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WELCOME TO MESIF LONDON 2026!
As our flagship global conference and exhibition, MESIF London 2026 will convene senior leaders and investors shaping the future of sport in the Middle East and beyond. Supported by numerous regional governments and major international sports brands, the forum focuses on the innovations, investments and national strategies that are driving the growth of sports in the Middle East.
Discussions will reflect core MESIF themes, including: scaling private sector partnerships, uniting the region, fostering innovation and redefining sport as a tool for legacy, identity and diplomacy. Our growing exhibition will also showcase the very best in technologies and private sector expertise.
From commercial models to cultural ambition, MESIF London highlights how the Middle East is not just participating in global sport—but helping define its future. This is the must-attend event for anyone looking to understand and engage with the region’s booming sports sector.
WHO IS ATTENDING?
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MINISTRIES OF SPORT FROM ACROSS THE REGION.
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LEADING SPORT FEDERATIONS.
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SPORTS CLUBS AND ATHLETES.
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INVESTMENT BODIES.
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SPORT BUSINESS LEADERS.
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LEADING SPORTS BRANDS.
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SPORT INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIALISTS.
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SPORTS INNOVATORS IN DATA AND ENGAGEMENT.
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SPORTS MARKETING & BRANDING EXECUTIVES.
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BROADCASTERS, MEDIA PERSONALITIES AND PRESS.
CONFIRMED SPEAKERS
Dr. Osman Aşkın Bak
Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Türkiye
Dr. Osman Aşkın Bak is a mechanical engineer, academic, and senior public official currently serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Türkiye. He graduated from Istanbul Technical University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, completed his Master’s studies in Business Administration and Industrial Engineering at the University of Nottingham, and earned his PhD in Industrial Engineering from Istanbul Technical University.
Dr. Bak has held key roles in both the public and private sectors, including membership in the Executive Board of the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK) and the Turkish-Iranian Business Council, as well as an Assembly Member at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce. He has extensive experience in sports governance, serving in leadership and advisory positions across various sports clubs and federations. He has numerous articles and scientific publications.
Dr. Bak was elected as a Member of Parliament for Istanbul and later for Rize across multiple legislative terms. During his parliamentary career, he served in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, acted as Spokesperson of the Foreign Affairs Commission, and chaired the Parliamentary Commission on the Fight Against Doping. He previously served as Minister of Youth and Sports in the 65th Government.
Dr. Osman Aşkın Bak is a mechanical engineer, academic, and senior public official currently serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Türkiye. He graduated from Istanbul Technical University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, completed his Master’s studies in Business Administration and Industrial Engineering at the University of Nottingham, and earned his PhD in Industrial Engineering from Istanbul Technical University.
Dr. Bak has held key roles in both the public and private sectors, including membership in the Executive Board of the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK) and the Turkish-Iranian Business Council, as well as an Assembly Member at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce. He has extensive experience in sports governance, serving in leadership and advisory positions across various sports clubs and federations. He has numerous articles and scientific publications.
Dr. Bak was elected as a Member of Parliament for Istanbul and later for Rize across multiple legislative terms. During his parliamentary career, he served in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, acted as Spokesperson of the Foreign Affairs Commission, and chaired the Parliamentary Commission on the Fight Against Doping. He previously served as Minister of Youth and Sports in the 65th Government.
Ibrahim S. Almoaiqel
Assistant Deputy Minister for Investment & Privatization, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Mansour Al Mokbel
CEO, Saudi Motorsport Company
Mansour Al Mokbel is the the new CEO at the Saudi Motorsports Company.
Mansour continues to also serve as the General Manager for Investments in the Ministry of Sport. He is responsible for catalysing investment-led growth in the sport sector through private sector participation. He leads a team that not only creates investment opportunities, but also enables a conducive environment for the private sector to profitably engage and flourish. Simultaneously, he leads monetization of infrastructure and assets of the Ministry and the commercialization of Ministry’s events and activities.
Prior to joining the Ministry of Sport, he served as the General Director for Delivery in the Ministry of Defence, leading a successful transformation program.
Mansour holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering from King Fahad University of Petroleum and Minerals and his Executive MBA from the George Washington University. He also has a Certificate in Management (CiM) from London Business School and Managing Successful Programmes MSP® Practitioner Certificate.
Mansour Al Mokbel is the the new CEO at the Saudi Motorsports Company.
Mansour continues to also serve as the General Manager for Investments in the Ministry of Sport. He is responsible for catalysing investment-led growth in the sport sector through private sector participation. He leads a team that not only creates investment opportunities, but also enables a conducive environment for the private sector to profitably engage and flourish. Simultaneously, he leads monetization of infrastructure and assets of the Ministry and the commercialization of Ministry’s events and activities.
Prior to joining the Ministry of Sport, he served as the General Director for Delivery in the Ministry of Defence, leading a successful transformation program.
Mansour holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering from King Fahad University of Petroleum and Minerals and his Executive MBA from the George Washington University. He also has a Certificate in Management (CiM) from London Business School and Managing Successful Programmes MSP® Practitioner Certificate.
Rawan Albutairi
CEO, Saudi Esports Federation
In her role, she manages relationships between the federation and entities abroad, including international governing bodies, ensuring that the vision for Saudi Arabia’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy to become a global esports hub is achieved through collaborations and tournaments.
Rawan joined the Saudi Esports Federation in February 2023. Prior to this she was a Senior Advisor and Program Manager for the Communications & Technology Commission, based in Riyadh, for a period of two years. Rawan began there after a Saudi Aramco secondment at the Ministry of Finance from 2019 until the start of 2021. She was selected for this as one of just two professionals within the entire Saudi Aramco organization, comprising more than 60,000 employees, to support the Saudi Presidency of the G20.
