SFS24: All the Women of the Football Industry

The seventh edition of the SFS hosted a wide range of women in top roles within the football industry. Journalists, communicators, athletes, and managers took the stage over the two-day event, held on November 19 and 20, at one of the most important showcases in the world.

The More Women in Football panel – which we have already discussed – was a great success, thanks to internationally renowned figures. Budreya Faisal, President of Banaat F.C, Zoe Johnson, Managing Director of Brighton & Hove Albion FC (Women’s & Girls), and Morgan Brennan, Head of UK and Europe at INDIVISA, addressed the delicate issue of the gender gap within the football industry. By sharing their professional and personal experiences, they also opened up space for various social and political reflections. For instance, in a landscape already lacking female representation, some geopolitical areas further limit women’s ability to act.

Among the institutional speakers, on the second day, Elena Palazzo, Lazio Region’s Councillor for Tourism, Environment, Sports, Energy Transition, and Sustainability, illustrated the regional sports law proposal for Lazio, redefined in light of today’s societal developments. This marks a historic turning point for a region that still operates on a twenty-year-old, outdated framework.

“The event provided a fantastic opportunity to connect with peers from across the game, exchange valuable insights, and explore how football can drive positive change. It was an inspiring and impactful two days. I’m already looking forward to next year!” stated Jennifer Morris, Director of the City Football Leadership Institute, one of the most prominent educational institutions in Europe focused on football business training.

When it comes to public affairs and strategic communication, Francesca Buttara deserves a mention. She moderated the panel on the impact of sports tourism for major events alongside Hon. Gianluca Caramanna and Rome’s Councillor Alessandro Onorato.

Among the pillars of this edition were the tech and entertainment sectors. Who better than Carolina Tha (Samba Digital) and Paola Marinone (BuzzMyVideos) to delve into these topics? The Globalization of Football: How Football is Expanding in New Markets panel focused on the digital dynamics transforming the football industry, both in terms of strategic applications and monetization. Speaking about the SFS, Marinone emphasized: “All roads in football lead to Rome. SFS 24 was a fantastic crossroads of experiences and professionals. An event not to be missed”.

Finally, sustainability also played a central role during these two days. Anna Sagarra (Director of Global Projects at Real Betis), Gaia Pretner (Head of Sustainability at ECA), and Cristiana Pace (CEO of Enovation Consulting) outlined the new sustainability roadmap for the football industry. It is not only a matter of responsibility but also a real opportunity for change, as well as a chance to meet and respond to the demands of fans and younger generations.

To conclude, click here to discover the speakers who attended the Stadio Olimpico.

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