Ministry of Sport

Les Mills International Appoints Jason Paris as Chief Executive

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

Les Mills International has appointed corporate leader Jason Paris as its new CEO, with current managing director Phillip Mills, transitioning into a founder/director role.

Set to commence on October 6, the leadership succession follows a planned three-year stabilisation and reset period led by Phillip Mills following the global disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Paris brings extensive commercial expertise in guiding large customer-centric enterprises through digital and corporate transformations across telecommunications, media, and digital services, having previously spearheaded major rebrand and expansion initiatives for high-profile New Zealand organisations.

Reflecting on his appointment, Jason Paris, said: “It’s an enormous privilege to be joining Les Mills International to help lead the next phase of growth.”

“What Phillip, Jackie and the Mills family have built over many decades is one of New Zealand’s great business success stories.

“I’ve always admired New Zealand brands that have a real impact globally, and Les Mills International has done exactly that.

“It has an outstanding team, an iconic brand and an incredible opportunity ahead.

“Every great business I’ve worked in has one thing in common: obsession over the needs of the customer.

“Les Mills is a great example of this, with an incredible global network of Instructors, club partners and participants.

“I can’t wait to start learning from these amazing people and supporting their success as we accelerate our mission to create a fitter planet,” he said.

Phillip Mills expressed strong confidence in the incoming executive, noting that the company is on a robust financial footing and well-prepared for its next strategic chapter.

Les Mills International founder, Phillip Mills, added: “Jason is an exceptional leader, truly as good as you get, and we’re delighted he’s decided to join us.”

“He brings deep commercial expertise, a modern leadership style, and a clear passion for building high-performing teams and strong cultures.

“I stepped back into the leadership of the business following the departure of our previous CEO, with a clear three-year commitment to complete a strategy reset and return the company to solid growth following the disruption COVID caused across the global gym industry.

“With the company on a strong footing and well-positioned for further expansion, now is the right time for me to hand over leadership to an energetic new CEO who can take us into our next exciting chapter,” Mills said.

With full operational decision-making passing to Paris, the organisation is positioned to accelerate its commercial objectives while maintaining its core mission within the global fitness industry.

The leadership change comes as Les Mills International looks to capitalise on its expanding global footprint across the fitness sector, leveraging Paris’s proven track record in driving customer obsession and scaling international networks.

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London Lions Secure Landmark Multi-Year Partnership with Jordan Brand to Drive Global Growth

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

The London Lions have announced a multi-year partnership with Jordan Brand, establishing the club as the first British professional basketball team to secure an official kit and apparel agreement with the iconic global brand.

Commencing ahead of the 2026–27 season, the partnership will see both the London Lions’ men’s and women’s teams compete in custom Jordan Brand game kits across all domestic fixtures and high-profile European competitions, including their anticipated return to the BKT EuroCup.

Beyond competition, Jordan Brand will actively invest in the club’s extensive youth programs, providing support for the Lions’ talent pathway extending from grassroots academies right through to the professional ranks.

This grassroots integration is specifically designed to leverage Jordan Brand’s unparalleled influence in global sports culture to inspire the next generation of athletes while creating new revenue streams and enhanced community engagement models for the organisation.

The partnership arrives at a pivotal juncture for the London Lions, who are entering an ambitious new phase of development following a clean sweep of domestic silverware.

The club aims to accelerate its commercial growth, expand retail supporter merchandise sales, and cement London as a major hub for competitive European basketball. In addition to on-court apparel, the organisations will collaborate on bespoke community experiences and cultural initiatives throughout the 2026–27 season.

The first official Jordan Brand game kit will be unveiled prior to the commencement of the upcoming season, alongside additional details regarding retail supporter apparel and upcoming commercial activations.

Holman Barnes Group Rescues Central Coast Mariners A-League Women in Eleventh-Hour Takeover

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

The Holman Barnes Group has stepped in with a critical eleventh-hour rescue deal to assume operational control of the Central Coast Mariners A-League Women team, securing the side’s participation in the upcoming season.

The women’s program was previously left in administrative limbo after being excluded from Total Soccer Growth Holdings’ acquisition of the club’s men’s and academy teams in June.

With Holman Barnes’ intervention, the reigning 2024/25 champions now have a two-month window to finalise their playing and coaching squads ahead of the October 16 season kickoff, preserving a vital elite pathway in a region celebrating fifty years of women’s football.

The acquisition broadens the hospitality group’s growing sports investment portfolio, which already features a majority stake in the National Rugby League’s Wests Tigers and a partnership with National Premier Leagues New South Wales club APIA Leichhardt.

Highlighting the alignment of the investment, Holman Barnes group chairman, Dennis Burgess, said: “We’re proud to have played a leading role in securing the future of the Central Coast Mariners’ women’s team.”