She worked for Saudi Aramco from 2013-2019 in Dhahran as a Team Lead in the Planning, Performance Management & Capital Division, heading a cross-functional committee that analyzed 15 capital projects comprising $3 billion. Before this she worked for Saudi Hollandi Bank in Khobar as a Relationship Manager with the Institutional Banking Group for three years.
Rawan received the distinguished honor of being chosen as part of the first cohort of the Misk (Mohammed Bin Salman Foundation) Leaders 2030 Program. She also participated in Mosaic, a leadership program founded by HRH Prince of Wales, from which she is a member of the class of 2015, and is the co-founder and vice president of entrepreneurial platform MUBADARA GCC.
Rawan plays a prominent role in social citizenship and leadership and has been involved with the World Economic Forum – Global Shapers Community since 2013. She served as the first Global Shaper and Curator of the Al Khobar hub and championed key social and community initiatives.
The Saudi national is a native Arabic speaker, is fluent in English, and speaks functional Spanish.
Rawan has an MBA from IESE Business School in Barcelona, from which she graduated in 2018, and a Bachelor of Science, Finance degree (with Honors) from the University of Maine, awarded in 2010.
In her role, she manages relationships between the federation and entities abroad, including international governing bodies, ensuring that the vision for Saudi Arabia’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy to become a global esports hub is achieved through collaborations and tournaments.
Rawan joined the Saudi Esports Federation in February 2023. Prior to this she was a Senior Advisor and Program Manager for the Communications & Technology Commission, based in Riyadh, for a period of two years. Rawan began there after a Saudi Aramco secondment at the Ministry of Finance from 2019 until the start of 2021. She was selected for this as one of just two professionals within the entire Saudi Aramco organization, comprising more than 60,000 employees, to support the Saudi Presidency of the G20.
She worked for Saudi Aramco from 2013-2019 in Dhahran as a Team Lead in the Planning, Performance Management & Capital Division, heading a cross-functional committee that analyzed 15 capital projects comprising $3 billion. Before this she worked for Saudi Hollandi Bank in Khobar as a Relationship Manager with the Institutional Banking Group for three years.
Rawan received the distinguished honor of being chosen as part of the first cohort of the Misk (Mohammed Bin Salman Foundation) Leaders 2030 Program. She also participated in Mosaic, a leadership program founded by HRH Prince of Wales, from which she is a member of the class of 2015, and is the co-founder and vice president of entrepreneurial platform MUBADARA GCC.
Rawan plays a prominent role in social citizenship and leadership and has been involved with the World Economic Forum – Global Shapers Community since 2013. She served as the first Global Shaper and Curator of the Al Khobar hub and championed key social and community initiatives.
The Saudi national is a native Arabic speaker, is fluent in English, and speaks functional Spanish.
Rawan has an MBA from IESE Business School in Barcelona, from which she graduated in 2018, and a Bachelor of Science, Finance degree (with Honors) from the University of Maine, awarded in 2010.
Ryan Norys
Chief Revenue Officer, Tottenham Hotspur
Ryan, currently Chief Revenue Officer at Tottenham Hotspur, joined Tottenham in 2022 as Commercial Director after a year at AS Roma where he also held the post of Chief Revenue Officer. Prior to AS Roma, Ryan was at WME (William Morris Endeavor) Sports. In his role at WME Ryan oversaw and executed all sales efforts for WME’s sports talent clients, in addition to premium property sales work, including consulting, naming rights, jersey patch and kit deals, and other premium sales assets for various leagues and teams.
Prior to joining WME Ryan was the Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Revenue for Omaze. In this role he managed the teams responsible for working with celebrities, brands, athletes and media partners to leverage their audience reach into funds and awareness for critical social causes.
Prior to joining Omaze, Ryan was the Vice President of Global Partnerships with the Los Angeles Dodgers where he managed an $80M+ portfolio of corporate partners. Before that, he was the Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships for the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, where he oversaw new business sales and partnership development. Ryan was instrumental in the Miami Dolphins securing the 2nd largest naming rights deal in the NFL, with Hard Rock International.
During his career, Ryan has also held leadership roles with the Prudential Center, New Jersey Devils, as well as at Manchester City FC where he secured their first regional partnerships in emerging markets throughout Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. He has also helped open new stadiums and assisted with various projects for the New York Yankees, New York Giants, New York Jets and the San Francisco 49ers.
Ryan is originally from California and graduated from George Mason University in the USA.
Ryan, currently Chief Revenue Officer at Tottenham Hotspur, joined Tottenham in 2022 as Commercial Director after a year at AS Roma where he also held the post of Chief Revenue Officer. Prior to AS Roma, Ryan was at WME (William Morris Endeavor) Sports. In his role at WME Ryan oversaw and executed all sales efforts for WME’s sports talent clients, in addition to premium property sales work, including consulting, naming rights, jersey patch and kit deals, and other premium sales assets for various leagues and teams.
Prior to joining WME Ryan was the Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Revenue for Omaze. In this role he managed the teams responsible for working with celebrities, brands, athletes and media partners to leverage their audience reach into funds and awareness for critical social causes.
Prior to joining Omaze, Ryan was the Vice President of Global Partnerships with the Los Angeles Dodgers where he managed an $80M+ portfolio of corporate partners. Before that, he was the Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships for the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, where he oversaw new business sales and partnership development. Ryan was instrumental in the Miami Dolphins securing the 2nd largest naming rights deal in the NFL, with Hard Rock International.
