Stephan Fox, President of AIMS, reflects on a year full of milestones for the organization he leads and outlines a strategic vision for the future of global sport. With a career spanning from being a champion athlete to becoming an influential leader in the global sports arena, Fox has made clear his commitment to inclusion, equality and support for athletes of all disciplines.
At a recent conference, Fox reviewed AIMS’ progress and highlighted the pivotal role it plays within the Olympic Movement, as well as the impact of its sister organization, United Through Sports (UTS), in promoting universal values through sport.
AIMS’ ROLE IN THE OLYMPIC STRUCTURE
Since its recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2016, AIMS has established itself as the umbrella that brings together sports on their way to IOC recognition. In a context where the dissolution of GAISF has redistributed responsibilities, SportAccord and AIMS work alongside other key players such as ASOIF and ARISF to boost new disciplines within the Olympic movement.
“In the last decade, 11 sports have achieved full IOC recognition, and three have been included in the 2026 and 2028 Olympic Winter or Olympic Games,” Fox noted. This achievement reflects the close collaboration between sports federations and international bodies for the benefit of athletes and federations.
UNITED THROUGH SPORTS
United Through Sports (UTS), also chaired by Fox, has become a global benchmark in promoting inclusion and equality. Since its founding, it has united more than 100 international federations and organizations with a common goal: to give a voice and opportunities to young people of all abilities.
The World Youth Festival, one of its flagship events, celebrates the talent and diversity of young athletes each year, providing a space to highlight their abilities and listen to their concerns. “These festivals showcase the spirit of solidarity and energy that unites our global sporting family,” commented Fox.
INSPIRING DIVERSITY
Among the year’s most significant events, Fox highlighted the collaboration between AIMS and UTS at SportAccord, where youth leaders were honored. He also highlighted the World Combat Games in Saudi Arabia, which integrated youth activities, and the AIMS conference at the Olympic House in Lausanne, clear examples of the shared vision of both organizations.
“Each event has a unique and essential purpose. The richness of our community lies in its diversity, and together we pursue shared goals with tangible impact,” he said.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025
Looking ahead to the coming year, AIMS will continue to strengthen its mission of supporting the development of member federations. In this regard, Fox highlighted the crucial role of associations such as ARISF, ITA and WADA in promoting strong anti-doping standards and the growth of sports around the world.
Among future initiatives, Fox confirmed that Malaysia will host the next World Youth Festival in 2025, with new strategic partners to be announced soon. In addition, AIMS will continue to foster sport development at the local level, ensuring that the foundations of global sport are inclusive and sustainable.
THANKS TO THE IOC AND THE OLYMPIC FAMILY
Finally, Fox expressed his gratitude to the International Olympic Committee for its continued support. “Our strength lies in meaningful partnerships. We do not duplicate efforts, but create a unique impact within the Olympic Family.”
