The start of the 2025-2026 academic year marks a new chapter in the history of Johan Cruyff Institute, bringing together once again a new generation of students ready to turn their passion for sport into a professional career
At the beginning of every academic year, Johan Cruyff Institute renews its commitment to academic training in sport management. In 2025, the institution welcomes 110 new students from 34 countries, opening a new season of projects, experiences, and activities designed to connect academic knowledge with professional practice.
Kick-off 2025 in Barcelona: welcoming new students
The new academic year began with the Kick-off 2025 event in Barcelona, the official welcome for the new students of the Master in Sport Business Blended, the Master in Football Business in partnership with FC Barcelona, the Master’s Degree in Sports Management, and the Master in Sport Marketing and Management.
Kick-off 2025, held at the iconic Club Natació Barcelona, combined academic, sports, and team-building activities. Edgar Romero, Global Corporate Relations Manager at Johan Cruyff Institute, welcomed the students: “Make the most of every learning opportunity throughout this year: the experience goes beyond the classroom, and it is enriched through interaction with classmates from different nationalities, sports practice, and participation in real projects within the sports industry.”
Sports activities and networking at Kick-off 2025
The day continued with beach and water sports, including volleyball matches and paddle surfing sessions. The Kick-off concluded with an aperitif and a networking session, where students had the chance to get to know each other better and share their expectations for the academic year.
Kick-off 2025 in Barcelona. Explore more photos of the Johan Cruyff Institute Barcelona Kick-off here.
Opening Ceremony of the Master in Football Business in collaboration with FC Barcelona
The beginning of the new academic cycle also included the Opening Ceremony for students of the Master in Football Business in collaboration with FC Barcelona. The ceremony featured Nacho Mas-Bagà, Program Director and CEO of Girona FC, who highlighted: “This Master is a strategic platform to deepen knowledge in football management, develop key competencies, and build connections with the most relevant stakeholders in the industry. Every learning experience contributes to shaping a strong professional profile, prepared to lead in the sports sector.”
Visits to clubs and international events
Lukas Dorda, Associate Academic Director at Johan Cruyff Institute, welcomed the students and explained the structure of the academic cycle, which includes visits to some of the most renowned clubs and stadiums in Europe, as well as attendance at international sports industry events. The first class of the Master in Football Business was delivered by Sergi Vieta, Managing Director at SPORTFIVE Iberia and former General Manager of Granada CF.
A clear mission: educating leaders in the sports industry
This academic kick-off reflects the institution’s mission: to train leaders in the sports industry through an educational approach that combines theory, practice, and global vision. The 2025-2026 season represents a unique opportunity for students to fully develop their potential in an academic environment that inspires, motivates, and connects learning with the real practice of sport.
