In celebration of the 2026 World IP Day theme, “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate,” TIPO organized the forum “Brands and Sports: A Competition of Innovation and Passion” on April 23 at the International Conference Hall of the College of Law at National Taiwan University. The opening ceremony was jointly hosted by TIPO Deputy Director General Ping-Lun Hu and Taiwan Trademark Association President Ruey-Sen Tsai.

Focusing on technological trends and brand value expansion, the forum invited speakers from a wide range of fields, including TIPO experts, practicing attorneys, professional baseball team executives, and former national athletes, to share their experiences and insights. Discussions covered key issues such as brand management in the sports industry, intellectual property protection, and the application of emerging technologies. The forum promoted greater understanding of the interaction between the sports industry and intellectual property while demonstrating Taiwan’s active efforts in advancing IP development. More than 200 participants attended the event, and discussions throughout the forum were lively and well received for their forward-looking and practical perspectives.

The forum opened with a presentation by TIPO Section Chief Guan-Hsun Chen titled “Brands, Sports, and Technology: Bridging the Physical and Virtual Worlds.” The session analyzed trends in the digital transformation of sports brands and explained how brands are extending from physical products into digital assets and virtual experiences. The presentation also explored how emerging technologies can leverage intellectual property to create long-term value. Following this, attorney Gary Kuo of Winkler Partners delivered a presentation titled “Brands and Sports: Are Athlete Brands Adequately Protected?” The session examined legal issues surrounding the protection of athletes’ personal brands and attracted significant interest from participants.

From the perspective of industry practice, Han-Wei Chiang, Marketing Director of the Fubon Guardians baseball team, shared practical experiences in brand management and marketing strategies. He discussed how fan engagement, digital tools, and on-site experience design can enhance both brand value and the spectator experience. In addition, former national tennis player and founder of the Rendy International Tennis Academy, Rendy Lu, shared insights from his own professional journey in a presentation titled “From Court to Brand: How Athletes Create Lasting Influence.” He explained how athletes can gradually build personal brands and continue expanding their educational and social influence after retirement, creating long-term value for the sports industry.

As the sports industry continues to grow and technological applications become increasingly integrated into the field, brands and intellectual property have become essential drivers of competitiveness. Through cross-sector discussions on industry trends, legal issues, and practical experiences, the forum not only promoted dialogue among diverse sectors but also enhanced public awareness of sports brand protection and management. TIPO will continue to promote related exchange activities in the future to strengthen the connection between intellectual property and industry to inject new energy into Taiwan’s innovation development.