During his career, Ryan has also held leadership roles with the Prudential Center, New Jersey Devils, as well as at Manchester City FC where he secured their first regional partnerships in emerging markets throughout Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. He has also helped open new stadiums and assisted with various projects for the New York Yankees, New York Giants, New York Jets and the San Francisco 49ers.
Ryan is originally from California and graduated from George Mason University in the USA.
Taylor J. Agisim
Chief Strategy and Corporate Development Officer, SURJ Sports Investment
Taylor J. Agisim is a senior executive with over two decades of global experience across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. He has worked in eight countries, building a career at the intersection of sports, entertainment, investment, and strategic growth.
Mr. Agisim serves as the Chief Strategy and Corporate Development Officer at SURJ Sports Investment, the sports sector investment platform of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). In this capacity, he leads investment strategy & ideation, sourcing & screening, and execution. As a founding member of the SURJ team, he has led the development of the SURJ portfolio investments, such as the: ATP Masters 1000s, Professional Triathlon Organization, Professional Fighters League, & other sports leagues, enablers & JV partnerships in development.
Mr. Agisim’s career includes roles at sovereign investment funds, such as the Public Investment Fund (KSA) and Istithmar World Capital (UAE) and premier private sector organizations such as the AEG Worldwide, FLASH Entertainment, & HSBC. Mr. Agisim has deep expertise as a principal investor in sports private equity & venture capital, along with a strong operational background in strategy, business development, and fan engagement.
Mr. Agisim has actively shaped the global sports and entertainment landscape, leading projects in infrastructure development, destination placemaking, content creation, and community-driven initiatives. He contributed to award-winning & groundbreaking, first-of-their-kind experiences, including: the first Papal Visit and Holy Mass in GCC, Rolling Stones concert in the Middle East, Western live event in Saudi Arabia (WWE 2014), and NBA Global Game in India.
Mr. Agisim graduated cum laude with highest honors from Brandeis University and studied abroad at the London School of Economics and Semester at Sea. He is an alumnus of Harvard Business School and is currently a PhD candidate at Bayes Business School, City St. George's University of London, where his research is focused on The Future of Sports.
Taylor J. Agisim is a senior executive with over two decades of global experience across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. He has worked in eight countries, building a career at the intersection of sports, entertainment, investment, and strategic growth.
Mr. Agisim serves as the Chief Strategy and Corporate Development Officer at SURJ Sports Investment, the sports sector investment platform of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). In this capacity, he leads investment strategy & ideation, sourcing & screening, and execution. As a founding member of the SURJ team, he has led the development of the SURJ portfolio investments, such as the: ATP Masters 1000s, Professional Triathlon Organization, Professional Fighters League, & other sports leagues, enablers & JV partnerships in development.
Mr. Agisim’s career includes roles at sovereign investment funds, such as the Public Investment Fund (KSA) and Istithmar World Capital (UAE) and premier private sector organizations such as the AEG Worldwide, FLASH Entertainment, & HSBC. Mr. Agisim has deep expertise as a principal investor in sports private equity & venture capital, along with a strong operational background in strategy, business development, and fan engagement.
Mr. Agisim has actively shaped the global sports and entertainment landscape, leading projects in infrastructure development, destination placemaking, content creation, and community-driven initiatives. He contributed to award-winning & groundbreaking, first-of-their-kind experiences, including: the first Papal Visit and Holy Mass in GCC, Rolling Stones concert in the Middle East, Western live event in Saudi Arabia (WWE 2014), and NBA Global Game in India.
Mr. Agisim graduated cum laude with highest honors from Brandeis University and studied abroad at the London School of Economics and Semester at Sea. He is an alumnus of Harvard Business School and is currently a PhD candidate at Bayes Business School, City St. George's University of London, where his research is focused on The Future of Sports.
Fahad Alsubaie
Director - Clubs Investment, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Fahad AlSubaie plays a pivotal role in the transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports sector into a dynamic and investment-ready landscape. As the Director of Club Investments at the Ministry of Sport, he oversees from investment governance prospective over 170 sports clubs, 300+ assets, and manages 1,000+ transactions annually valued at over SAR 2 billion. He has been integral to enhancing the financial sustainability of 24 stadiums and shaping investor agreements for assets. His strategic insights have directly influenced the privatization and operational optimization of sports entities across the Kingdom.
Fahad AlSubaie plays a pivotal role in the transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports sector into a dynamic and investment-ready landscape. As the Director of Club Investments at the Ministry of Sport, he oversees from investment governance prospective over 170 sports clubs, 300+ assets, and manages 1,000+ transactions annually valued at over SAR 2 billion. He has been integral to enhancing the financial sustainability of 24 stadiums and shaping investor agreements for assets. His strategic insights have directly influenced the privatization and operational optimization of sports entities across the Kingdom.
Abdullah Al Rasheed
Director of Investment Enablement, Ministry of Sports KSA
In addition to his role in the Ministry of Sport, Abdullah acquires over a decade of an enriched, diversified experience in Private & Public sectors. Starting from the Banking industry in the Cash Management field with an exposure on Operations, Business Implementation, Product Creation & Management, to contributing into building the Strategic Partnership foundation with the private sector throughout his career in LCGPA.
Abdullah has a successful track record of building strong, sustainable partnerships with the private sector & state-owned companies, launching new innovative products into the market, and managing national initiatives which serves the national strategies.
In addition to his role in the Ministry of Sport, Abdullah acquires over a decade of an enriched, diversified experience in Private & Public sectors. Starting from the Banking industry in the Cash Management field with an exposure on Operations, Business Implementation, Product Creation & Management, to contributing into building the Strategic Partnership foundation with the private sector throughout his career in LCGPA.
