Ministry of Sport

HITIQ Appoints AFLW Star Ebony Marinoff as PROTEQT™ Brand Ambassador

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

HITIQ Limited (ASX: HIQ) has announced the appointment of Adelaide Crows co-captain and AFLW icon Ebony Marinoff as an official brand ambassador for its PROTEQT™ instrumented mouthguard platform.

The partnership marks a significant commercial step for the health-tech firm, aligning its head-impact sensing technology with one of the most decorated and durable athletes in Australian rules football history.

Marinoff’s appointment is built on authentic product advocacy; the midfielder already utilises the PROTEQT™ platform at the elite level to monitor head impact exposure. As an ambassador, she will lead campaigns to increase awareness of player welfare tools across both professional and grassroots sporting communities, emphasising the accessibility of evidence-based data for all levels of contact sport.

Marinoff highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between professional and community sports technology.

“I wear PROTEQT™ at the elite level, so it’s great to see the technology becoming available to players at all levels of the game.”

“Giving grassroots athletes access to the same tools used in the professional environment is a really positive step for the sport,” Marinoff said.

Noting that Marinoff’s leadership and professionalism make her an ideal representative for the company’s expansion, HITIQ Executive chair and CEO, Earl Eddings, added: “Ebony is one of the most respected players in AFLW history.”

“Her genuine use of PROTEQT™ and commitment to growing the game make her an ideal ambassador as we continue expanding adoption across both elite and community sport,” Eddings said.

The 2024 AFLW Best and Fairest winner holds a storied resume, including three premierships and seven All-Australian selections.

In 2025, Marinoff became one of the first two players in league history to reach the 100-game milestone, underscoring her reputation for consistency. She currently holds the AFLW career records for both disposals and tackles, averaging 30.5 disposals and 12.4 tackles per match during the 2024 season.

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Melbourne Victory Appoints P3 Recovery as Official Recovery Partner

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

Melbourne Victory has announced a new partnership with P3 Recovery, naming the health and wellness franchise as the club’s Official Recovery Partner.

The collaboration aims to provide a competitive edge to the club’s A-League Men’s and Women’s programs by integrating advanced recovery therapies into their elite high-performance routines.

P3 Recovery is currently one of the fastest-growing wellbeing communities in Australia, operating multiple state-of-the-art centres, including four locations across Victoria.

As part of the agreement, Melbourne Victory players will utilise the facilities at P3 Richmond for team-based recovery sessions and specialised injury rehabilitation, ensuring access to cutting-edge tools designed to enhance both physical and mental performance.

Highlighting the importance of sports science in the club’s pursuit of excellence, Melbourne Victory managing director, Caroline Carnegie, said: “As industry leaders, serving to inspire through the world’s game, every edge matters, and partnering with P3 Recovery provides a new dynamic to the support afforded to our players.”

“Melbourne Victory looks forward to seeing a positive uplift in recovery through this partnership,” Carnegie said.

Expressing that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to peak performance, P3 Franchisee, Naum Sekulovski, added: “Partnering with Melbourne Victory is a natural fit for P3 Recovery.”

“We’re passionate about helping people take control of their health through expert-led therapies, everyday performance tools and a welcoming space designed to help you feel better, move better, and live better.

“Whether you’re managing injury, chasing a goal or just need to reset, P3 is where recovery becomes a lifestyle,” Sekulovski said.

The deal also extends benefits to the club’s broader community. Melbourne Victory Members will receive exclusive discounts on P3 products and services, which will be integrated into the club’s “Partner Perks” platform. This move aligns with the club’s strategy to provide tangible value to its membership base while promoting a culture of health and wellness.

PUMA Appoints Laurent Fricker as Vice President of Sportstyle Business Unit

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

Global sports company PUMA has announced the appointment of Laurent Fricker as the new vice president of its Sportstyle Business Unit, effective 1 June 2026.

Reporting directly to Chief Brand Officer (CBO) Maria Valdes, Fricker will be responsible for overseeing one of PUMA’s most commercially significant divisions, which leverages the brand’s 78-year archive to drive modern lifestyle trends.

Highlighting Fricker’s expertise in consumer culture as a key factor in the appointment, PUMA CBO, Maria Valdes, said: “Laurent is a focused leader with a clear track record of connecting sport authenticity with on-trend credibility and strong cross-functional execution.”

“With his deep understanding of consumer culture, product storytelling, and go-to-market expertise, I am confident that he will further strengthen the Sportstyle Business Unit and accelerate its contribution to PUMA’s growth,” Valdes said.

Fricker expressed his enthusiasm for tapping into PUMA’s extensive historical catalog to create cultural impact.

“With PUMA’s 78 years of history and many product icons that can inspire our designers, heading the Sportstyle unit is a fantastic opportunity.”

“We have the clear potential to further sharpen our product offering and create products that become culturally relevant to our consumers,” Fricker said.

Fricker joins PUMA following a distinguished two-decade career in leadership roles across product marketing and sales at adidas and Reebok. Most recently, he served as vice president of Originals, Basketball, and Partnerships for Europe at adidas, where he was credited with the successful expansion of several high-profile product franchises.

The Sportstyle unit is a cornerstone of PUMA’s global growth strategy, blending “sport authenticity” with “on-trend credibility.” The division manages iconic silhouettes such as the Suede and the Speedcat, the latter of which has seen a significant resurgence in 2025 and 2026 due to the global rise of motorsport-inspired fashion.

Strategically, the appointment comes as PUMA continues to aggressively compete in the “terrace” and “retro-runner” categories. By bringing in a veteran with extensive experience in the “Originals” space, PUMA is positioning itself to better monetize its heritage assets and maintain its momentum as a leader in the intersection of performance sport and streetwear.

Queensland Rugby Union Partners with Gallipoli Medical Research for Anzac Appeal

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) has officially announced a new partnership with Gallipoli Medical Research, aimed at bolstering support for Australian Defence Force veterans and their families.

The announcement, made ahead of Saturday’s Anzac Day commemorations, aligns the state’s rugby body with one of the nation’s leading not-for-profit research institutes focused on the long-term health impacts of military service.

Welcoming the collaboration, chief executive of Gallipoli Medical Research, Miriam Kent, said: “Gallipoli Medical Research is delighted to partner with the Queensland Reds this Anzac Day to honour all who’ve served our country, including Queensland Reds players.”

“These funds will directly benefit Australian veterans and their families through our pioneering research,” Kent said.

Emphasising the deep historical ties between the sport and the military, QRU CEO, David Hanham, said: “Queensland rugby has links across more than a century with the men and women who have served Australia.”

“Our Anzac Day match against the Blues is played on a significant day to Australians and it is fitting we can proudly announce our partnership with Gallipoli Medical Research this week,” Hanham said.

Based at Greenslopes Private Hospital, Gallipoli Medical Researchis globally recognised for its pioneering biopsychosocial research. This work investigates the complex physical, mental, and social transitions of veterans reintegrating into civilian life.

The partnership comes as the Queensland Reds prepare to travel to Christchurch for the “Super Round,” where they will face the Blues in their traditional Anzac Day fixture on Saturday, 25 April 2026. The match serves as a memorial for the more than 60 Queensland Reds players who have served in wartime, including twelve who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Central to the partnership is the Reds’ Anzac jersey, designed by Canterbury, which features 12 poppies on the front to acknowledge the fallen. Funds will be raised for Gallipoli Medical Research through a “Match Worn Shirt” auction following the Saturday clash.

Additionally, Gallipoli Medical Research has been named the charity partner for the 50-50 raffle at the Reds’ next home game against the ACT Brumbies at Suncorp Stadium on May 2.

The legacy of the Reds’ service history includes figures like Llewellyn Evans, Tom Richards MC, and Alex Dingwall MM MID, all of whom landed at Gallipoli on the original Anzac Day. By aligning with Gallipoli Medical Research, the QRU is ensuring that the commercial and cultural platform of Super Rugby contributes directly to the clinical advancement of veteran wellbeing.

Supercars Records Historic Attendance at Inaugural Christchurch Super 440

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

Supercars has announced a record-breaking attendance of 65,806 for the inaugural ITM Christchurch Super 440, marking the largest event ever held at Ruapuna Raceway.

The three-day carnival, which concluded on 19 April 2026, represented a triumphant debut for the Repco Supercars Championship on New Zealand’s South Island, following a multi-year effort to bring the category to the region.

The weekend saw a total sell-out for both Saturday and Sunday, while Friday’s attendance exceeded expectations due to a revised schedule.

Following the unprecedented cancellation of the Sunday session at the ITM Taupō Super 440 due to the impact of Cyclone Vaianu, Supercars officials relocated Race 10 to the Friday in Christchurch. This adjustment created the first-ever “triple-threat” race weekend in the South Island, contributing to a combined ITM NZ Double Header attendance of 95,368.

Expressing satisfaction with the local reception, Supercars chair and interim chief executive, Barclay Nettlefold, said: “The passion, devotion and knowledge of the fans here at Ruapuna has blown us away.”

“A South Island race has been a long time coming and we thank everyone who came here over these special three days for bringing it to life.

“We’re working closely with our hosts, the Canterbury Car Club, to make this experience even bigger and better next year,” Nettlefold said.

Highlighting the event’s significant contribution to the local economy and motorsport culture, Christchurch Mayor, Phil Mauger, added: “This weekend has been amazing for our city and local motorsport community.”

“We are thrilled to give Supercars a home here in Christchurch and include this world-class event in our calendar,” Mauger said.

On-Track Highlights and Commercial Success

The racing mirrored the intensity of the crowd, with local and international stars sharing the podium:

Friday (Race 10): Kai Allen (Grove Racing) secured his first-ever Supercars victory, expertly managing a rescheduled 37-lap sprint.
Saturday (Race 11): Brodie Kostecki (Dick Johnson Racing) claimed a dominant victory, further solidifying his position in the championship standings.
Sunday (Race 12): Kiwi star Matt Payne (Penrite Racing) sent the home crowd into a frenzy with a dominant win, finishing over 11 seconds ahead of the field.

The prestigious Jason Richards Memorial Trophy, awarded to the driver who accumulated the most points across both the Taupō and Christchurch rounds, was claimed by Broc Feeney (Triple Eight Race Engineering). Feeney’s consistency across the New Zealand fortnight secured him the points lead as the championship returns to Australia.

The Repco Supercars Championship will now return to Australia for the Tyrepower Tasmania Super 440, scheduled for 22–24 May 2026.

Seven Network Expands VFLW Coverage with Tasmania Devils Broadcast Deal

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

The AFL has announced an expansion of the VFLW broadcast landscape for the 2026 season, securing a deal with the Seven Network and Sports Entertainment Group (SEG) to televise the Tasmania Devils’ first six home matches.

The agreement ensures the inaugural VFLW side receives dedicated coverage on Seven Tasmania and 7plus Sport nationally, mirroring the broadcast structure already in place for the club’s men’s VFL program.

The 2026 VFLW season, which features 13 clubs over 16 rounds, officially commences on Saturday, 16 May. The Devils’ debut match against the Casey Demons at North Hobart Oval will headline the new broadcast schedule, serving as part of a double-header with the men’s VFL side. All VFLW matches not featured on Seven will continue to be streamed live and free via AFL.com.au and the AFL Live Official App.

Hailing the deal as a milestone for the competition’s visibility, AFL executive general manager of Finance, Broadcast and Infrastructure, Matthew Chun, said: “The AFL is delighted to partner with the Seven Network and SEN to showcase the VFLW to a broader audience in 2026.”

“It’s not just a great result for the Tasmania Football Club, but also supporters of Victorian-based teams who can watch their VFLW team in action when travelling to take on the Devils,” Chun said.

Emphasising that the partnership is foundational to the club’s identity as it builds toward AFL and AFLW entry in 2028, Tasmania Football Club CEO, Brendon Gale, added: “This is more than just a broadcast partnership; it is about laying the right foundations.”

“When we talk about building Tasmania’s football club, we mean for everyone. These young women deserve to be seen, and every Tasmanian deserves the chance to watch them play,” Gale said.

The move follows strong ratings for the Devils’ men’s VFL home games earlier this year.

Noting that the expansion was a natural progression, Seven Network head of AFL and Sport Innovation, Gary O’Keeffe, noted: “Passionate Devils fans in Tasmania won’t be the only ones to watch their women’s side’s home matches… We cannot wait to see this team make history.”

Seven Network VFLW Broadcast Schedule (First 6 Home Games):

Round 1: Tasmania vs Casey Demons – North Hobart Oval, Sat 16 May, 2:35 pm
Round 4: Tasmania vs North Melbourne – North Hobart Oval, Sat 6 June, 1:35 pm
Round 5: Tasmania vs Darebin – UTAS Stadium, Sat 13 June, 3:35 pm
Round 8: Tasmania vs Box Hill Hawks – (Scheduling TBC)
Round 9: Tasmania vs Geelong Cats – (Scheduling TBC)
Round 13: Tasmania vs Carlton – (Scheduling TBC)

In a related scheduling update, the AFL advised of time changes for two upcoming Smithy’s VFL matches on Seven Tasmania: the Round 8 clash against Southport on 16 May will now start at 11:05 am, and the Round 11 match against North Melbourne on 6 June will commence at 10:05 am.

Allegiant Stadium Named Pollstar’s 2026 Stadium of the Year Following $1.1 Billion Economic Impact

Posted on April 21, 2026 by Courtney

Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas has been crowned “Stadium of the Year” (U.S. only) at the 37th Annual Pollstar Awards, held last week in Los Angeles.

The peer-voted honour, considered the benchmark for excellence in the live entertainment industry, recognises the venue’s superior programming, production values, and commercial performance during a record-breaking reporting period.

Highlighting the vision of owner Mark Davis in establishing the venue as a global leader, president of the Las Vegas Raiders, Sandra Douglass Morgan, said: “This award is a testament to the dedication of our team and partners, and to the fans and guests who make this venue so special.”

“Mark Davis built Allegiant Stadium with a vision to deliver world-class experiences at every touchpoint,

“We’re proud to continue raising the bar and showcasing what Las Vegas can and has been delivering on a global stage,” Morgan said.

Crediting the industry’s trust for the venue’s success, general manager of Allegiant Stadium for Legends Global, Andy Gorchov, said: “Legends Global is proud to partner with the Raiders and the Las Vegas community to deliver world-class experiences that set the standard for our industry.”

“We’re grateful to the agents, promoters, artists, and athletes who trust us with their biggest events,” Gorchov said.

The home of the Las Vegas Raiders outperformed a competitive field of iconic American venues, including SoFi Stadium, MetLife Stadium, and Fenway Park.

The recognition follows a landmark 2025 calendar year in which live music and entertainment events at the stadium generated more than $281 million in gross revenue.

Commercial Powerhouse and Tourism Driver

According to the Las Vegas Raiders Impact Report for 2025, released in January 2026, the stadium has become a primary driver for the Nevada tourism economy:

Targeted Visitation: 62% of visitors travelled to Las Vegas specifically for an event at Allegiant Stadium.
Economic Impact: The venue generated an estimated $1.1 billion in total economic impact for the city in 2025.
Marquee Events: The reporting period included WrestleMania 41, the most successful in WWE history, and the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford championship bout, which set new records for attendance and live-event revenue.

2026 Programming and Future Outlook

The stadium’s 2026 schedule remains densely packed with elite international talent, including BTS, Ed Sheeran, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, and the dual-headline R&B tour featuring Usher and Chris Brown.

Looking ahead, the venue has secured a pipeline of “crown jewel” sporting events, including the 2027 College Football Playoff National Championship, the 2028 NCAA Men’s Final Four, and Super Bowl LXIII in 2029.

Fully enclosed and powered by 100% renewable energy, the LEED Gold-certified facility continues to redefine the commercial potential of multi-purpose stadiums on the global stage.

Toowoomba named host of 2027 Senior State Age

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Netball Queensland has officially announced that the Toowoomba Netball Association will host the 2027 Senior State Age carnival.

The decision follows the successful conclusion of the 2026 event in Townsville, where Redcliffe Leagues Netball Association claimed the prestigious 18 Championship title and Hinterland District secured a Championship double in the 15 and 16 divisions.

The Senior State Age remains one of the largest participation events in Queensland, attracting thousands of athletes aged 15 to 18. The selection of Toowoomba marks a significant milestone for the region, which has not hosted the state-wide carnival in over 40 years. The event is scheduled to take place from 3 to 6 April 2027.

Noting the strategic importance of the upgraded facilities, Netball Queensland CEO, Kate Davies, said: “Their newly upgraded facilities will provide an outstanding venue and we’re looking forward to teams from across the state visiting Toowoomba to take part in what promises to be an exceptional event.”

Highlighting the commercial and community benefits for the Darling Downs region, president of Toowoomba Netball Association, Adam Marjoribanks, added: “This event will provide a fantastic opportunity to highlight our newly upgraded facilities and our players will enjoy the benefits of playing on their home courts whilst sleeping in their own beds.”

“For the community, the economic benefits of hosting an event this large will be greatly welcomed by the region’s businesses and provides an opportunity to showcase the Toowoomba Region,” Marjoribanks said.

The bid’s success was bolstered by Toowoomba’s recent completion of a $2 million major redevelopment of its courts.

The project was supported by a $1.65 million grant from the Australian Government’s Play Our Way program, ensuring the venue meets elite standards for the thousands of players, coaches, and officials expected to attend.

The 2026 carnival recently celebrated the growth of the game with the inclusion of the First Nations Academy of Excellence, which claimed the 18 Division 3 title, and the continued expansion of the Senior Boys division.

Wurundjeri Corporation and Melbourne Storm Form Historic Partnership

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Melbourne Storm have announced a partnership aimed at creating sustainable opportunities for First Nations people through community, cultural, and educational collaboration.

The agreement marks a significant step in the club’s commitment to the Traditional Owners of the land on which they are based and compete.

The partnership focuses on a multi-faceted approach to supporting First Nations people across Melbourne and all of Wurundjeri Country. Central to the agreement is the establishment of a new Cultural Advisory Committee, where the Corporation will provide representation to guide the club’s strategic direction regarding Indigenous affairs.

The Corporation will also support the Storm with cultural protocols, including Welcome to Country ceremonies, and provide ongoing education to players, staff, and the wider Storm community.

Highlighting the partnership’s foundation in mutual respect, Wurundjeri Corporation chair and elder, Aunty Annette Xiberras, said: “This partnership with Melbourne Storm reflects a shared commitment to respect and cultural integrity, and we welcome the opportunity to work together to create meaningful opportunities for our people.”

“By strengthening understanding of Wurundjeri culture, we can support positive outcomes for our community and future generations,” Aunty Annette said.

emphasised the importance of these pathways for the club’s institutional growth. “This partnership will help to support meaningful programs and opportunities for First Nations people while also ensuring our players, staff and members continue to learn about and respect the rich history and culture of the Wurundjeri people,” Rodski said.

Rodski further acknowledged the collaborative efforts with Wurundjeri leadership, including Deputy Chair Uncle John Terrick, CEO Mark Harper, and Deputy CEO Uncle Sean Hunter. “Our discussions have been very positive and focused on how we can continue to build stronger pathways and create meaningful opportunities for First Nations people into the future,” he noted.

Key commercial and social initiatives under the partnership include:

Education Pathways: Programs specifically designed to support young people in engaging further with their education.
Health & Wellbeing: The development of men’s health programs tailored for First Nations communities.
Cultural Competency: Mandatory education sessions for Storm staff and players to foster a deeper understanding of Wurundjeri history and heritage.

