Were One for All: The 6th World Congress of Sport Physiotherapy

Why It Matters

The congress sets global standards for sports physiotherapy, driving consistent care for athletes and expanding the profession’s role in physical‑activity promotion worldwide.

Key Takeaways

• 42 speakers from 21 countries showcase global expertise
• IFSPT becomes ISEPA after completing the Sports Comp project
• Updated competencies address AI, tech, and inclusion
• Pre‑conference course adds two days of intensive training

Pulse Analysis

The 6th World Congress of Sport Physiotherapy marks a milestone for the global physiotherapy community, gathering over 800 participants in Bern’s state‑of‑the‑art Bernexpo venue. By revisiting the city that hosted the inaugural 2015 meeting, the congress underscores a decade of growth, with a scientific programme approved by the British Journal of Sports Medicine. Attendees will benefit from a diverse lineup of 42 speakers representing 21 countries, reflecting the field’s expanding geographic reach and commitment to cross‑border collaboration.

A central focus of WCSPT 2026 is the rollout of the updated International Sports Physiotherapy Competencies, a product of the three‑year Erasmus+ Sports Comp partnership. These standards incorporate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data‑driven injury prevention tools, and tele‑rehabilitation platforms, while emphasizing equity, diversity, and inclusion. The rebranding of IFSPT to the International Sports and Exercise Physiotherapy Association (ISEPA) signals a broader remit that embraces both sport and exercise contexts, positioning the organization as a leading voice in policy and education.

For practitioners and industry stakeholders, the congress offers tangible value: a two‑day pre‑conference course provides intensive skill‑building, and the updated competencies serve as a benchmark for curricula, certification, and clinical practice worldwide. As physical activity promotion becomes a public‑health priority, the standards set at WCSPT will influence insurance reimbursement, research funding, and interdisciplinary team dynamics, ultimately elevating athlete care and expanding career pathways for sports physiotherapists.