Driving Innovation

In collaboration with the French Embassy in the UK we examine two contemporary issues – how to preserve our heritage and science in sport. Our discussions begin with two key events in Paris this year – the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral and the 2024 Olympic Games.

These Festival Focus events are presented in collaboration with The French Embassy in the UK.

Saturday 1 June and Friday 7 June

The Science of Sport - Saturday 1 June, 2.30pm to 3.45pm

Ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in July, our speakers, including double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes, explore elite sports. How does science contribute to making athletes faster and stronger? How much does talent contribute to success, or can training and commitment create an elite athlete?

Heritage and Technology - Friday 7 June, 12 noon to 1pm

Following its renovation, the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral reopens this year. Our panel of experts reflects on the importance of conserving traditional crafts alongside the use of modern technologies to preserve our history.