Abdullah has a successful track record of building strong, sustainable partnerships with the private sector & state-owned companies, launching new innovative products into the market, and managing national initiatives which serves the national strategies.
Shaima Saleh AlHusseini
Managing Director, Saudi Sports for All Federation
Shaima Saleh AlHusseini is the Managing Director of the Saudi Sports for All Federation. Shaima advocates for a healthy lifestyle by inspiring all members of society to be physically active. This commitment reflects her desire to highlight the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to empower girls and women to play a role in the development of a vibrant society and healthy, active communities.
Shaima Saleh AlHusseini is the Managing Director of the Saudi Sports for All Federation. Shaima advocates for a healthy lifestyle by inspiring all members of society to be physically active. This commitment reflects her desire to highlight the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to empower girls and women to play a role in the development of a vibrant society and healthy, active communities.
James Bisgrove
CEO, Al Qadsiah Club
James Bisgrove is a Football CEO who, during his tenure at Rangers F.C. helped transform the club’s business operations by significantly increasing revenues and modernising its commercial and sporting infrastructure. A former UEFA executive responsible for the UEFA Champions League sponsorship programme, James was also appointed to the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) Board in 2023. During his time in Glasgow, Rangers won the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup, reached the Europa League Final, and qualified for the UEFA Champions League. In May 2024, Bisgrove moved to Saudi Arabia to become Chief Executive Officer of Al Qadsiah Club, backed by Saudi Aramco, where he is leading the club’s ambitious growth strategy and return to the top tier of Saudi and Asian football. Under his leadership, Al Qadsiah opened their new High Performance training Centre, finished fourth in the Saudi Pro League and reached the King’s Cup Final in the 2024/25 season.
James Bisgrove is a Football CEO who, during his tenure at Rangers F.C. helped transform the club’s business operations by significantly increasing revenues and modernising its commercial and sporting infrastructure. A former UEFA executive responsible for the UEFA Champions League sponsorship programme, James was also appointed to the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) Board in 2023. During his time in Glasgow, Rangers won the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup, reached the Europa League Final, and qualified for the UEFA Champions League. In May 2024, Bisgrove moved to Saudi Arabia to become Chief Executive Officer of Al Qadsiah Club, backed by Saudi Aramco, where he is leading the club’s ambitious growth strategy and return to the top tier of Saudi and Asian football. Under his leadership, Al Qadsiah opened their new High Performance training Centre, finished fourth in the Saudi Pro League and reached the King’s Cup Final in the 2024/25 season.
Dejan Kamenjašević
Co-founder and CEO, Dubai Basketball Club LLC
Dejan Kamenjašević, a European basketball leader and industry veteran with over 20 years of experience across the sport. Originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, he has built an international career shaped by high-performance basketball environments, combining technical expertise with strategic leadership.
Kamenjašević is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sports in Dubai Basketball Club, the first professional basketball franchise representing Dubai and the United Arab Emirates in international competition. Under his leadership, the club was established with a clear ambition to position Dubai on the global basketball map, progressing from participation in the ABA League to competing in the EuroLeague.
Kamenjašević has a proven track record of success, including coaching stints with top EuroLeague teams such as FC Barcelona and Baskonia, with multiple wins across competitions including the Catalan National League and the FIBA Champions League.
In parallel, Kamenjašević has been deeply committed to youth development, demonstrated through founding the Dubai Basketball Club youth program from the early stages of the franchise, supporting structured pathways for emerging talent and fostering growth aligned with international standards.
Kamenjašević brings a distinctive perspective on the intersection of sport, leadership, and market development, bridging established European basketball traditions with emerging opportunities in new, globally competitive markets.
Dejan Kamenjašević, a European basketball leader and industry veteran with over 20 years of experience across the sport. Originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, he has built an international career shaped by high-performance basketball environments, combining technical expertise with strategic leadership.
Kamenjašević is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sports in Dubai Basketball Club, the first professional basketball franchise representing Dubai and the United Arab Emirates in international competition. Under his leadership, the club was established with a clear ambition to position Dubai on the global basketball map, progressing from participation in the ABA League to competing in the EuroLeague.
Kamenjašević has a proven track record of success, including coaching stints with top EuroLeague teams such as FC Barcelona and Baskonia, with multiple wins across competitions including the Catalan National League and the FIBA Champions League.
In parallel, Kamenjašević has been deeply committed to youth development, demonstrated through founding the Dubai Basketball Club youth program from the early stages of the franchise, supporting structured pathways for emerging talent and fostering growth aligned with international standards.
Kamenjašević brings a distinctive perspective on the intersection of sport, leadership, and market development, bridging established European basketball traditions with emerging opportunities in new, globally competitive markets.
Ahmed Abbas
Samantha Bailey
Director of Stadium Revenue, Tottenham Hotspur
Samantha Bailey serves as the Director of Revenue at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, where she plays a key role in driving the club’s commercial success. Tottenham’s strong financial performance has been highlighted in the Deloitte Football Money League, with the club generating €673 million in revenue for the 2024/25 period. In her role, Bailey oversees all revenue generation streams, ensuring the financial success of the stadium across both football and non-football events. With a proven track record in delivering commercial growth, her leadership and strategic vision have been instrumental in building high-performing teams, executing effective sales strategies, and enhancing fan engagement year-round. Her contributions continue to strengthen the club’s position and reputation within the global sports industry.
