The Sports Tomorrow Congress is set to return with its 2026 edition, taking center stage in the vibrant city of Barcelona on March 2. Organized by the Barça Innovation Hub (BIHUB), this premier sports-innovation conference is an annual gathering that attracts a diverse array of R&D and technology experts from around the globe. The focus this year is encapsulated in the tagline “Tech your Edge,” which opens doors to discussions on how technology serves as a pivotal tool in enhancing the uniqueness of each sports institution. This theme emphasizes the multifaceted ways in which organizations are evolving their sports programs and business practices to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape.
At the heart of the event is FC Barcelona, a club steeped in over 125 years of rich history. The congress will leverage this legacy as it explores the intersection of identity, tradition, and innovation. Attendees will gain insights into how Barcelona continues to adapt and innovate, shaping the future of sports through its commitment to transformation.
Inclusivity for Professionals in Sports
The congress aims to be accessible to a broad audience. Professionals from various sports-related fields are encouraged to attend, either in person—through invitation-only access—or virtually, with digital passes now available through the congress website. This flexibility allows for a wider reach, enabling more minds to engage in critical conversations about the future of sports and technology.
Part of a Larger Ecosystem
In an exciting twist, this year’s Sports Tomorrow Congress is again integrated into the framework of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, the largest connectivity event globally. This collaboration, now in its fourth year, underscores the strategic alliance between FC Barcelona and the GSMA, the premier global organization dedicated to the mobile ecosystem. This partnership fosters innovation aimed at creating positive business environments and driving social change.
Furthermore, the Barça Innovation Hub will showcase its initiatives at 4YFN (4 Years From Now)—a designated platform within MWC for start-ups. This opportunity allows BIHUB-sponsored start-ups to present their innovative projects to a global audience, fostering collaboration and potential partnerships. In parallel, BIHUB is working with GSMA Foundry, the innovation arm of GSMA, to co-develop future-focused projects.
Exciting New Initiatives: The Talent Arena Hackathon
One of the standout features this year is BIHUB’s involvement in the Talent Arena Hackathon at MWC, branded as “More than a Hack.” This innovative competition is tailored for data-analytics professionals, who will tackle a challenge using FC Barcelona’s extensive performance data. This initiative not only nurtures talent but also showcases the critical role of data analysis in shaping sports performance and strategy.
BIHUB on the Global Stage: MWC Doha
The significance of BIHUB extends beyond Barcelona, as it is also present at the Mobile World Congress taking place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center in Qatar. Recently, BIHUB Director Albert Mundet participated in a session discussing how FC Barcelona is leveraging AI, data, and innovative approaches to enhance performance, improve fan engagement, and promote sustainability in sports.
During MWC Doha, BIHUB was represented by a portfolio of exciting start-ups including Omniscope, Made of Genes, Onalabs, Celebreak, Adspective, Riterz, and Metrica. These ventures exemplify the progressive spirit that BIHUB fosters, showcasing a range of innovative solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of the sports industry.