Strategically, the partnership aligns the Melbourne Storm with the broader objectives of the NRL’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Rockstar Energy Announces Return to NASCAR with 23XI Racing Partnership

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Rockstar Energy has officially announced its return to NASCAR through a high-profile partnership with 23XI Racing and breakout star Tyler Reddick.

The multi-year agreement marks the first in a series of planned investments by the energy drink brand into elite sports performance as it seeks to redefine its “LIVE LOUD™” identity within the global sporting landscape.

The timing of the partnership coincides with a historic run for Reddick, driver of the No. 45 Toyota Camry XSE. Reddick has electrified the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, becoming the first driver in the sport’s 78-year history to win the opening three races, including the Daytona 500.

Highlighting Reddick’s fearless style as a catalyst for the brand’s evolution, senior director of Sports and Music at Rockstar Energy, Steve Mateus, said: “His relentless drive mirrors a mindset of pushing limits, making him a natural extension of a brand that celebrates intensity, individuality, and unapologetic ambition.”

Having secured four victories in the first six rounds, Reddick has established himself as a championship frontrunner and a premier commercial asset for the team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jo1rdan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin.

The Rockstar-branded No. 45 Toyota will make its on-track debut at Talladega Superspeedway on April 26th, with Reddick donning a matching fire suit and helmet.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Reddick , said: “Joining Rockstar Energy now is the right fit for both of us.”

“From day one, it was clear we share that winner-take-all attitude.

“I’m fired up to rep the yellow star with the No. 45 team and bring Rockstar to victory lane this season.”

Emphasising that the deal reflects the team’s commitment to excellence, 23XI team president, Steve Lauletta, added: “Aligning with an athlete and team performing at this level speaks volumes to where the brand is headed in this new chapter.”

From a strategic standpoint, the partnership allows Rockstar to leverage 23XI’s growing cultural influence. Since its debut in 2021, 23XI has been a driver of change within the sport. The team currently features a diverse three-car lineup:

Bubba Wallace (No. 23): The second African American driver to win in the Cup Series, representing 6% of the 34 full-time drivers in the 2026 field.
Tyler Reddick (No. 45): The 2024 Regular Season Champion and current historical record-holder for the 2026 season start.
Riley Herbst (No. 35): The newest addition to the team’s expanded full-time roster.

Lionel Messi Sets New MLS Away Attendance Record in Denver

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Lionel Messi has further solidified his status as North America’s premier commercial draw, helping set a new Major League Soccer (MLS) away attendance record during Inter Miami’s 3-2 victory over the Colorado Rapids on Saturday.

In a move to celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary and accommodate unprecedented ticket demand, the Rapids relocated the fixture from Dick’s Sporting Goods Park to Empower Field at Mile High, the 76,000-seat home of the NFL’s Denver Broncos.

The match attracted a staggering 75,824 spectators, officially becoming the largest home crowd in Colorado Rapids history.

The figure eclipsed the previous away attendance record set just two months ago in February, when 75,673 fans gathered at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to watch the high-profile showdown between Inter Miami’s Messi and LAFC’s Son Heung-min.

On the pitch, Messi delivered on the immense hype, netting a brace to lead the “Herons” to a critical three points. The event now sits as the second-highest single-game attendance in the history of MLS, trailing only the “El Tráfico” derby between the LA Galaxy and LAFC held at the Rose Bowl in July 2023.

Strategic Stadium Relocations Drive Revenue

The record in Denver is the latest evidence of a league-wide strategy to maximise the “Messi Effect” by shifting fixtures to high-capacity NFL and MLB venues.

D.C. United: Relocated their match to M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore), drawing 72,026 fans.
LAFC: Utilised the L.A. Memorial Coliseum to host 75,673 supporters.
New York City FC: Shifted their fixture to Yankee Stadium, attracting a capacity crowd of 45,845.

The 75,824-strong crowd in Colorado also came within striking distance of the all-time attendance record for Empower Field at Mile High across any sport, a benchmark of 77,160 set during a 2007 NFL contest between the Broncos and the Green Bay Packers.

All-Time MLS Attendance Leaders

The Colorado vs. Inter Miami fixture has reshaped the league’s historical leaderboard:

Rank	Matchup	Date	Attendance	Venue
1	LA Galaxy vs. LAFC	July 2023	82,110	Rose Bowl
2	Colorado Rapids vs. Inter Miami	April 2026	75,824	Empower Field
3	LAFC vs. Inter Miami	Feb 2026	75,673	L.A. Coliseum
4	Charlotte FC vs. LA Galaxy	March 2022	74,479	Bank of America Stadium
5	Atlanta United vs. Portland	Dec 2018	73,019	Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Lionel Messi Acquires UE Cornellà in Strategic Return to Catalonia

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Lionel Messi has officially completed a 100% acquisition of UE Cornellà, the Catalonia-based club announced on Thursday, 16 April 2026. The move marks the Inter Miami captain’s first major foray into club ownership in Spain, deepening his lifelong connection to the region where he spent 21 years with FC Barcelona.

The deal, facilitated through a strategic investment plan, focuses on the club’s prestigious youth academy, which has historically produced elite talent such as Jordi Alba, David Raya, and André Onana. By taking full control of the Baix Llobregat institution, Messi aims to preserve and expand its reputation as a premier talent factory.

In an official statement of UE Cornellà, they said: “This move reinforces Messi’s close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia, a connection rooted in his years at FC Barcelona and sustained ever since.”

“Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent,” they said.

Strategic Growth and Local Roots

While UE Cornellà has struggled at the senior level in recent years, dropping to the Tercera RFEF (Spanish fifth division) following consecutive relegations, the acquisition is built on a long-term vision of sustainability and technical infrastructure development.

Youth Development: The “Messi project” will prioritise the academy, leveraging his global network to create a pipeline for emerging players.
Institutional Stability: The takeover provides the club with significant financial backing to professionalise its operations and rise back through the Spanish domestic tiers.
Cultural Legacy: The investment is viewed as a “homecoming” for Messi, securing a permanent professional link to the community that shaped his career.

Messi’s entry into ownership mirrors the path of his Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham and follows the recent move by Cristiano Ronaldo, who acquired a 25% stake in UD Almería. Unlike minority investments common among active stars, Messi’s 100% stake gives him total control over the club’s future direction.

Y Series Named Official Wine Partner for NFL Melbourne Game

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

South Australian wine brand Y Series has been confirmed as the Official Wine Sponsor of the National Football League (NFL) in Australia and New Zealand.

The multi-year agreement marks the first time the NFL has partnered with a wine brand in the Australian market and stands as the largest sporting partnership in Y Series’ history.

The partnership arrives as the NFL prepares for its landmark first-ever regular season game in Australia, which will see the Los Angeles Rams face off against the San Francisco 49ers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, 11 September 2026.

Stating that the partnership is a strategic move to integrate wine into major cultural moments, CEO of Hill-Smith Family Estates, Karl Martin, said: “This partnership with the NFL puts Y Series right where people want us – in big moments, shared rituals and time spent together.”

“It’s about bringing wine into high-energy environments and showing up as part of how people celebrate, connect and unwind, on game day and beyond,” Martin said.

Highlighting the importance of local partnerships as the league expands its international footprint, general manager of NFL Australia and New Zealand, Charlotte Offord, noted: “As we continue building towards our first-ever regular season game this September, we’re proud to be joining forces with Y Series to bring great Australian wine to the heart of game day.”

“With a rapidly growing fan base across the region, this partnership helps us create memorable, local experiences that bring fans together, and enhance how people celebrate the NFL in Australia,” Offord said.

As the Official Wine Partner of the Melbourne Game, Y Series will lead experiential activations and in-game branding, with its range of wines served at the MCG and throughout associated events.

To mark the collaboration, Hill-Smith Family Estates, the family-owned producer behind Y Series, will launch a limited-edition Y Series x NFL range nationally later this year. The brand is also offering a marquee consumer promotion, giving two Australian fans a trip to Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles in February 2027.