Samantha Bailey serves as the Director of Revenue at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, where she plays a key role in driving the club’s commercial success. Tottenham’s strong financial performance has been highlighted in the Deloitte Football Money League, with the club generating €673 million in revenue for the 2024/25 period. In her role, Bailey oversees all revenue generation streams, ensuring the financial success of the stadium across both football and non-football events. With a proven track record in delivering commercial growth, her leadership and strategic vision have been instrumental in building high-performing teams, executing effective sales strategies, and enhancing fan engagement year-round. Her contributions continue to strengthen the club’s position and reputation within the global sports industry.
Hassan El Kamah
Commercial Director, Confédération Africaine de Football
A sports business executive with over 15 years of experience, currently serves as Commercial Director at the Confederation of African Football (CAF), where he leads strategic commercial initiatives to drive growth, partnerships, and long-term value across the organization. With over seven years of experience in Saudi Arabia as Commercial Director at Sela, he played a key role in delivering major sports and entertainment projects, shaping commercial strategies, and securing high-impact sponsorships in a rapidly evolving market.
His earlier career includes experience in the United States, working within the MLS ecosystem, where he developed a strong foundation in sports marketing, operations, and fan engagement within one of the world’s most dynamic sports industries.
Academically, he holds two master’s degrees: a Master of Sport Management from the University of San Francisco (USF) and the prestigious FIFA Master, reflecting a strong blend of academic rigor and global sports expertise. Hassan currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Sports Administration.
A sports business executive with over 15 years of experience, currently serves as Commercial Director at the Confederation of African Football (CAF), where he leads strategic commercial initiatives to drive growth, partnerships, and long-term value across the organization. With over seven years of experience in Saudi Arabia as Commercial Director at Sela, he played a key role in delivering major sports and entertainment projects, shaping commercial strategies, and securing high-impact sponsorships in a rapidly evolving market.
His earlier career includes experience in the United States, working within the MLS ecosystem, where he developed a strong foundation in sports marketing, operations, and fan engagement within one of the world’s most dynamic sports industries.
Academically, he holds two master’s degrees: a Master of Sport Management from the University of San Francisco (USF) and the prestigious FIFA Master, reflecting a strong blend of academic rigor and global sports expertise. Hassan currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Sports Administration.
Guillaume Thibault
Senior Partner, Oliver Wyman IMEA Sport & Entertainment Practice Head
Guillaume Thibault is a Senior Partner at Oliver Wyman and leads the firm’s Sport & Entertainment Practice across India, the Middle East, and Africa (IMEA). Based in Dubai, Guillaume has over 20 years of experience in strategy consulting, with a dual focus on economic development and the sports ecosystem. He is widely recognized for his ability to help governments, investors, and federations translate strategic ambitions into actionable roadmaps and investment opportunities.
Guillaume has been at the forefront of sports sector transformation in the region. He has worked extensively with several clients supporting the development of a national investment strategy to stimulate private sector participation and infrastructure modernization. His work spans sport policy design, regulation, infrastructure planning, and event governance.
Across more than 50 engagements globally, Guillaume has advised on the commercialization and development strategies of top-tier football clubs, national event calendars, and destination master plans integrating several sports and events. He has supported clients in Saudi, Qatar, France, and the UK on aligning mega-event delivery with broader tourism and economic outcomes. His expertise also includes fan engagement strategies, brand positioning, and events operations and commercialization and naming rights monetization.
Prior to joining Oliver Wyman, Guillaume worked at Merrill Lynch and Forrester Research. He holds degrees from ESSEC Business School and Sciences Po Paris.
Guillaume Thibault is a Senior Partner at Oliver Wyman and leads the firm’s Sport & Entertainment Practice across India, the Middle East, and Africa (IMEA). Based in Dubai, Guillaume has over 20 years of experience in strategy consulting, with a dual focus on economic development and the sports ecosystem. He is widely recognized for his ability to help governments, investors, and federations translate strategic ambitions into actionable roadmaps and investment opportunities.
Guillaume has been at the forefront of sports sector transformation in the region. He has worked extensively with several clients supporting the development of a national investment strategy to stimulate private sector participation and infrastructure modernization. His work spans sport policy design, regulation, infrastructure planning, and event governance.
Across more than 50 engagements globally, Guillaume has advised on the commercialization and development strategies of top-tier football clubs, national event calendars, and destination master plans integrating several sports and events. He has supported clients in Saudi, Qatar, France, and the UK on aligning mega-event delivery with broader tourism and economic outcomes. His expertise also includes fan engagement strategies, brand positioning, and events operations and commercialization and naming rights monetization.
Prior to joining Oliver Wyman, Guillaume worked at Merrill Lynch and Forrester Research. He holds degrees from ESSEC Business School and Sciences Po Paris.
Ahmed Mohtaseb
Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer, SELA
A seasoned executive with a proven track record of driving growth and innovation, Ahmed serves as the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Sela. Since the inception of Sela, he has played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory and securing strategic partnerships with renowned global brands. Leveraging his deep expertise in international business, Ahmed has successfully positioned Sela as a global market leader.
His unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients, coupled with his innovative approach to business development, has propelled Sela to the forefront of its industry.
As a strategic visionary, Ahmed is adept at identifying emerging trends and capitalizing on local and international growth opportunities. His ability to navigate complex business environments and execute on ambitious initiatives has been instrumental in Sela's success.
Through his leadership, Sela has consistently exceeded expectations and established itself as a trusted partner to clients worldwide.
A seasoned executive with a proven track record of driving growth and innovation, Ahmed serves as the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Sela. Since the inception of Sela, he has played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory and securing strategic partnerships with renowned global brands. Leveraging his deep expertise in international business, Ahmed has successfully positioned Sela as a global market leader.
His unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients, coupled with his innovative approach to business development, has propelled Sela to the forefront of its industry.
As a strategic visionary, Ahmed is adept at identifying emerging trends and capitalizing on local and international growth opportunities. His ability to navigate complex business environments and execute on ambitious initiatives has been instrumental in Sela's success.
Through his leadership, Sela has consistently exceeded expectations and established itself as a trusted partner to clients worldwide.
Ahmed Awad
Member of Board of Directors,
Al Ahly Football Company.
Member of Parliament (Egypt).
Al Ahly Football Company.
Member of Parliament (Egypt).
Munir Khoja
Managing Director, Jameel Motorsport
Munir Khoja has built a career spanning more than two decades in Saudi Arabia’s mobility industry, contributing to the development of the motorsports sector and supporting the continued growth of the Toyota brand in the Kingdom through his work within the Abdul Latif Jameel ecosystem.
Today, as Managing Director of Jameel Motorsport, Munir focuses on advancing a platform that has helped shape Saudi Arabia’s motorsports landscape since its early beginnings in 1997. Under his leadership, Jameel Motorsport continues to strengthen its role in supporting competition, nurturing talent, and expanding opportunities for motorsports enthusiasts in line with the Kingdom’s objectives.
His background is rooted in operational excellence and shaped by the principles of the Toyota Way, a management philosophy built on the Japanese Kaizen spirit of continuous improvement. This mindset has guided his approach to both operations and long-term strategy, helping strengthen the visibility and presence of the Toyota brand in the Kingdom. Over the course of his career, he has contributed to the development of operational practices that have informed broader approaches across the network.
Recognized by Forbes Middle East among the region’s 50 most impactful marketing and communications professionals, Munir continues to apply operational discipline to drive brand and revenue performance.
Munir Khoja has built a career spanning more than two decades in Saudi Arabia’s mobility industry, contributing to the development of the motorsports sector and supporting the continued growth of the Toyota brand in the Kingdom through his work within the Abdul Latif Jameel ecosystem.
Today, as Managing Director of Jameel Motorsport, Munir focuses on advancing a platform that has helped shape Saudi Arabia’s motorsports landscape since its early beginnings in 1997. Under his leadership, Jameel Motorsport continues to strengthen its role in supporting competition, nurturing talent, and expanding opportunities for motorsports enthusiasts in line with the Kingdom’s objectives.
His background is rooted in operational excellence and shaped by the principles of the Toyota Way, a management philosophy built on the Japanese Kaizen spirit of continuous improvement. This mindset has guided his approach to both operations and long-term strategy, helping strengthen the visibility and presence of the Toyota brand in the Kingdom. Over the course of his career, he has contributed to the development of operational practices that have informed broader approaches across the network.
Recognized by Forbes Middle East among the region’s 50 most impactful marketing and communications professionals, Munir continues to apply operational discipline to drive brand and revenue performance.
Ivan Shapochkin
Partner, Oliver Wyman Sport, Tourism & Entertainment Practice, IMEA
Ivan Shapochkin is a Partner at Oliver Wyman, based in Dubai, where he focuses on strategy and transformation projects in the sport, tourism, and entertainment sectors. With over a decade of international consulting experience across the Middle East, Europe, Australia, and Russia, Ivan works with public and private sector clients to unlock value at the intersection of policy, investment, and large-scale development.
Ivan has led a wide range of landmark projects in the sport economy. He supported GCC ministries in designing sport-focused investment strategies, identifying asset-level opportunities, creating investment materials, and activating global investor interest. His portfolio includes strategic roadmaps for elite football clubs, feasibility studies for mega-events, and commercialization strategies for mixed-use sport destinations. He has also helped shape activation plans for large-scale developments, using sport events to boost early-stage visibility and attract anchor partners.
Beyond sport, Ivan’s expertise spans tourism development, ESG strategy, and economic diversification. He has advised on country-wide construction sustainability strategies in the UK, supported the growth strategy of leading education and research centers in the GCC, and led destination planning projects focused on wellness, adventure tourism, and biodiversity. His background enables him to bridge technical rigor with policy insights and stakeholder alignment.
Ivan holds an MSc in Mechatronics Engineering from Moscow State Technical University and a BA in Finance from Moscow Finance University.
Ivan Shapochkin is a Partner at Oliver Wyman, based in Dubai, where he focuses on strategy and transformation projects in the sport, tourism, and entertainment sectors. With over a decade of international consulting experience across the Middle East, Europe, Australia, and Russia, Ivan works with public and private sector clients to unlock value at the intersection of policy, investment, and large-scale development.
Ivan has led a wide range of landmark projects in the sport economy. He supported GCC ministries in designing sport-focused investment strategies, identifying asset-level opportunities, creating investment materials, and activating global investor interest. His portfolio includes strategic roadmaps for elite football clubs, feasibility studies for mega-events, and commercialization strategies for mixed-use sport destinations. He has also helped shape activation plans for large-scale developments, using sport events to boost early-stage visibility and attract anchor partners.
Beyond sport, Ivan’s expertise spans tourism development, ESG strategy, and economic diversification. He has advised on country-wide construction sustainability strategies in the UK, supported the growth strategy of leading education and research centers in the GCC, and led destination planning projects focused on wellness, adventure tourism, and biodiversity. His background enables him to bridge technical rigor with policy insights and stakeholder alignment.
Ivan holds an MSc in Mechatronics Engineering from Moscow State Technical University and a BA in Finance from Moscow Finance University.
