Paris, 06 July (H.S.): A delegation of more than 20 members from the Sports Committee of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) recently visited Paris and Marseille in France to study successful models in sports business, sports governance, sports infrastructure, and Olympic legacy with the objective of drawing valuable lessons for the development of sports in India. The visit was organised in collaboration with Business France.

According to a FICCI statement issued on Monday, the delegation toured the historic Vélodrome Stadium in Marseille, where members were briefed on the effective utilisation of sports infrastructure and its long-term operational model. Established in 1937, the stadium is used not only for football matches but also for concerts and cultural events after the sports season. The delegation also examined systems designed to enhance the overall spectator experience and improve digital engagement throughout the day.

The Consul General of India in Marseille welcomed the delegation and introduced members to local industries and institutions involved in preparations for the 2030 Winter Olympic Games.

The delegation also visited the sailing venue of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and Marseille's renowned aquatic centre. During these visits, experts explained how Olympic sports facilities can continue to be utilised efficiently for commercial purposes and public benefit long after the conclusion of the Games.

In Paris, the delegation participated in a conference on international sporting events. Cynthia Regulski, a senior official at Business France, said it was a matter of pride for France to share the experience and legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with other countries.

A special session on opportunities for India was chaired by Sanjay Adesara, Co-Chair of the FICCI Sports Committee and Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline. He said India is steadily progressing towards becoming a global sporting powerhouse and aims to host major international sporting events in the future. He added that France's experience would prove highly valuable for India while opening new avenues for long-term cooperation between the two countries.

Siddharth Raman, Chief Executive Officer of Sports Interactive, said the Paris Olympics demonstrated how a city's culture, heritage and sporting excellence could be seamlessly integrated to create a world-class event. He noted that such events leave lasting memories for generations, making them truly successful.

During the visit, the delegation also held discussions with officials from the Paris City Administration, Stade de France, the National Institute of Sport, Expertise and Performance (INSEP), and several organisations associated with the sports industry.

Based on the insights gained during the visit, the FICCI Sports Committee has decided to prepare a white paper titled France's Olympic Legacy: Key Lessons for India. The document will be shared with the government and stakeholders in the sports sector to help strengthen sports infrastructure, sports management, and preparations for hosting major international sporting events in India.

FICCI also announced that, in collaboration with Business France, it will host a French sports delegation during its Annual Sports Conference in November 2026 to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the sports sector.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar