Speaking at the virtual International Federation (IF) Forum, Saintrond responded strongly against the idea propounded that data collection could help IFs finance themselves in the current challenging circumstances.

The discussion at the SportAccord event indicated some experts believe this policy could be advantageous for federations facing financial difficulties, because of the willingness of users to give their information to communities and entities that they believe in.

But Saintrond insisted that FISU's stance remained one of respect for the privacy of its users.

"We do not want FISU to become a data collector, even though we have millions of students who can potentially take part in FISU activities," he said.

"Behind every user there is a human being, and we take care in making sure that the data of these people is protected.

"I suspect as well that in the coming years there will be data protection laws that will be much stricter - as is already the case in Europe."

Saintrond added: "We are fortunate that our business model does not depend directly on TV and marketing rights.

"All of those rights are sold to the Organising Committees, so it is up to them to get creative and find new ways to develop them commercially.

"However, we have other non-sport projects that help us increase involvement in the FISU business, such as the FISU Healthy Campus programme which includes participation from students, not only athletes."

At the conclusion of the online seminar on the theme of "Lessons We Are Learning from a Global Crisis and How Sport and Society Can Emerge Stronger", FISU Acting President Leonz Eder was among partners and hosts sharing their message during a virtual launch celebration for the SportAccord 2021 Forum.

This is scheduled for November 7 to 12 in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, which is also due to host the 2023 Summer World University Games and the FISU University World Cup Combat Sports in 2022, 2024 and 2026.