Webinar invitation: Referees, guardians of values in sport

Too often, the role of referees is reduced to simply managing a match. Yet ensuring that the rules are followed is an essential part of the success of any sporting event.

Today, the growing pressure on referees threatens not only their safety, but also the very future of sport. Despite their indispensable role, referees are absent from the decision-making bodies and sports policies that regulate competitions.

This webinar will be an opportunity to reflect on:

The growing pressure on referees and the associated risks

The need for direct involvement of referees in decision-making processes

The importance of an educational perspective for new generations of athletes

The CREC (Culture, Research and Education Commission) of Panathlon International has organised its 3rd webinar on this topic.

The President of the CREC (Culture, Research and Education Commission), Antonio Bramante, will welcome the speakers:

Gwenda Stevens, President of the International Federation of Referees in Sport

Paul Wylleman, Professor of Sports Psychology at the VUB (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)

At the end of the debate, Paul Standaert, President of the District Belgium of Panathlon International, will offer further reflections on the importance of promoting respect for referees as part of PI's ethical vision.

Date: 9 October 2025

Time: 17:00 CET

Platform: Zoom

Join the webinar: http://bit.ly/webinarseries-pi 

A crucial issue, which affects the credibility and sustainability of sport, will be at the centre of our discussion.

We look forward to seeing you there!