Phygital International has appointed Dan Merkley as Chief Executive Officer as the organization continues to expand the global phygital sports ecosystem and drive the long-term development of the Games of the Future.
Merkley joins the organization at a significant time for the global phygital movement, with preparations underway for the Games of the Future Astana 2026, which begins in Astana on 29 July.
With more than two decades’ experience delivering major international sporting events, Merkley brings extensive expertise in sports governance, strategic development, stakeholder engagement and ecosystem building. He takes on the role after serving as Chairperson and Managing Director of the World Phygital Community, where he played a pivotal role in expanding membership to more than 115 countries and establishing the international foundations of today’s global phygital ecosystem.
As Chief Executive Officer, Merkley will lead Phygital International’s long-term strategic vision, focusing on accelerating the growth of the global phygital ecosystem, strengthening strategic partnerships, deepening engagement with host cities, and advancing new phygital disciplines through the continued expansion of the PI Phygital Lab.
Dan Merkley: “I am honored to be appointed CEO of Phygital International at such an important moment for both the organization and the broader phygital movement. There is every reason to be optimistic about the evolution of sport, as more people around the world connect, compete and pursue healthier, more active lifestyles through the integration of physical and digital experiences. The remarkable growth of the phygital movement shows this vision is resonating globally. The insights I have gained working closely with the WPC membership will be invaluable as Phygital International enters its next phase of growth, strengthening the global ecosystem and accelerating the adoption of phygital sport worldwide.”
Alongside preparations for Games of the Future Astana 2026, Merkley will oversee the ongoing bidding process for future editions of the Games of the Future, helping expand the event’s international footprint.
Merkley succeeds Nis Hatt, who guided Phygital International through a period of significant growth and institutional development. Hatt will remain closely involved with the phygital movement, supporting its continued development as the organization enters its next phase.
Following Merkley’s appointment, David Feng has assumed the role of Interim Chairman of the World Phygital Community, ensuring continued alignment across the global phygital ecosystem.
Together, the two appointments signal a new era for phygital sport, reinforcing the movement’s ambition to grow its global reach and cement its position at the forefront of the future of sport.
