The International Olympic Case Study Competition (CSC) has been a leading platform for students to tackle current strategic management challenges in international sport. Organised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in collaboration with the Olympic Studies Centre and universities worldwide, the competition aims to provide a unique problem-based learning experience for students. **Benefits for Students**
• Gain real-world experience in strategic management
• Develop innovative solutions to current sports management issues
• Compete against peers from other countries
• Step beyond the walls of their universities and gain international insights
• Build a network of global sport leaders and experts
**International Perspective**
The CSC is designed to provide students with an international perspective, allowing them to tackle challenges that international sports organisations are facing. This platform enables students to develop solutions that are tailored to the needs of the Olympic Movement. **Examples of Successful Teams**
- Lang School of Business and Economics – University of Guelph (Canada): Undergraduate champions, winning the 2024/2025 competition
- Universidad Europea de Madrid (Spain): Master’s category runner-up
- Capital University of Physical Education and Sports (PR China): Master’s category third place winner
**Expert Insights**
“…The international aspect of the programme allows students to step beyond the walls of their universities and compete against peers from other countries.” — Maria Bogner, Head of the Olympic Studies Centre
“…This is a brilliant, mutually beneficial way to gain insight into how future fans and sports leaders think and their vision for tackling some of the most pressing challenges that the Olympic Movement faces.” — Mariya Kutmanova, IOC Head of Brand Growth
**Winning Strategies**
• Develop a deep understanding of the Olympic Movement and its challenges
• Conduct thorough research and analysis of current sports management issues
• Create innovative and effective solutions to tackle these challenges
• Communicate your ideas clearly and persuasively
To win the competition, teams must demonstrate a clear understanding of the Olympic Movement and its challenges, as well as the ability to develop innovative solutions that tackle these challenges.
The winning team from the University of Guelph, for example, shared their approach to tackling the challenges of the Olympic Movement.
“What started as a classroom challenge turned into something far bigger than we ever imagined,” they said.
“Competing in the International Olympic Case Study Competition and facing teams from around the world was both humbling and inspiring. This experience pushed our team to think critically, creatively and strategically about the future of international sport.