1st Cracovia Congress of Sports Law and Sociology of Sport
ISG16 April 2025
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On 10–11 April 2025, the 1st Cracow Congress of Sports Law and Sociology of Sport took place at Cracovia Stadium in Kraków. This interdisciplinary event brought together representatives of the legal, academic, and sports communities to explore contemporary challenges in sports law and the social dimension of sport in Poland and across Europe. The Institute for Sport Governance (ISG) was proud to act as an honorary patron of the congress, represented on site by Rafał Kaszubski, our expert in CSR.
Sports law, arbitration, and safety at mass events
The first day of the congress focused on key issues in sports law, including sports justice, arbitration mechanisms, contract termination by athletes, and legal reforms related to the safety of mass events. Renowned speakers such as Prof. Sławomir Fundowicz, Prof. Mariusz Załucki, and Dr. Mateusz Dróżdż – the president of Cracovia, addressed the complexity of legal disputes in sports and called for systemic improvements to strengthen the protection of participants and institutions in the sports ecosystem.
Sport as a social phenomenon – identity, memory, and the future of football
The second day shifted focus to sociology of sport, with particular emphasis on football as a cultural and social phenomenon. Scholars including Prof. Przemysław Nosal, Dr. Natalia Organista, and Prof. Radosław Kossakowski examined the identity of football fans, the historical transformations of clubs after 1989, gender experiences in elite women’s football, and the global-local dynamics of football structures such as the Super League.
A meaningful conversation about CSR and Cracovia’s social engagement
During the congress, Rafał Kaszubski (ISG) had the pleasure of engaging in a thoughtful conversation with Marzena Młynarczyk-Warwas, CSR coordinator and spokesperson for Cracovia football club. The discussion focused on the club’s recent progress in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and explored future opportunities for collaboration with ISG in strengthening community engagement and social impact.
“We’re impressed by how far Cracovia has come in its CSR efforts. It’s clear the club values social responsibility, and we were happy to share our expertise and ideas to further expand their impact. We’re optimistic that this is just the beginning of a meaningful partnership,” said Rafał Kaszubski.
ISG supports knowledge exchange and sport’s role in society
As a partner and patron of the event, the Institute for Sport Governance proudly supports initiatives that bridge academic knowledge, practical solutions, and social responsibility in sport. The congress in Kraków confirmed that the conversation around sport must extend beyond results – it must also address values, accountability, and the broader role of sport in society.
We thank the organisers for the invitation and congratulate them on hosting a high-level, inspiring, and professionally executed event.
