A high-level roundtable discussion on the future of sport and emerging structural transformations in the sector was held on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai, bringing together sports ministers and international officials from several countries.

Sri Lanka’s Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage, participated in the discussion alongside sports ministers and senior representatives from the United Arab Emirates, Ecuador, Lebanon, Tunisia, Seychelles and South Africa.

The discussion focused on how rapid technological advancements, including data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive media, are reshaping the global sports landscape. 

Participants noted that sport is increasingly evolving beyond entertainment to become a key societal tool influencing public health, youth development and national identity.