Samsung Canada Named Exclusive TV and Mobile Partner of Canada Soccer

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Canada Soccer and Canadian Soccer Media & Entertainment (CSME) have announced a new cornerstone partnership with Samsung Canada.

The multi-year agreement establishes Samsung as the Exclusive and Official TV and Mobile Partner of Canada Soccer, aimed at leveraging advanced technology to enhance the viewing experience for fans as the nation prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Emphasising the role of innovation in fan connection, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Samsung Canada, Pat Bugos, noted: “At Samsung, we’re passionate about using technology to bring fans closer to the moments that matter most.”

“This partnership allows us to deliver immersive viewing experiences that bring the energy and atmosphere of the match into Canadians’ homes, helping fans feel connected to the action, even when they can’t be there in person,” Bugos said.

CSME (formerly Canadian Soccer Business) recently rebranded and restructured its marketing rights to better coordinate the federation’s commercial growth.

Noting that Samsung’s leadership will be vital in deepening fan engagement, Canada Soccer COO and CFO, Erin Crowe, said: “Their leadership in technology and innovation will help deliver more immersive and accessible viewing experiences, bringing supporters closer to the action wherever they are.”

Highlighting the partnership as a benchmark for the sport’s commercial evolution in Canada, chief commercial officer of CSME, Michael Beckerman, added: “By bringing Samsung’s world-class products and visionary spirit to the pitch, we are ensuring that the fastest-growing sport in Canada is supported by a brand that truly understands innovation and performance.”

The partnership integrates Samsung’s ecosystem of AI-powered TVs, smartphones, and tablets into marquee Canada Soccer events and fan environments.

This collaboration launches alongside Samsung’s 2026 product cycle, featuring “Samsung Vision AI” technology designed to deliver immersive match-day atmospheres directly into Canadian homes.

A central component of the launch includes exclusive fan engagement initiatives, such as the “VIP Canada Soccer Experience” contest, offering supporters access to national team matches and official merchandise.

The agreement ensures Samsung technology will be a constant presence across both the Men’s and Women’s National Teams, as well as the TELUS Canadian Championship and Canadian Premier League (CPL) assets.

Coffs Harbour Retains DoorDash National Youth Championships for 2026

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Touch Football Australia, in conjunction with Destination NSW and the City of Coffs Harbour, has today confirmed that the 2026 DoorDash National Youth Championships (DoorDash National Youth Championships ) will return to C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

Scheduled to run from Monday, 28 September to Thursday, 1 October 2026, the event marks the third consecutive year the premier youth tournament has been hosted on the Mid-North Coast.

The tournament remains a significant commercial driver for the region, contributing more than $5 million in economic benefit annually to the New South Wales and Coffs Harbour economies.

As one of the two flagship events on the national touch football calendar, the DoorDash National Youth Championships serves as a critical talent pathway for junior participants, bridging the gap between grassroots competition and elite representative levels.

Expressing the organisation’s appreciation for the ongoing government support, Touch Football Australia CEO, Marcus Ashcroft, said: “The DoorDash National Youth Championships plays such a key role in our sport’s pathways, and we’re grateful for the continued support from Destination NSW and City of Coffs Harbour in what has become a fantastic home for the event.”

“We’re excited to once again showcase the next generation of Touch Football talent on the national stage, and the exceptional facilities and hospitality in Coffs Harbour ensure our participants continue to enjoy a positive experience at the NYC,” Ashcroft said.

The 2025 edition saw a highly competitive showcase of talent, where Queensland Representative School Sport secured the Under-18 Girls title, while NSW Combined Independent Schools claimed a dramatic victory in the Boys division. C

ity of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams highlighted the precinct’s unique ability to host mass-participation events. “The C.ex Coffs International Stadium-anchored sports precinct enables this mass-participation gala to be held at the one venue in a laidback family-friendly city where it’s easy to get around and catch the sights,” Williams said.

Touch Football Australia confirmed it is currently working with strategic partners to secure venues and dates for the subsequent three-year cycle from 2027 to 2029.

For the 2026 event, fans nationwide will be able to access the action via a free, exclusive livestream on the BarTV website and app.