This year’s event brings together senior leaders from across global sport, culture, government, and major event delivery to explore the theme “Getting on with the Business of Events” – practical look at how cities and organisers are delivering impact, investment and innovation in a changing world.
A world-class speaker programme
The completed programme features influential figures shaping the future of major events, including:
- Uğur Erdener, President, SportAccord; Honorary President, World Archery; Honorary Member, International Olympic Committee
- Sheikha Asmaa Thani Al-Thani, Director of Marketing & International Cooperation Sector, Qatar Olympic Committee
- Basim K. Ibrahim, Sport Sector Director, Ministry of Investment, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Harvey Goldsmith CBE, Promoter, Artiste Management Productions Ltd
- Sarah Massey, Managing Director, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
- Rob Stull, President, UIPM
- Kay Morrison, Chief Executive, Glasgow Life
- Rob Dickson, Director of Industry and Events, VisitScotland
- Phil Batty OBE, CEO, Glasgow 2026
They are joined by senior representatives from the International Olympic Committee, Commonwealth Sport, Milano Cortina 2026, and many more.
The full final line-up is available at www.hostcity.com.
Speaking ahead of the event, Conference Director Ben Avison said: “We are greatly honoured to welcome such an amazing line up of speakers from all over the world to this must-attend conference in the great city of Glasgow, Scotland.”
Billy Garrett Director of Culture, Tourism and Events at Glasgow Life said: “We’re committed to further enhancing the global reputation that Glasgow and Scotland have built up over many years as expert, trusted and welcoming hosts of events of all types so we maximise the positive economic and social impact to our city and country.
“Partnership working is absolutely vital to achieving that, and Host City provides an important platform for collaboration by bringing together influential industry professionals and decision-makers to share information, insights and ideas. This year’s dynamic programme and inspirational line-up of speakers will, I’m sure, be invaluable in helping us shape and realise our collective vision for world-class events.”
Rob Dickson, Director of Industry and Events at VisitScotland, said: “Events are not only vital for fostering connections and innovation, but they also play a crucial role in strengthening our communities and driving economic growth. Host City 2025 is the ideal platform for delegates from sport, cultural and business events to come together and explore the issues and trends facing the industry. With an outstanding line-up of speakers, we’re set for two days of inspiring conversations and fresh ideas. I look forward to welcoming everyone to Glasgow in just under two weeks.”
Host City is delivered with the support of Global Presenting Partners and Hosts, Glasgow Life and EventScotland, part of VisitScotland.
Media Contact
Ben Avison (ben.avison@hostcity.com)
About Host City
Host City is the event and media brand that connects the owners, hosts and organisers of major events. Through its conference, exhibition, awards and online publishing platforms, Host City shares best practice within the international community of international sports, business and cultural events. Host City events are renowned for the highest level of speakers, content and networking.
About Glasgow Life
Glasgow Life is a charity working for the benefit of the people of Glasgow. We believe everyone deserves a great Glasgow life and we find innovative ways to make this happen across the city’s diverse communities.
Our programmes, experiences and events range from grassroots community activities to large-scale cultural, artistic and sporting events which present Glasgow on an international stage.
Our work is designed to promote inclusion, happiness and health, as well as support the city’s visitor economy, in order to enhance Glasgow’s mental, physical and economic wellbeing.
About EventScotland
EventScotland, part of VisitScotland – the national tourism and events organisation for Scotland, works to make the destination the perfect stage for events by securing and supporting an exciting portfolio of sporting and cultural events.
It provides funding opportunities and access to resources and information to develop the industry. By raising Scotland’s profile as a leading events destination, we hope to attract more visitors to our shores.
It supports the delivery of Scotland’s National Events Strategy 2024-2035 which aims to build on the events industry’s many achievements to date.
The strategy refresh has been shaped by, Scottish Government, VisitScotland’s Industry and Events Directorate, Scotland’s Events Industry Advisory Group (EIAG), Local Authorities, COSLA, Trade Union representatives, and those who responded to the consultation process.
Find out more about Scotland’s National Events Strategy 2024-2035.
For further information about funding programmes and latest event news:
- visit visitscotland.org/events
- follow @EventScotNews on x.com
- follow EventScotland on linkedin.com