Under the bright lights of global sport, where spectacle meets emotion, and every detail shapes the fan experience, major tournaments are remembered as much for their ceremonies as for the matches themselves. In this arena, events are no longer just supporting acts; they are powerful storytelling platforms that project a nation’s ambition, culture, and vision to the world. As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the AFC Asian Cup 2027, the Kingdom’s commitment to delivering an unforgettable tournament is being translated into carefully crafted moments of celebration, connection, and pride.​
At the heart of this effort stands John Jossifakis, Head of Events & Ceremonies for Saudi 2027, and a seasoned creator of large-scale international events. With over 25 years of experience across Olympic and Asian Games ceremonies, multiple AFC Asian Cups, and thousands of shows delivered in over 100 countries, he brings deep expertise in show direction, ceremony design, and fan-focused experiences to the Local Organising Committee. As a Certified Special Events Professional and senior leader within the AFC Asian Cup 2027 project, John is responsible for shaping and managing a diverse portfolio of official events, galas, fan zones, tours, activations, and ceremonies that will define how the world sees Saudi Arabia’s landmark tournament.​
Building a Legacy in Global Sports and Entertainment
John Jossifakis began his career in international touring as a pyrotechnician and fireworks designer before transitioning into lighting design. He worked on major tours with well-known artists including Britney Spears, Janet Jackson, Metallica, Cher, the Rolling Stones, the Scorpions, and Aerosmith. His career advanced when he joined the ceremonies team for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games after moving to Greece from Canada to take part in this prestigious event. He later served as a senior advisor for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Ceremonies.
Following this, John moved to the Middle East, where he worked on key events such as the 2006 Asian Games and the 2011 Asian Cup, which was his first experience with the Asian Cup tournament. After relocating to Dubai, he joined a private company before becoming the ceremonies manager for the 2019 Asian Cup in Abu Dhabi.
The upcoming 2027 Asian Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marks his third time working on this major tournament in the same role. Over his career, he has been involved in over 2,000 shows across more than 100 countries, including global tours, major sporting events like the FIFA Club World Cup and Amiri Cup finals in United Arab Emirates and Qatar, Red Bull Events and Formula One events, major fashion shows, corporate launches, and Expo pavilions such as those in Shanghai 2010 and Dubai 2020.
The Power of Connection Through Events
John Jossifakis is deeply inspired by the unique ability of large-scale events and ceremonies to bring people together. He believes that attendees often arrive carrying personal and professional stresses, but when they step into an event, they are given the chance to unwind and escape their everyday worries. As an event professional, John recognizes that there is only a limited window to capture people’s attention, create memorable moments, and teleport them to a different world through storytelling.
For John, the essence of event production lies in being both a storyteller and a creator of experiences. He views his role as one that helps people embark on unforgettable journeys, enriching their lives with moments of joy, reflection, and connection. He is passionate about this field because it allows him to craft positive experiences that people cherish and remember. Events, in his view, are designed to foster connection and enjoyment—no one attends to feel negative, but to find pleasure and meaning in shared experiences.​
Early Career Milestones
One of the most significant projects in John’s career was the Athens 2004 Olympics, where he worked as one of the project managers for what is considered one of the largest stadium productions ever. The event included extraordinary elements such as a large water-filled stage, underwater flame effects, aerial rigging, and a complex pit that could drain millions of liters of water in seconds to create room for the athletes’ parade.
At that time, John Jossifakis was in his mid-20s and relatively early in his career, making the project especially challenging. However, the experience provided invaluable lessons that shaped his professional growth. Over the past two decades, he has gained much more expertise, enabling him to handle complex ceremonies and various event challenges more effectively. He now has an extensive global network of people, resources, and suppliers, helping him successfully manage projects anywhere in the world.​
Building a Global Sports Legacy in Saudi Arabia
The AFC Asian Cup 2027 is a major international football tournament hosted by Saudi Arabia. The event aims to elevate Asian football to new heights by showcasing top teams from across the continent in a world-class sporting competition. The tournament is organized with a strong focus on delivering an exceptional experience for players, fans, and stakeholders, while promoting Saudi Arabia’s vision and commitment to becoming a global hub for major sporting events. It represents a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s sports legacy and international presence.
Infographic:
- 900,000+ km flown the past 8 years for events
- 20,000+ hours in Event preperation
- 2,000+ Events around the world
- 1,500+ Flying Hours the past 8 years
- 600+ Hotel days the past 8 years
- 500+ Flights Taken
Leading Ceremonies and Innovation in Saudi Arabia
In his current role as ceremonies manager for Saudi 2027, John Jossifakis focuses primarily on the execution and operational delivery of events rather than on creative decision-making. Nonetheless, he has led the creation of several notable ceremonies in the Middle East, including having the roles of Formula 1 Jeddah Entertainment Director, Dakar show designer and show caller, and director for a series of prominent events such as Gov Games Dubai, UAE National Day Celebrations, the World Fencing Championship, the IHF Handball Championships, and the launch event of the ASEER Tourism Campaign for Saudi Arabia’s global tourism initiative.
