The SportAccord Convention, the leading global platform that connects key decision-makers and experts from the international sports industry, the International Olympic Committee -IOC-, and other major stakeholders, will celebrate its 19th edition in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 24 to 28 May 2026. The decision was formalised with the signing of the Host City Agreement by SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener, the Ministry of Youth and Sport of Azerbaijan, and the Baku City Circuit Operations Company.

The SportAccord Convention has consolidated its role as the primary forum where sports leaders, international federations, national Olympic committees, host cities, and rights holders debate the opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of sport. The 2026 edition will be centred at the Baku Convention Center, with the Opening Ceremony staged at the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by Zaha Hadid.

“We are delighted to bring the 19th edition of the world’s most important gathering of sports leaders to Baku in 2026,” said Erdener. “The city has a strong track record in hosting major events, and this will be a significant moment both for SportAccord and for the entire sports industry.”

Baku named World Capital of Sport 2026

The choice of the Azerbaijani capital comes as part of wider international recognition. ACES Europe has designated Baku as World Capital of Sport 2026, acknowledging the city’s investment in modern infrastructure and its experience in staging world-class events.

The Minister of Youth and Sport, Farid Gayibov, stated: “Sport in Azerbaijan has always been supported with great care and attention by our state leader, His Excellency Ilham Aliyev. Our sporting achievements and our ability to host international competitions are the result of this commitment. Hosting the SportAccord Convention is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our capabilities and contribute to the global conversation shaping the future of our industry.”

A strategic moment after Milano-Cortina 2026

The SportAccord Convention in Baku will take place shortly after the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano-Cortina 2026, at a crucial moment of leadership renewal and shifting priorities within the Olympic Movement. The event is set to serve as a strategic forum to analyse the evolution of the international sports landscape amid institutional changes and emerging opportunities.

Over the last decade, Baku has strengthened its profile as a host city for major international events, from the European Games 2015 to World and European Championships across multiple sports, as well as the Formula One Azerbaijan Grand Prix since 2017. The city has also hosted high-profile international summits such as the UNESCO World Conference on Sport -MINEPS VII- in 2023 and the United Nations Climate Change Conference -COP29- in November 2024.