I write with heartfelt gratitude following the extraordinary privilege of attending the Jubilee of Sport Conference 2025 at the Vatican. It was a sacred honour to be present for such a meaningful and insightful gathering, and I extend my sincere congratulations to our hosts at the Vatican for a conference marked by profound wisdom, warmth, and gracious hospitality.

His Holiness Pope Leo’s address was deeply moving and spiritually enriching. His words illuminated the divine potential of sport as a powerful instrument for the betterment of individual lives and the healing of communities. Bishop-elect Christopher Hughes and I were especially inspired by his emphasis on sport as a potential means of social transformation, peace-building, and international solidarity. These principles echo the heart of the Gospel and the call to love and serve one another.

We were further encouraged by the opportunity to meet with Dr. Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, and to explore future initiatives together. It was also a great honour to be invited by Professor Keim, UNESCO Chair for Sport, Development, Peace, and Olympic Education, to affirm our support for the Paris 2024 Declaration on Olympic Education, Olympic Values, and Sport for Development and Peace.

Paris 2024 Declaration on Olympic Education, Olympic Values and Sport, Development and Peace (SDP)

The Paris 2024 Declaration on Olympic Education, Olympic Values, and Sport, Development and Peace (SDP) is a global call to action led by the National Pierre de Coubertin Committees of South Africa and France, the Pierre de Coubertin Family Association, and the UNESCO Chair for Sport, Development, Peace and Olympic Education.

This declaration highlights the power of sport as a transformative force for peace, education, and sustainable development. It emphasizes values rooted in Olympism and the Paralympic spirit, calling for:

• Stronger global partnerships across governments, civil society, sport organizations, and educational institutions.
• Broader engagement of youth from early childhood to university level in sport and peace-building initiatives.
• The promotion of inner peace, inclusion, health, and well-being through sport in urban and community spaces.
• Greater recognition of sports’ role in conflict mediation, cultural exchange, and as a tool to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Importantly, the Declaration urges continued investment in Olympic education, research, and cross-cultural collaboration, with a clear focus on integrating perspectives from both the Global South and North.