Tomorrow’s Game, Today’s Essence: Europe's central role in innovating football

Grace Ahrens is the Executive Director of Women in Soccer, an organization committed to creating opportunities for women and people with underrepresented gender identities who work (or want to work) in soccer. Growing up in Mexico and with over 10 years of experience in workforce development, branding and media, she brings a deep understanding of diversity and expertise in driving inclusive solutions.

In his role as CMO and SVP of Global Merchandising, Davis is responsible for New Balance’s product and demand creation initiatives around the globe to maximize the brand’s impact with a consumer first vision through elevated branding vision, world-class partnerships and articulated product distribution strategies. Chris David is recognized by Forbes as one of the Most Influential CMO, ranking 12th in 2023, 8th in 2024, and 2nd in 2025.

Nadine Kessler is the current Managing Director of Women’s Football at UEFA and a former German international midfield player. As the Managing Director of Women’s Football, Nadine is responsible for the strategic direction of the sport and leads all women’s competitions at European level as well as all projects aiming to develop the women’s game. In 2014, Nadine a standout player, was named the winner of the FIFA World Player of the year and UEFA Best Women’s Player in Europe award.

During a 14-year professional career, Lise Klaveness earned 73 caps for Norway and finished as a runner-up at UEFA Women’s EURO 2005. She also helped Swedish club Umeå FC reach the 2007 UEFA Women’s Cup final. While playing, she earned a master’s degree in law, subsequently working as an assistant judge in the Oslo district court and as a special adviser to Norway’s central bank.A return to football came in 2018 when Klaveness was named technical director at the Football Association of Norway (NFF).

Rafael Louzán Abal has been President of the RFEF since December 2024, after a decade leading the Royal Galician Football Federation. Known for his expertise in sports management, he drove the modernization and digital transformation of the Galician federation, significantly increasing its asset value. Earlier in his career, Louzán worked in public administration, bringing governance experience to his leadership in Spanish football.

Stephen Pagliuca is an American private equity investor, co-chairman of Bain Capital, and owner of Atalanta B.C. of Italian Serie A association football league. He is also former co-owner of the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA).