The IOC World Conference on Prevention of Injury & Illness in sport

Injury and Illness. Two words that can strike fear into the hearts of both athletes and their entourage, and which often hang over those preparing for competition.

As a former athlete, I truly understand their apprehension. I have experienced how very important it is to have access to medical support staff who are up-to-date with the latest research and medical practices, and protect the clean athletes.

For over 40 years, the IOC has worked, through its Medical Commission, to protect the health of the athletes. First through the fight against doping in sport, and for the last 12 years also through prevention and education, by using and channelling the very best worldwide expertise in injury and illness prevention

After a first successful edition held in Monaco in 2011, this second IOC World Conference on Prevention of Injury and Illness in Sport is the ideal platform for the dissemination of the latest research through seminars, lectures, workshops and posters by leaders in the field.

May I thank my IOC colleague HSH Prince Albert II and the whole Principality of Monaco for hosting this 2014 Conference.

My thanks go also to our partners and all the contributing authors and speakers for their support for and involvement in the Conference.

Our objective remains to take concrete measures to implement new or improved injury prevention strategies, to maximise safe sports participation and thus to ensure that elite and recreational athletes alike are as fit and healthy as possible.