New AIBC ambassador: Samir Ceric
AIBC is pleased to welcome Samir Ceric as its latest ambassador, an influential figure in sports tech and blockchain, recognized for his pioneering role in digitalizing the sports industry. Ceric, who serves as COO of Blocksport AG, will bring his extensive expertise to AIBC Europe, where he will discuss the evolving intersection of sports and technology. His insights, drawn from years of experience in sports and digital innovation, are set to enrich this November’s conference, enhancing the event’s focus on the future of tech in the sports sector.
An Influential Voice in Sports Tech
Samir Ceric is no stranger to the worlds of sports and technology. As COO of Blocksport AG, a Swiss-based sports tech company, Ceric has championed the role of Web3 in creating fan engagement platforms that leverage blockchain to deepen connections between fans and sports properties. Blocksport works with clubs, leagues, and federations worldwide, helping them harness the potential of digital infrastructure for fan engagement and revenue generation. Ceric’s career has been driven by a passion for sports that extends beyond business; for him, sports are a way of life, a belief deeply woven into his work.
With a background as a former elite athlete and football club chairman, Ceric brings a wealth of knowledge and a practical understanding of sports dynamics. His dedication to connecting traditional sports with cutting-edge technology has led him to advocate for the adoption of digital innovations, such as blockchain and AI, within the sports sector. For Ceric, these technologies not only revolutionise how fans experience sports but also offer new revenue streams for teams and leagues by utilising data and fan engagement tools.
Speaking at AIBC Europe 2024
On November 12 at 14:05 in Malta, Ceric will deliver a keynote titled “Future of Sports & Tech: Web3, Big Brands & Their Respective Roles.” In this address, he will explore how traditional sports can intersect with blockchain, AI, and Web3 to create new opportunities for fan engagement and revenue. His focus will include how major global brands and telecom companies can play a pivotal role in this convergence, underscoring the growing importance of Web3 in enhancing fan experiences. Ceric’s vision emphasises that Web3 is not just a trend; it is a transformative tool for both fans and the sports industry.
Following his keynote, Ceric will also participate in two panel discussions. At 14:20, he will join a panel on “The Power of Data Ownership and Data Segmentation in Sports,” where he will delve into how data ownership allows sports entities to better understand their fans and personalise experiences. Then, at 14:40, he will speak on “Unlocking Web3 and Tech for Football,” examining how emerging technologies are shaping the future of the world’s most popular sport. These sessions promise to offer rich insights into the practical applications of tech in sports.
A Vision for the Future of Sports and Technology
Ceric’s work with Blocksport embodies his commitment to reshaping fan experiences through digital means. He believes that sports hold an unparalleled emotional connection for fans, a relationship that can be strengthened through Web3’s capabilities. “Data is the new gold,” Ceric often remarks, emphasising the importance of data in creating personalised fan experiences. By enabling fans to interact with their favourite teams through digital collectibles, memberships, and play-to-earn games, Web3 allows sports entities to engage fans in new, meaningful ways.
For Ceric, this is about more than technology; it’s about redefining the fan experience. He sees a future where fans are not just spectators but active participants in the sports ecosystem. The digitalization of sports through Web3 and blockchain brings fans closer to the heart of their favourite teams, creating a bridge between physical events and digital engagement. This transformation, according to Ceric, is essential for sports organisations aiming to meet the expectations of modern fans, especially younger generations who consume content digitally and demand interactive experiences.
Samir Ceric’s addition to AIBC as an ambassador and his presence at AIBC Europe 2024 mark a significant moment for the convergence of sports and technology. With his keynote and panel discussions, he will shed light on the future of sports tech, inspiring industry professionals to embrace the evolving digital landscape. As he takes the stage in Malta, Ceric’s insights are sure to resonate, reinforcing the transformative potential of Web3 for the global sports industry.
