iSportConnect Masterclass in Lausanne Explores Turning Event Buzz into Year-Round Digital Growth
3 hours ago
Lausanne hosted the iSportConnect Masterclass “From Event to Everyday: Growing Digital Engagement & Revenue”, bringing together international sports leaders, digital strategists, and rights holders to explore how organisations can convert one-off events into sustained engagement and revenue streams.
The day began with registration and networking, allowing delegates to connect over coffee and exchange early insights. This was followed by welcome remarks, introducing the themes of the Masterclass and setting the tone for discussions on digital strategy, fan engagement, and revenue generation.
The first major session featured a breakout discussion on converting digital engagement into sustainable revenue. Delegates shared their experiences in keeping fans connected between major events and explored approaches to creating direct-to-consumer propositions and digital sponsorship inventories that appeal to brands without overwhelming audiences.
After a networking coffee break, the Masterclass continued with a fireside chat on the role of influencer marketing, led by Alex Fuller, Head of Agency Growth – Sports & Entertainment at The Multiple Agency. He highlighted how influencers are reshaping fan engagement in sport:
“For my first speaking event, I couldn’t have asked for a more incredible location. It was so great to share thoughts on the role influencer marketing can play in growing digital engagement and to hear brilliant perspectives from others in the room.”
A panel discussion on digital integration as a driver of revenue followed, featuring Alan Fagan (Eurovision Sport), Abigail Cockayne (InCrowd), Shifa Garg (Spectatr.ai), and Travis Black (Allianz). The panel emphasised how connecting digital content, data, and sponsorship inventory can generate incremental revenue while providing authentic engagement opportunities for fans.
Key Takeaways from the Masterclass
From influencer marketing to sponsorship measurement, participants stressed the centrality of digital in today’s sports business landscape:
–Caroline Frei, Swiss Equestrian: “Great insights for Swiss Equestrian and an inspiring exchange on the topic From Event to Everyday – Growing Digital Engagement & Revenue in Lausanne. A big thank you to iSportConnect for organizing this Masterclass and to ANOC for hosting us.”
–Adelia Faizulina, Brand Developer, Digital Strategist, PMP: “Yesterday, digital was an intern’s hobby. Today, it’s a boardroom strategy. Digital is no longer a dessert. It’s the main course. Sometimes even the champagne.”
–European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR): “Great experience for EPCR in Lausanne – our home city – at the Masterclass organised by iSportConnect and hosted by ANOC. Always a privilege to exchange ideas and keep building together across the international sport community.”
–Michele Tiozzo, CEO, Europe Triathlon: “My key takeaways: Know your audience — the foundation for building meaningful engagement. In sponsorship, if you can’t measure it, don’t take it. Digital growth isn’t just about reach, it’s about creating year-round, authentic touchpoints with fans.”
–Esteban Gonzalez, 3×3 Digital Content Senior Manager, FIBA: “Great to meet peers and exchange ideas on how to unlock new revenue streams and build meaningful, year-round digital engagement. The conversations in Lausanne underlined a clear truth: digital is no longer optional in sport — it’s central to growth, fan engagement, and sustainable revenue.”
Looking Ahead
The Masterclass highlighted a clear reality: digital strategy is now central to sports business, not just an afterthought. From influencer marketing to digital integration and sponsorship measurement, delegates left with practical insights to create meaningful, year-round engagement while generating sustainable revenue. The day’s discussions reinforced the importance of consistency, relevance, and authenticity in connecting with fans in today’s fast-paced sports ecosystem.