World-Class Leaders Announced: New Speakers for the IWG Global Summit

The IWG Global Summit 2026 continues to strengthen its line-up with the announcement of an outstanding new group of speakers, joining an already exceptional programme of global leaders shaping the future of sport.

Together, they represent leadership at the very highest level. From Olympic governance and international federations to research, policy and system-wide change, these speakers reflect the breadth of perspective at the heart of the Summit.

The newly announced speakers include:

• Kirsty Coventry OLY, President, International Olympic Committee

• Professor Laura McAllister CBE, Vice-President, UEFA

• Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE PLY, Chair, Sport Wales

• Richard Allcroft OBE, President, World Wheelchair Rugby

• Obehi Alofoje, Co-founder, Aurora

• Dr Nicole LaVoi, Senior Lecturer, University of Minnesota

The IWG Global Summit 2026 will take place in Birmingham, UK, from 9th–11th July, bringing together leaders from governments, international federations, professional sport, academia, brands and advocacy organisations to drive practical solutions for women and girls in sport.

This latest announcement highlights the calibre of leadership shaping the Summit - individuals influencing how sport is governed, funded and experienced globally. From Olympic achievement and international decision-making to evidence-led research and leadership development, their work demonstrates how systemic change can be realised across the sporting landscape.

Delivered across three days, the Summit will offer a highly curated platform for collaboration, insight and action, equipping leaders with the tools, partnerships and knowledge needed to embed equity into the future of sport.