry?
2. The Football Industry - Between Stability and the Need for Reform
The Bundesliga 2025-2029 panel featuring Eintracht Frankfurt ’s Axel Hellmann sparked important conversations around the league’s financial structure, its reluctance to reform, and the ongoing debate about new capital influx. Topics like revenue distribution, financial regulations, and the 50+1 rule were at the forefront, with discussions revolving around whether the league should stick to its traditional model or embrace new strategies to stay competitive globally.
3. Brand Management and Sponsorship - The Red Bull Strategy
Another highlight was hearing from Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of Red Bull , on managing one of the most globally recognized brands and one of the biggest sports sponsors in the world. As a leader responsible for Red Bull’s diverse sports investments, Oliver Mintzlaff provided unique insights into the brand’s long-term vision, its sports marketing approach, and how Red Bull continues to innovate in sports.
4. National Hockey League (NHL) ’s Expansion and Globalization
From a broader sports business perspective, National Hockey League (NHL) Commissioner Gary Bettman shared the league’s strategies for increasing its global footprint, with a strong focus on European markets. With a new office in Zurich, the NHL is actively working to grow its international presence, offering valuable insights into how major leagues can expand their brand beyond their home markets.
Networking Insights - A Clear Demand for Digital Innovation
Beyond the panels, one of the most valuable aspects of SPOBIS was the opportunity to engage in high-level networking sessions with professionals from FC Bayern München , Eintracht Frankfurt , Borussia Dortmund , 飞利浦 , and many others. A clear trend emerged from these conversations: the sports industry is increasingly seeking advanced digital capabilities and software development expertise.
Organizations are looking for ways to enhance user experience through seamless, all-in-one applications, integrate new website and app features, and, in many cases, build digital solutions from scratch. There’s a strong push towards creating intuitive, engaging platforms that elevate the fan experience while driving business growth.
The Year of AI - Where Does It Go from Here?
Unsurprisingly, AI was one of the most discussed topics in the networking sessions. From automation to data-driven decision-making, companies are exploring how AI can simplify operations, reduce human intervention, and expand capabilities in sports tech. The industry is still navigating the full potential of AI, but one thing is clear: its impact on sports business will only grow in the coming years.
SPOBIS GmbH 2025 gave us a deeper understanding of where the sports industry is heading and the opportunities that lie ahead. With digital innovation and AI leading the way, we’re excited to continue driving impactful solutions for the sports world.
Until next time, SPOBIS!