Throughout his career, John has set numerous records, holding 12 Guinness World Records and receiving eight Middle East Event Awards. Most recently, he was honored with an inclusion in the 100 most influential people in the global events industry and 50 most influential people in the events industry in the Middle East, by the EVENTEX.
John Jossifakis views innovation and creativity as the art of bringing vibrant, meaningful visions to life that deeply connect with audiences. He understands that during an event, it is not just a matter of addressing people, but rather, forming an emotional bond that creates affinity and understanding between the audience and the performers or key figures on stage. For him, this emotional connection lies at the heart of every successful event he produces.​ If the audience can connect, then it’s a success.
Building a Legacy in Major Sports Events
Saudi 2027 is an ongoing initiative with many planned partnerships, collaborations, and acquisitions set to be announced over the coming year. The project involves significant work aimed at representing the Kingdom in the best possible light. The goal is to attract global attention and use this platform to tell a unique story about how Saudi Arabia’s vision is creating a lasting legacy in sports. The Kingdom is rapidly becoming a central hub where major global sports events will converge.
Historically, major events were often centered in cities like New York, London, Tokyo, and San Francisco. However, Saudi Arabia is now emerging as THE focal point for international and sporting events. The Kingdom, along with the wider region, is shifting focus and establishing a dynamic that is expected to shape the global landscape of events over the next 10 to 15 years.
Fostering Growth Through Leading by Example
John’s leadership style is built on leading by example. He believes in gaining a thorough understanding of all aspects of his team’s work, including lighting, sound, rigging, as well as operational and artistic management. This comprehensive knowledge enables him to manage and support his team effectively.
He emphasizes demonstrating the correct way to perform tasks and encourages continuous skill development among team members. When he notices gaps in knowledge or skills, he focuses on providing education and mentorship. Creating an environment where talent can be tested, taught, and nurtured is a key part of his leadership approach. Ultimately, John Jossifakis is dedicated to teaching and aims to leave a lasting impact on the events industry through the growth and development of the people he leads.
Making Events Memorable and Meaningful
Creativity has always played a central role in John’s life, both personally and professionally. He not only designs and creates shows but also expresses himself through various forms of art, including a large graffiti painting he created for his own dining room.
To John, creativity means evoking emotions, stimulating thoughts, and inspiring a sense of wonder. He believes that truly meaningful creativity engages the senses, challenges people’s perceptions, and encourages them to dream and explore through their imagination.
Creating Unique, Immersive Experiences
Looking ahead, John Jossifakis and his team at Saudi 2027 plan to introduce several exciting innovations over the next year and a half. They aim to review and explore large-scale immersive technologies, such as augmented reality and artificial intelligence, and possibly integrate the latest advancements into their productions. Their objective is to offer audiences a unique experience unlike any seen in other competitions.
By leveraging these technologies, they want to create moments where the audience plays a central role in the narrative, becoming an active part of the story, the show, and the emotions conveyed. This focus on immersive engagement is set to redefine how audiences connect with events and deepen their experience.​
Open Letter for Emerging Event Leaders
Dear Emerging Event Leaders,
My first piece of advice is to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to software and technology, especially understanding and leveraging artificial intelligence (AI). Use AI tools for creating images, drafting proposals, managing projects, leading teams, organizing Gantt charts, and ensuring smooth operational delivery throughout your events.
The events industry is evolving rapidly. It is no longer just an apprentice-based field or reliant on paper records. Today, it is a multi-platform, multi-application industry that depends on a variety of tools to deliver events on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
For those starting and growing their careers, I recommend avoiding becoming a narrow specialist. Instead, aim to become a well-rounded generalist with a broad understanding of different aspects of the industry. The more knowledge you have across lighting, sound, production management, stage management, and more, the more valuable and effective you will be at managing events and advancing your career.
For example, a costume designer may excel in their specialty but might not be equipped to handle production management or show calling. Being a versatile professional who can navigate multiple facets of event production is key to long-term success.
In short, don’t just specialize—strive to develop a diverse skill set that enhances your overall capability in the events industry.
Sincerely,
John Jossifakis
Head of Events & Ceremonies for Saudi 2027
5 Key Takeaways from John Jossifakis’ Inspiring Journey and Impact
- A Global Events Visionary – John Jossifakis brings over 25 years of experience across 100+ countries, shaping major events including Olympic ceremonies, World Championships, Asian Games and Cups, corporate events, and global tours.
- Master of Meaningful Experiences – He believes events should create emotional connection, offering people joy, reflection, and escape through powerful storytelling.
- Driving Innovation for Saudi 2027 – As Head of Events & Ceremonies, he is delivering the vision to produce an unforgettable AFC Asian Cup 2027 with world-class fan experiences and cutting-edge technology.
- A Leader Who Teaches by Example – John’s leadership focuses on hands-on knowledge, mentorship, and helping his teams grow through continuous learning and skill development, education, and informative sessions.
- Championing the Future of Event Production – His open advice to emerging professionals: embrace technology, understand AI, and become versatile generalists to thrive in the fast-evolving events industry.