Fjolla Holzleithner
Founder, Dayholi
Fjolla Holzleithner is an Austrian entrepreneur and founder working at the intersection of immersive technology, sports, and consumer experiences. With more than 16 years of experience in marketing, sales, and brand activation, she has built international businesses focused on creating emotionally engaging experiences for global audiences.
She began her entrepreneurial journey by founding Brand Embassy, a high-end brand activation and experiential marketing company that delivered large-scale campaigns and live experiences for international brands and events, including Formula One, Red Bull, Samsung, Nespresso, and major lifestyle and sports properties. Under her leadership, the company rapidly scaled to more than 200 employees and became known for combining strategic marketing with premium consumer engagement concepts.
Building on this experience and her background in Marketing & Sales, including a Master’s Degree, Fjolla recognized early how technology could redefine the way people experience sports, entertainment, and live events. This vision led her to found Dayholi, an immersive sports technology company focused on next-generation 360° and VR live streaming experiences.
Today, Dayholi develops internationally patented immersive streaming technologies that enable sports organizations, rights holders, and entertainment brands to reach global audiences beyond the physical limitations of stadiums and venues. The company’s platform combines immersive live streaming, virtual reality, and multisensory experiences to create new digital revenue streams and redefine fan engagement for the future of sports and entertainment.
Fjolla is recognized for combining strong commercial execution with visionary thinking — bridging the worlds of experiential marketing, immersive technology, and global sports innovation.
Fjolla Holzleithner is an Austrian entrepreneur and founder working at the intersection of immersive technology, sports, and consumer experiences. With more than 16 years of experience in marketing, sales, and brand activation, she has built international businesses focused on creating emotionally engaging experiences for global audiences.
She began her entrepreneurial journey by founding Brand Embassy, a high-end brand activation and experiential marketing company that delivered large-scale campaigns and live experiences for international brands and events, including Formula One, Red Bull, Samsung, Nespresso, and major lifestyle and sports properties. Under her leadership, the company rapidly scaled to more than 200 employees and became known for combining strategic marketing with premium consumer engagement concepts.
Building on this experience and her background in Marketing & Sales, including a Master’s Degree, Fjolla recognized early how technology could redefine the way people experience sports, entertainment, and live events. This vision led her to found Dayholi, an immersive sports technology company focused on next-generation 360° and VR live streaming experiences.
Today, Dayholi develops internationally patented immersive streaming technologies that enable sports organizations, rights holders, and entertainment brands to reach global audiences beyond the physical limitations of stadiums and venues. The company’s platform combines immersive live streaming, virtual reality, and multisensory experiences to create new digital revenue streams and redefine fan engagement for the future of sports and entertainment.
Fjolla is recognized for combining strong commercial execution with visionary thinking — bridging the worlds of experiential marketing, immersive technology, and global sports innovation.
Mark Geday
Partner, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
Mark Geday is a partner at Morgan Lewis & Bockius and has more than 20 years of experience employing a range of innovative and market-defining transactions, including complex private and public matters involving parties with differing needs and goals, for clients spanning all areas of the private equity and asset management sector. Mark is a member of Morgan Lewis’ Sovereign Wealth Fund and Sports practices and regularly advises clients on their sports-related transactions. Mark advises on myriad aspects of company law including mergers and acquisitions, disposals, restructurings, joint ventures, fundraisings and strategic stakes.
Mark leverages his experience across the asset management sector to provide key insight to his clients, advising on solutions that allow them to maintain and achieve their key objectives. In the 2024 edition of The Legal 500 UK, Mark was described by clients as an “exceptional” lawyer who “we love working with . . . very much.” They also noted that he “is proactive and straightforward” and” knows his clients well.”
Mark Geday is a partner at Morgan Lewis & Bockius and has more than 20 years of experience employing a range of innovative and market-defining transactions, including complex private and public matters involving parties with differing needs and goals, for clients spanning all areas of the private equity and asset management sector. Mark is a member of Morgan Lewis’ Sovereign Wealth Fund and Sports practices and regularly advises clients on their sports-related transactions. Mark advises on myriad aspects of company law including mergers and acquisitions, disposals, restructurings, joint ventures, fundraisings and strategic stakes.
Mark leverages his experience across the asset management sector to provide key insight to his clients, advising on solutions that allow them to maintain and achieve their key objectives. In the 2024 edition of The Legal 500 UK, Mark was described by clients as an “exceptional” lawyer who “we love working with . . . very much.” They also noted that he “is proactive and straightforward” and” knows his clients well.”
Kamel Emad Badawy
Chief Data & Strategic Alliance Officer, Aspire Zone
Kamel Badawy is a distinguished business leader with over 20 years of experience across sports operations management, Investments, strategic partnerships, sponsorship, events management, and commercialization. As Chief of Data and Strategic Alliance at Aspire Zone Foundation, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s international reputation as a premier sports destination.
With expertise spanning marketing, business intelligence, procurement, and supply chain management, Kamel combines strategic vision with commercial acumen to deliver sustainable business growth. His leadership has driven high-impact collaborations, advanced data-driven strategies, and created new opportunities for innovation in the global sports industry.
Recognized as a visionary, he continues to champion excellence and inspire innovation, positioning Aspire Zone Foundation at the forefront of sports and business worldwide.
Kamel Badawy is a distinguished business leader with over 20 years of experience across sports operations management, Investments, strategic partnerships, sponsorship, events management, and commercialization. As Chief of Data and Strategic Alliance at Aspire Zone Foundation, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s international reputation as a premier sports destination.
With expertise spanning marketing, business intelligence, procurement, and supply chain management, Kamel combines strategic vision with commercial acumen to deliver sustainable business growth. His leadership has driven high-impact collaborations, advanced data-driven strategies, and created new opportunities for innovation in the global sports industry.
