Helping student-athletes thrive – meet keynote speaker Lukas Linnér

Supporting student-athletes is about much more than balancing sport and education. According to keynote speaker Lukas Linnér, universities play a vital role in creating environments where students can thrive academically, athletically and personally. At the FISU World Forum 2026 in Östersund, he will share how research and collaboration can help make that happen.

Lukas Linnér is a senior lecturer at Halmstad University and a researcher specialising in sport psychology and athlete development. His research focuses on dual careers for student-athletes, including lifestyle balance, career transitions and the environments that support athletes in both sport and education.
Working in collaboration with the Swedish Sports Confederation, he has contributed to the development of Sweden’s national guidelines for dual career-friendly universities. His work bridges research and practice, providing universities and sport organisations with evidence-based strategies to better support student-athletes throughout their academic and sporting journeys.

At the FISU World Forum 2026, Lukas will share insights into how universities, sport organisations and other stakeholders can work together to create sustainable support systems that help student-athletes succeed both during and after their sporting careers.

Ahead of the Forum, we asked him a few questions about his keynote and the future of student-athlete development.

What is the one key message you hope participants will take away from your keynote in Östersund?
“Dual career is not only about helping student-athletes balance sport and education, it’s about creating environments where talented young people can thrive as whole persons. When universities, sports organisations, municipalities, and policymakers work together, student-athletes are better equipped to succeed in sport, complete their education and prepare for meaningful lives beyond athletic careers.”

In your view, what is the biggest challenge universities face today when it comes to promoting student health, wellbeing and physical activity?
“Many student-athletes are highly ambitious, resilient and accustomed to solving problems on their own. These qualities often contribute to success in both sport and academia, but they can also make it less likely for student-athletes who may be struggling but do not actively seek help when facing challenges related to stress, mental health, or balancing competing demands. It’s important that universities move beyond a reactive approach and create support systems that are visible, accessible and proactive. The challenge is not only providing services but also fostering a culture where seeking support is seen as a strength, not a sign of weakness. When we succeed in this, we are better able to safeguard both the wellbeing and long-term development of our student-athletes.”

Can you share an example of a university, organisation or initiative that is making a real difference and could inspire others around the world?
“The development of the Swedish dual career system is an example that may be of interest internationally. Over the past decade, universities, the Swedish Sports Confederation, national sport federations and researchers have collaborated to create structures that support university student-athletes throughout their journey. The Swedish national dual career guidelines have provided a shared framework for institutions and stakeholders, helping to strengthen support services, improve flexibility and promote evidence-based practice. One of the important lessons from this work is that sustainable progress comes from long-term collaboration between research, policy and practice.”

If every participant could leave the Forum and make one change at their university, what would you like that change to be?
“I would encourage every participant to start viewing student-athletes, and indeed all students, through a holistic lens. This means seeing them as a person first, and recognising that academic or athletic success, together with health, wellbeing, and personal development are interconnected rather than competing priorities. Even small steps, such as improving flexibility, strengthening support networks or creating opportunities for student-to-student exchange, can have a significant impact on their overall development and long-term success.”

What are you most looking forward to experiencing in Östersund and at the FISU World Forum?
“I am looking forward to the opportunity to engage with colleagues, students and leaders from around the world who share a commitment to improving the student-athlete experience. The FISU World Forum has a unique ability to bring together diverse perspectives, creating opportunities for learning, collaboration and new ideas. I am also excited to revisit Östersund, a city with a strong sporting culture and a longstanding connection to winter sports and active lifestyles, which provides an inspiring setting for these discussions.”