International School Sport Federation moves headquarter to Lausanne

In a landmark decision, the International School Sport Federation (ISF) has relocated its global headquarters to Maison du Sport International in Lausanne, the Olympic capital.

This pivotal move, slated for January 2024, marks a strategic leap forward, aligning with Lausanne’s rich legacy of sporting excellence and innovation. Supported by the city and Canton of Vaud authorities, our new home is a testament to our commitment to youth empowerment and the collaborative spirit that defines the Olympic Movement. We look forward to a future where ISF and Lausanne together will foster a new generation of sporting talent and global citizens. 

Strategic Move for Global Impact 

After a storied 50-year history in Brussels, the ISF is poised to embark on a transformative journey from its new base at the Sport International House in Lausanne. This strategic relocation is the result of a forward-thinking decision by the ISF’s Management and Executive Committees and underscores the organization’s commitment to harnessing the potential of international sports federations for the betterment of school sports worldwide. 

Laurent Petrynka, ISF President, underscores the significance of this move: “Elevating the values of equality, respect, and fair play through school sports is more than a mission—it’s a passion that drives us. Lausanne represents a beacon of these ideals within the international sports community. This relocation is a declaration of our dedication to enriching the lives of young athletes across the globe.” 

Capitalizing on Lausanne’s Vibrant Sports Ecosystem 

Lausanne’s reputation as a hub for sports federations offers fertile ground for synergistic growth and enhanced opportunities. The ISF will tap into this vibrant ecosystem to foster deeper connections, elevate its profile within the international sports arena, and amplify its influence in shaping the future of school sports. 

Fortifying International Alliances 

Ahead of the relocation, the ISF has been actively forging partnerships, as evidenced by its participation in the recent IF Forum in Lausanne. At the forum, the ISF signed new Memorandums of Understanding with prominent federations such as the International Fencing Federation (FIE), United World Wrestling (UWW), and World Taekwondo (WT), reinforcing its commitment to elevating the operational standards of international school sports events. 

Since its inception in 1972, the ISF has been at the forefront of promoting school sports, touching the lives of students in over 200,000 schools across 134 member countries. Recognized by the International Olympic Committee since 1995, the ISF is dedicated to fostering a spirit of camaraderie and competition through its premier events, including the esteemed ISF Gymnasiade. Its mission extends beyond the playing field, striving to instill a culture of health, learning, and inclusivity among the youth of the world.