Recognized as a visionary, he continues to champion excellence and inspire innovation, positioning Aspire Zone Foundation at the forefront of sports and business worldwide.
Rhys Courtney
Senior Principal, Populous
Rhys is a Senior Principal and a key leader of Populous’ projects and business development in the MENA region. His portfolio spans various typologies, including stadiums, multipurpose arenas, training centres, aquatics facilities, equestrian venues, sports masterplans, and major events.
Since joining Populous in 2009, Rhys has become an expert in rugby, football, and esports venues, having worked on numerous related stadium and arena projects across the EMEA and Americas regions. Most recently, he led the design team for a 40,000-seat World Cup stadium, along with several ongoing training centre, arena and stadium developments in KSA and across the GCC region.
Rhys’s dedication to the built environment and sports architecture is evident in his utilisation of cutting-edge design technologies throughout the lifecycle of each project.
Rhys is a Senior Principal and a key leader of Populous’ projects and business development in the MENA region. His portfolio spans various typologies, including stadiums, multipurpose arenas, training centres, aquatics facilities, equestrian venues, sports masterplans, and major events.
Since joining Populous in 2009, Rhys has become an expert in rugby, football, and esports venues, having worked on numerous related stadium and arena projects across the EMEA and Americas regions. Most recently, he led the design team for a 40,000-seat World Cup stadium, along with several ongoing training centre, arena and stadium developments in KSA and across the GCC region.
Rhys’s dedication to the built environment and sports architecture is evident in his utilisation of cutting-edge design technologies throughout the lifecycle of each project.
Richard Felton-Thomas
COO, ai.io
Richard Felton-Thomas is the COO of ai.io and part of HUMAIN Sport Operations, with over 15 years of experience in Sports Biomechanics and Performance Technology. He has held leaderships roles in various sports businesses and organisations, contributing significantly to the development of performance and analytic tools that have ranged from Hardware to software and Ai. Richard's expertise extends across many industries including Sport, Military, Healthcare and Retail always with an emphasis on using technology at scale.
Richard Felton-Thomas is the COO of ai.io and part of HUMAIN Sport Operations, with over 15 years of experience in Sports Biomechanics and Performance Technology. He has held leaderships roles in various sports businesses and organisations, contributing significantly to the development of performance and analytic tools that have ranged from Hardware to software and Ai. Richard's expertise extends across many industries including Sport, Military, Healthcare and Retail always with an emphasis on using technology at scale.
Joe Rafftery
Director of Events, Oman Sail
Joe Rafferty is the Director of Events at Oman Sail, a government owned organisation tasked with rekindling Oman’s maritime eminence and creating opportunities for the nation’s youth. Since joining Oman Sail in 2018, Joe has led the Event division of Oman Sail where his highly Omanised team have overseen the successful bidding and staging of seven world championship events, two Olympic qualification events and a variety of mass participation projects supporting the sport and adventure tourism sector. In 2021 Oman Sail delivered 3 World Championship and 3 Asian Championship sailing events in 11 weeks, leading to the team being recognised as the ‘Best Event Organiser’ by the Middle East Sports Industry Association.
In addition to his work with Oman Sail, since 2022 Joe and his team have worked closely with Ministry of Culture, Sport & Youth to shape Oman’s major events strategy, leading the delivery of the governments investment in the bidding and staging of major international sporting events.
A huge advocate for the role of sport in society and for major events unique ability to drive policy change, create incredible memories across a wide range of communities and sustain a healthy sporting eco system. Joe’s role liaises with all key stakeholders including government ministries, venues, rights holders, investors, private sector operators, broadcast and commercial partners to ensure Oman will deliver on its ambition to be a world class venue for major events.
Joe Rafferty is the Director of Events at Oman Sail, a government owned organisation tasked with rekindling Oman’s maritime eminence and creating opportunities for the nation’s youth. Since joining Oman Sail in 2018, Joe has led the Event division of Oman Sail where his highly Omanised team have overseen the successful bidding and staging of seven world championship events, two Olympic qualification events and a variety of mass participation projects supporting the sport and adventure tourism sector. In 2021 Oman Sail delivered 3 World Championship and 3 Asian Championship sailing events in 11 weeks, leading to the team being recognised as the ‘Best Event Organiser’ by the Middle East Sports Industry Association.
In addition to his work with Oman Sail, since 2022 Joe and his team have worked closely with Ministry of Culture, Sport & Youth to shape Oman’s major events strategy, leading the delivery of the governments investment in the bidding and staging of major international sporting events.
A huge advocate for the role of sport in society and for major events unique ability to drive policy change, create incredible memories across a wide range of communities and sustain a healthy sporting eco system. Joe’s role liaises with all key stakeholders including government ministries, venues, rights holders, investors, private sector operators, broadcast and commercial partners to ensure Oman will deliver on its ambition to be a world class venue for major events.
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TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR STADIUM
By hosting this event in London, MESIF links the Middle East sports sector with leading international partners and solution providers. By harnessing expertise from established markets in Europe and globally the MENA region can draw on the industry's foremost experts and technologies to achieve their ambitious sport agendas.
MESIF London will be hosted at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, one of Europe’s most advanced sporting venues. The stadium has quickly established itself as a global destination for major sporting events, NFL fixtures, concerts and international experiences.
With its world-class hospitality spaces, premium networking environments and cutting-edge infrastructure, the home of Tottenham FC provides the ideal setting for high-level dialogue, investment discussions and deal- making.
MESIF LONDON 2025 HIGHLIGHTS
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