Doha: At the Web Summit Qatar 2025, a thought-provoking panel discussion titled Funding the Future of Sports brought together two key figures in the world of sports and investment—Julian Draxler, World Cup-winning footballer and investor, and Koen Bosma, partner at APEX. The conversation delved into the evolving landscape of modern sports, the role of data in shaping athletic performance, and the untapped potential for Middle Eastern involvement in global sports investment.
Draxler, who currently ply his trade with Al Ahli SC in Qatar, opened the discussion by reflecting on his journey as both a player and now an investor. He emphasized how profoundly football has transformed over the past decade, particularly with advancements in technology and analytics. “Football was not the same 10-15 years ago,” he remarked, recalling simpler times when skill on the ball alone could define a player’s worth. Today, however, success is measured not just by goals scored but also by kilometers run, sprints completed, and countless other metrics tracked meticulously through tablets and wearables.
While acknowledging the benefits of this shift toward data-driven decision-making, Draxler admitted that it might not suit everyone—including himself. Known for his creative flair and vision on the pitch, he confessed, “I’m probably not the one who likes to run too much.” Yet, he recognized that such tools are now integral to scouting talent and optimizing training regimens. For instance, clubs can identify promising players halfway across the globe simply by analyzing their speed or endurance stats via an iPad.
Despite embracing these innovations, Draxler remains a self-proclaimed “romantic” when it comes to football. He expressed nostalgia for the days when fans were drawn to stadiums not solely by statistics but by moments of brilliance—the kind that showcased a player’s deeper understanding of the game. “I prefer to see someone who has a bigger vision of football,” he said, highlighting the importance of balancing raw athleticism with artistry.
Transitioning from his playing career to life after retirement, Draxler shared his excitement about leveraging his experiences to shape the future of sports. Having been at the center of professional football for years, he believes former athletes possess unique insights that can drive meaningful change. “We know what we liked, what we didn’t like, and how things evolved during our careers,” he explained. This insider perspective positions them well to mentor younger generations and contribute to innovations within the industry.
Bosma echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives in making informed investment decisions. As a partner at APEX, Bosma highlighted the firm’s commitment to fostering connections between emerging companies and sports organizations worldwide. However, he noted a gap in representation from the Middle East—a region brimming with potential yet underutilized in terms of active participation in sports investment.
When asked whether the Middle East could play a more significant role in the global sporting scene, Bosma acknowledged the region’s growing influence but stressed the need for greater diversity in its contributions. While there are already notable investments attracting high-profile stars and events, Bosma argued that true impact requires engagement beyond hosting tournaments or signing marquee players.
“For us, it’s about being as diverse in our perspective as possible,” he stated. By expanding coverage and partnerships into regions like the Middle East, investors can introduce startups to new markets and create opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration. Bosma concluded optimistically, expressing hope that the region would step up its involvement in shaping the future of sports.
The panel underscored the delicate balance between tradition and innovation in sports. On one hand, technological advancements have revolutionized how athletes train and compete; on the other, the soul of the game—the creativity, passion, and unpredictability—must remain intact. As Draxler aptly put it, “The taste is different.” Whether you’re a fan captivated by dazzling footwork or a coach poring over post-match data, the beauty of sports lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
