#USA #Hong Kong #Phygital Sports #World Phygital Community #Advisory Council

The Future of Phygital Sports: A New Advisory Council Launched

In an exciting development for the world of competitive sports, the World Phygital Community (WPC) has announced the establishment of its inaugural Advisory Council. This international assembly comprises distinguished leaders from the realms of sports, innovation, and policy. Their mission is crucial: to design a global strategy aimed at nurturing the burgeoning field of phygital sports, which seamlessly blends physical athleticism with digital engagement.

The announcement was made on November 26, 2025, in Hong Kong, where the WPC, the global governing body for phygital sports, emphasized the significance of this council in shaping the future landscape of sports. Dan Merkley, Chairperson and Managing Director of WPC, shared, "Phygital sports is more than just a new sport; it is a transformative way for individuals globally to connect through competition." He further highlighted the council's role in bridging traditional sports with digital advancements, aiming to foster local innovations while unlocking global opportunities.

Composition and Expertise

The founding members of this advisory council bring a wealth of experience and diverse expertise to the table. They have been selected for their vast knowledge ranging from Olympic event management to digital transformation, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the landscape.

Key Members:

• - Bernt Erik Bjontegard: A former NASA rocket scientist and a former executive at Qualcomm, Bjontegard has led groundbreaking projects in space technology and mobile communications. He is the founder of Spark Compass, a platform that enhances sports engagement through augmented reality and the Internet of Things. His extensive partnerships with tech giants like Apple and IBM further solidify his credentials in bridging digital innovation with sports.

• - David Feng Xintao: With a rich background in international communications and event management, Xintao has played a pivotal role in promoting the Olympic Movement. His previous positions include being the Protocol, Event and Hospitality Manager at the International Olympic Committee (IOC), where he oversaw hospitality programs for several Olympic Games.

• - Francline Fonderson: The founder and president of the Cameroon Association for Technology and Cultural Exchange, Fonderson is renowned for connecting traditional sports with digital competition, creating sustainable pathways for young athletes and gamers in Central and West Africa.

• - Jorge O'Ryan Schutz: Having a multifaceted career in diplomacy and sports management, Schutz's experience ranges from being a former professional basketball player to serving as the Chilean ambassador in Germany. His role today includes overseeing international development and guiding innovation in the sport.

Focus Areas of the Council

The advisory council will address four key focal points: raising awareness of WPC initiatives, identifying new market opportunities, consulting on commercial ventures, and aiding in the development of regulatory standards to ensure sustainable growth. The group will convene regularly with WPC leadership, publicly sharing their findings to maintain transparency and accountability within the phygital movement.

With the formation of this council, WPC is fostering collaboration among leading figures who share a unified vision for the future of sports—a vision that blends physical capabilities with digital advancements, facilitating new avenues for athletes and organizations worldwide.

Conclusion

The WPC’s commitment to promoting phygital sports worldwide aims to unite global communities through both physical and digital competitions. This initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to sports, acknowledging the growing influence of technology within competitive environments. As the Games of the Future loom on the horizon, phygital sports are set to redefine boundaries and create unique global sporting experiences that could engage audiences like never before.

For more about the WPC and upcoming events, visit their official website or stay tuned for updates regarding the Games of the Future, an event designed to showcase this innovative sport.