UIPM President calls for Olympic movement to remain a force for good during EOA Congress speech

As a highlight of the 6th European Olympic Academies Congress held in Olympia (GRE) from September 24-26, UIPM President Dr Klaus Schormann delivered an impactful speech entitled 'The Olympic Program in the Context of Global Societal Transformation'.

President Dr Schormann underlined how modern sport must evolve alongside the fast-paced changes in today’s world, particularly addressing the needs and preferences of younger generations, while respecting cultural traditions and diversity.

He also emphasised the growing importance of environmental sustainability in sport, stressing the significant impact of climate change and the need for action within the sporting community. Dr Schormann noted that addressing environmental concerns goes hand in hand with tackling health issues, especially among the youth, who are increasingly disengaged from physical activity and more focused on digital entertainment like mobile phones and gaming consoles.

Reflecting on his leadership of UIPM, Dr Schormann shared insights on how Modern Pentathlon, a sport with a deep Olympic legacy since 1912, has evolved by incorporating new disciplines and sustainability efforts to resonate with younger audiences and to be safer and more sustainable.

He underlined the importance of continuously modernising the Olympic Program to mirror societal values, promote social inclusion, embrace technological advancements, and adapt to the changing interests of youth, as seen with the introduction of numerous urban sports to the Olympic Games – a trend that Modern Pentathlon will follow with the integration of Obstacle starting in Los Angeles 2028.

In conclusion, President Dr Schormann called for the Olympic Movement to remain a powerful force for good, addressing global challenges such as climate change and public health while ensuring that sport continues to unite and inspire future generations.

During the EOA Congress, held in the original home of the Olympic Games, UIPM President Dr Schormann planted an olive tree alongside European Olympic Committees (EOC) President Spyros Capralos and International Olympic Academy (IOA) President Isidoros Kouvelos as a symbol of the legacy of Modern Pentathlon and in memory of Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who introduced the sport to the Olympics in 1912. The tree was planted a short distance from Coubertin's grave.

A tree had been planted on this site many years ago but was sadly destroyed by a forest fire. The replanting of the tree (as pictured above) represents not only the enduring heritage of Modern Pentathlon but also its deep historical connection to the Ancient Olympic Games, where in 708 BC, Lampis of Sparta became the first Olympic champion in Pentathlon.