World IP Day 2026: Driving innovation and growth in sports

A workshop marking World Intellectual Property (IP) Day 2026, under the theme “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate”, opened today in Ebene, bringing together key stakeholders to examine the role of intellectual property in driving innovation and growth in the sports sector.

An initiative of the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC), the workshop explores athletes’ use of IP to protect their ideas, brand growth through trademark strategies, the protection and commercialisation of technological breakthroughs, and the creation of lasting value for fans and communities by sports organisations.

Speaking at the opening, the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, dwelt on the importance of IP in protecting creativity and supporting innovation in sports.

Highlighting Mauritius’ ranking of 53rd in the Global Innovation Index out of 139 economies globally, the Minister called for continued efforts to strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem. He also encouraged greater use of patents and increased research and publication to support national development.

Minister Sukon further stressed the need for stronger collaboration with the MRIC to consolidate the innovation framework and promote a culture of protecting intellectual property.

Also present, the Australian High Commissioner to Mauritius, Ms Kate Chamley, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Mauritius, particularly in the digital economy and supporting efforts to protect and nurture innovation.

The MRIC Chairman, Dr Khemduth Singh Angateeah, and the Executive Director, Prof Teesan Bahorun, underscored the imperative to harness intellectual property to drive growth and position Mauritius as a leader in sports innovation through research and technology.

The World Intellectual Property Organization observes World IP Day annually on 26 April, underscoring the role of intellectual property rights in driving innovation in sports, from equipment and technology to branding and design, while also supporting economic growth, job creation and enhanced sporting experiences worldwide.

08 June 2026

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Topics: Sports, Innovation