Johan Cruyff Institute brings the 2025 academic year to a close with the graduation ceremonies of its sport management programs in Barcelona
As every year, the conclusion of an academic journey is reason for a special celebration. The long-awaited graduation ceremony for students of the Barcelona-based programs was a tribute to the effort and enthusiasm that shaped this academic cycle. It marked the end of a stage filled with dedication and shared commitment, and the beginning of another, full of new and exciting projects.
CaixaForum Barcelona, a cultural venue at the foot of Montjuïc’s Olympic mountain, welcomed graduates from all on-campus and blended learning programs in Barcelona, along with members of the online community. The auditorium hosted the graduation ceremony for the University Master’s Degree in Sports Management (on-campus and online), the Master in Sport Marketing and Management Blended, the Master in Sport Business Blended, and the Master in Football Business in partnership with FC Barcelona.
Albert Romans, General Manager of Johan Cruyff Institute, addressed the graduates with a welcome speech, ushering them into the Alumni community and their professional futures: “You are now part of a global network of more than 11,000 Alumni — professionals who love sport, who share this mission and this spirit. As you move forward in your careers — whether in clubs, federations, companies or launching your own ventures — I encourage you to stay true to that spirit.
“Be empathetic leaders. Use your knowledge to build stronger, fairer, and more human organizations.”
Following the emotional words of Rafa Yuste, Vice President of FC Barcelona, who spoke about his personal friendship with Johan Cruyff, the stage was taken by Luis Gustavo Godoy, student representative of the Master in Football Business in partnership with FC Barcelona: “To my dear classmates: thank you for every moment. Let’s use what we’ve learned not only to grow our careers, but also to grow the game — to make it more inclusive, more sustainable, more global. So that the next generation not only plays football, but thrives through it. I’m certain our paths will cross again in the future.”
Passion for Sport, vision for the future
Representing the UAB, the ceremony also featured Álex Rialp, Delegate of the Faculty of Economics and Business at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Ricard Esparza, Academic Director of the University Master’s Degree in Sports Management. Lukas Rojo, chosen as student speaker for the on-campus program in collaboration with the UAB, delivered a powerful message: “Let’s be different. Let’s be disruptive. Because what the sports industry — and the world — needs are people who think outside the box, who dare to fail and try again. So, my friends, let’s go out into the world with that awareness. Let’s seize every moment.
“Let’s dare to be different. Let’s leave a mark. Let’s not be afraid to propose the unthinkable. Let our ideas shake things up — because only then can real change begin.”
Next, Rubén Gospodjinacki spoke on behalf of the students of the University Master’s Degree in Sports Management Online: “As future leaders in this industry, we carry the responsibility to promote inclusion, innovation, and integrity. Whether we work in stadiums, boardrooms, or start-ups, we are shaping the future of sport and the lives that sport transforms.” The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of graduates who were unable to attend in person in Barcelona.
Midway through the evening, it was time for the students of the Master in Sport Business Blended Barcelona. After a speech by Víctor Jordán, Academic Director of Johan Cruyff Institute, Mukami Wambora addressed the audience on behalf of her classmates: “None of this would exist without Johan’s vision. He founded this institute to prepare athletes for life after sport. All of us share that passion for shaping the world of sport. We’ve learned to think differently and lead with purpose. So now, as we move forward — into clubs, agencies, federations, and beyond — let’s carry that spirit with us.”
The diploma ceremony concluded with the students of the Master in Sport Marketing and Management Blended Barcelona. Two students represented the group: Pedro Celedón and Abril Conesa. Pedro emphasized the quality of the education they received: “I take with me the experience of sharing cultures, values, and above all, the opportunity to have received an excellent education from our professors, who generously shared their knowledge and experience at Johan Cruyff Institute.”
Abril reflected on her transition from elite sport to the academic world: “We come from artistic swimming — a sport where teamwork, communication, and trust are essential. When we stepped away, we feared we’d never feel that same sense of unity and belonging again. But we were wrong. This year, we’ve found that the values of sport also live in the classroom.
“We’ve felt support, camaraderie, and trust. And that’s thanks to each and every one of you, my friends.”
To close the evening, the Johan Cruyff Institute Best Academic Record Awards were presented, recognizing the top academic performers of the 2024–2025 academic year. Albert Romans and Víctor Jordán presented the awards to:
- Luis Fernando Escudero, University Master’s Degree in Sports Management Barcelona
- Vito Cerabona, University Master’s Degree in Sports Management Online
- Luis Gustavo Godoy, Master in Football Business in partnership with FC Barcelona
- Mukami Wambora, Master in Sport Business Blended
- John Pérez Morcillo, Master in Sport Marketing and Management Blended
The celebration concluded in the CaixaForum hall, where graduates and their families shared memories, laughter, and plans for the future while enjoying a cocktail reception. Another academic year comes to an end, and a new generation of professionals enters the sports industry — embodying the values of Johan Cruyff Institute.
