World Athletics and the World Federation of Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration. The agreement seeks to consolidate existing work streams involving athletic shoe regulation.
The MOU also sets out areas for future cooperation such as getting more kids active and into athletics, as well as enhancing the presentation and the sustainable development of the sport for the benefit of the sport, the athletes, and the industry.
Robbert de Kock, President and CEO of the WFSGI, said “The collaboration of WA and the sporting goods industry is invaluable for athletes and the industry alike, and ultimately the athletic sport disciplines will benefit.
“Sport equipment is an inseparable part of any sport in order for it to be practiced. To foresee and exchange early on rules and regulation changes secures a fair and level playing field for all stakeholders involved.”
He continued “As the sport and sports equipment evolves, rules and regulations play an essential role in sport development. We thank WA for their trust and collaboration. The industry is committed to promote and develop sport at large. This is part of our DNA and we look forward to building a stronger future for athletic sports and the brands involved.”
Jon Ridgeon, CEO of World Athletics, said “We have a very productive relationship with the WFSGI, which is important as we set the future course for the sport, particularly when it comes to key areas of technical equipment, shoes and clothing.
“The sporting goods industry is a key commercial stakeholder in our sport and the better our cooperation is, the stronger our sport will be. This MOU marks a significant milestone in this collaboration and represents our commitment to continue building our relationship in the coming years.”
The WFSGI is the international industry body for the global sporting goods industry. As an independent not-for-profit association, the federation is home to over 280 direct members and 5,000 indirect members, including many of the largest names in the sporting goods industry. Collectively, the WFSGI membership is claimed to represent 70% of the global sporting goods industry turnover.
www.wfsgi.org
www.worldathletics.org
