The evolving dynamic between traditional sports and modern competition will be the focal point of the 9th Commonwealth Debate on Sport and Sustainable Development. This highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 26 March 2025, at the Commonwealth Secretariat’s headquarters in London. Running from 17:00 to 19:00 GMT, the debate will also be accessible virtually, allowing a global audience to participate.
The annual debate will explore the theme, ‘Preserving traditional games honours cultural identity but is a distraction from the future-focused demands of modern sports.’ Participants will engage in discussions on whether safeguarding traditional games maintains cultural heritage or whether the growing emphasis on modern sports is essential for international competitiveness and innovation.
Moderating the debate will be esteemed radio, TV, and podcast presenter Tolu ‘Lady T’ Adepegba. The event will commence with opening remarks from the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, alongside Dr. Chris Jenkins OBE, the President of Commonwealth Sport—formerly known as the Commonwealth Games Federation.
A Balanced Discourse on Traditional and Modern Sports
Two opposing teams will present their perspectives on the debate’s theme. The proponents will emphasize the role of traditional games in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening social cohesion, and fostering well-being. Conversely, the opposing team will argue that modern sports drive progress, enhance global competition, and create economic opportunities.
Leading the case for the motion will be Vincent M. John, Chairman of the Cultural Games Association UK, an organization dedicated to promoting traditional games primarily from Africa and the Caribbean. He will be joined by Stuart MacDonald, the founder-director of ICR Research, a leading UK-based consultancy specializing in the intersection of culture and education in international relations.
Also advocating for traditional sports will be Noora Virtanen, an international lacrosse player representing Finland and the Acting Head of Communications at Canada House. Completing the team will be Ranjit Singh, head coach of Wolverhampton Wrestling Club and a founding member of the British Kabaddi League. Their arguments will highlight how traditional games offer a unique link to cultural identity and community engagement.
On the opposing side, arguing against the motion, will be Chester King, President of the Esports Federation and Vice-President of the European Esports Federation. His perspective will emphasize the increasing relevance of esports in global sports and entertainment. Joining him will be British Paralympic track and field athlete Stef Reid, a former world champion and multiple-time Paralympic medalist who will argue for the role of modern sports in driving inclusion and competitive excellence.
Further strengthening this team’s argument will be Dr. Rory Summerley, Course Leader in Game Design and Development at London South Bank University, and Zoya Zia, Senior Impact and Evaluation Officer at Chance to Shine Cricket, a national charity that engages over 600,000 children annually. They will contend that the future of sports lies in innovation and adaptation to contemporary trends.
An Engaging and Interactive Event
Following the debate, attendees—both in-person and virtual—will have an opportunity to pose questions to the panelists. The event will conclude with independent adjudicators selecting a winning team based on the strength and persuasiveness of their arguments.
Organized in collaboration with Commonwealth Sport, the debate will mark the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, observed annually on 6 April. This discussion also precedes the Commonwealth Games, set to take place in Glasgow from 23 July to 2 August 2026, reinforcing the significance of this dialogue in shaping the future of sports across the Commonwealth.
The Intersection of Tradition and Progress in Sports
The debate takes place at a crucial time when sports organizations and governing bodies are navigating the balance between heritage and progress. While modern sports continue to shape global competitive landscapes, the preservation of traditional games remains vital for maintaining cultural diversity and fostering community engagement. The discussion will explore whether these two aspects of sports can coexist harmoniously and how they can complement each other to offer unique and valuable contributions to society.
This conversation aligns with broader initiatives within the Commonwealth. The recent launch of the Commonwealth Sport Declaration on Reconciliation and Partnership with Indigenous People at the 11th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting (11CSMM) in Paris highlights the importance of inclusivity and recognition of cultural heritage in the sporting world.
Each year, this debate serves as a platform for policymakers, government officials, diplomats, athletes, academics, and youth representatives to deliberate on pressing issues related to sports and sustainability. By fostering insightful discussions, the event contributes to shaping policies that uphold the values of cultural preservation while embracing the evolving nature of global sports competition.