“Our Vice Chair Frank Primerano, with decades of strategic involvement in football administration, has played a key role in bringing this together and broadening our sporting footprint, which has been a key strategy of our CEO Daniel Paton and the Board this year.”

“Our Board believes thriving sporting clubs strengthen communities by creating pathways from grassroots participation to elite competition,” Burgess said.

Welcoming the corporate intervention, Central Coast Mayor, Hon. Lawrie McKinna, noted that it gives players and supporters renewed confidence following months of uncertainty.

Furthermore, Holman Barnes Group CEO, Daniel Paton, elaborated on the long-term community and developmental objectives underpinning the move.

“The Board of Holman Barnes Group have unanimously supported this investment with a view that it protects the pathway between community sport and the elite game that inspires the next generation.”

“Whether it’s rugby league, football or any other sport we support, the principle is the same.

“Strong elite teams inspire participation, strong grassroots participation builds stronger communities, and stronger communities produce stronger sporting clubs.

“You simply can’t have one without the other, young players, girls and boys, need something to aspire to.

“They need to know that if they work hard and dream big, there is a pathway from local fields to the highest level of the game internationally.

“The future is extremely bright for this region and community,” Paton stated.

By integrating the Mariners with their existing ties to APIA Leichhardt, Holman Barnes aims to construct a seamless commercial and developmental pipeline connecting grassroots talent directly to professional tiers.

AusTriathlon and City of Gold Coast Open New High Performance Hub

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

AusTriathlon and the City of Gold Coast have opened a new High Performance Hub at the Miami Aquatic Centre. Designed to support the nation’s elite athletes and emerging talent as they target the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the purpose-built facility provides a dedicated environment for training, recovery, and collaboration from various teams.

The opening represents a milestone in the deepening partnership between AusTriathlon and local government, following the establishment of the national organisation’s headquarters in the region.

The facility will serve as the home of the Ascent Academy, supporting more than ninety national pathway athletes and ensuring a consistent, athlete-centred approach that prioritises wellbeing alongside performance excellence.

Praising the infrastructure rollout, and noting the profound impact on developing talent, world champion, Matt Hauser, said: “It’s great the Gold Coast and Triathlon has this facility where athletes can come and train and perform at a high level.”

“I think this hub will really help young triathletes all over the country, especially as we build towards LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032,” Hauser said.

Emphasising the objectives of the investment, AusTriathlon CEO, Tim Harradine, added: “The Gold Coast has become the home of Australian triathlon and we’re proud to further strengthen our connection to the region through the opening of this High Performance Hub.”

“This facility provides athletes and coaches with a dedicated environment where they can train, recover and connect, while helping us build a strong performance culture that supports success on the world stage,” Harradine said.

Echoing the value of the partnership, Gold Coast Mayor, Hon. Tom Tate, concluded: “The Gold Coast offers world-class training conditions, infrastructure and lifestyle.”

“This facility will not only support elite athletes but deliver long-term economic and community benefits for our city,” Mayor Tate said.

Sharpie Signs On as Official Marker of the NBL for Hungry Jack’s NBL27 Season

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

The National Basketball League (NBL) has announced a partnership with writing instrument Sharpie, naming the brand the Official Marker of the NBL for the upcoming Hungry Jack’s NBL27 season.

The collaboration is designed to enhance fan engagement through community-focused activations, autograph opportunities, and interactive experiences that bridge the gap between supporters and elite players.

As the league continues to experience rapid commercial growth and expanding broadcast audiences, the partnership introduces structured sponsorship inventory aimed at cementing brand integration within game-day culture.

Commenting on the partnership, NBL chief growth officer, Samantha Green, said: “We are excited to welcome Sharpie to the NBL family and work with such an iconic brand across the season.”

Expressing his enthusiasm about the partnership, Green, added: “Sharpie is already part of so many memorable NBL moments, whether it is a fan sign, a signed jersey, a basketball or a piece of memorabilia that means something special.”

“NBL fans are among the most connected to their teams, and this partnership gives us a great opportunity to bring fans even closer to the players and teams they love.

“We look forward to working with Sharpie to create some truly memorable and cherished experiences for fans across the league,” Green noted.

For Newell Brands, the partnership provides a platform to expand its market presence across Australian sport.

Highlighting the alignment of the collaboration, Newell Brands head of marketing ANZ, Tarin Olivier, said: “Sharpie has always been at the heart of unforgettable fan moments, from bold signs held in the stands, to the autographs that become lifelong keepsakes.”

“Partnering with the NBL allows us to deepen that connection and bring even more energy, creativity and passion to the game-day experience.”

“This collaboration comes at a time of significant growth for Sharpie, and partnering with a league that continues to expand its reach and influence creates meaningful opportunities for both brands.

“We are excited to work with the NBL to elevate how fans engage with the sport they love while reinforcing Sharpie’s role in the moments that matter most,” he said.

Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Jim Sarantinos to Step Down at Conclusion of 2026 Season

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

The Parramatta Eels have announced that chief executive officer, Jim Sarantinos, will step down from his position at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season, concluding more than a decade of executive service with the club.

Having joined the organisation in 2016 and served as CEO for the past seven years, Sarantinos spearheaded a transformation that repositioned the Eels as a commercial powerhouse in the National Rugby League.

Under his stewardship, the club achieved record membership growth, tripled its commercial revenue, established the Eels Foundation and Eels Institute, delivered a world-class Centre of Excellence, and returned to the NRL Grand Final stage in 2022. This financial stability enabled significant investment across the club’s men’s, women’s, and Eels Academy football programs while embedding a strong corporate culture built on integrity and community engagement.

Reflecting on his decade-long tenure, Sarantinos highlighted the shared achievements and strong foundations established during his leadership.

“After 10 years with the Parramatta Eels National Rugby League Club, I have decided to step down as CEO at the end of this season.”

“The Eels have meant so much to me, both professionally and personally, and I will move on incredibly proud that I leave the Club in a better place than how I found it.

“Since joining the Club in 2016, we have strengthened its foundations, returned to the NRL Grand Final in 2022, achieved record membership, tripled commercial revenue, invested significantly in our football and community programs, and delivered a world-class Centre of Excellence.

“But the part I will be most proud of is the people and culture we have built along the way.”

“I am incredibly grateful to our Boards, staff, players, coaches, volunteers, partners, members and fans for their support, friendship and belief over the past decade.

“The Eels will always be a very special part of my life. I am proud to have played a part in its journey and excited to watch its next chapter unfold.

“And while closing this chapter is difficult, I am genuinely excited about what the next chapter of my own career holds.

“I look forward to taking everything I have learnt over the past 10 years into whatever comes next.

“Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey,” he said.

The Eels Board acknowledged Sarantinos’ impact in stabilising and modernising the franchise following a turbulent era in the mid-2010s.

Sarantinos will remain fully committed to his operational responsibilities through the remainder of the 2026 campaign while the Board conducts a thorough search for the club’s next Chief Executive Officer.

Tennis Australia Marketing Executive Britt Wickes Appointed Executive Director of Tropfest

Posted on August 14, 2026August 14, 2026 by Courtney

Tropfest, Australia’s iconic short film festival, has announced the appointment of former Tennis Australia event marketing chief Britt Wickes as its new executive director.

In her new role, Wickes will oversee the organisation’s audience, brand, and commercial strategy, including corporate partnerships and revenue generation. The appointment comes as the festival looks to build on its triumphant return to Sydney earlier this year following a lengthy seven-year hiatus, leveraging commercial partnerships and year-round event expansions to secure its long-term financial stability.

Wickes joins Tropfest after spending six years at Tennis Australia, where she managed high-profile event marketing and transformation strategies, including the development of the Australian Open’s successful “Hits Different” brand platform.

Her background in managing large-scale cultural and sporting properties positions her to drive growth for the not-for-profit arts organisation, which is supported by a high-profile board including Peter V. V’landys, Lachlan Murdoch, and actor Bryan Brown, alongside a commercial partnership with the New South Wales Government.

Reflecting on her transition from elite sport to creative arts, Wickes emphasised the shared cultural DNA between major Australian events.

“Across nearly 20 years of my career, I’ve always been drawn to brands and experiences that sit at the intersection of culture, creativity, entertainment and audiences, so Tropfest feels like an incredibly exciting next chapter.”

“For me, this isn’t really a move from sport to film, it’s a move from one iconic Australian cultural event to another,” She said.

Founded in 1993 by filmmaker John Polson in a Darlinghurst cafe, Tropfest evolved from a modest local screening into a massive national institution before ceasing operations in 2019.

Following its successful relaunch as a not-for-profit entity in Centennial Park in February 2026, the festival is entering a commercial development phase. Polson welcomed the appointment as a clear statement of intent regarding the organisation’s future ambitions.

In a statement to Mumbrella, Polson said: “Over the past year, our not-for-profit board and broader team have worked incredibly hard to relaunch this beloved and iconic Australian event.”

“Now we have the opportunity to build on everything people love about Tropfest and create the festival Australian filmmakers – and audiences – need for the future,” He further noted.

North Melbourne Appoints Medibank CEO David Koczkar to Board of Directors

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

The North Melbourne Football Club has announced the appointment of Medibank CEO David Koczkar to its Board of Directors.

Bringing extensive executive leadership, corporate governance, and commercial expertise to the organisation, Koczkar joins the club as a casual appointee before standing for formal election at the upcoming annual general meeting later this year. This addition bolsters the club’s administrative leadership as both its AFL and AFLW programs target long-term sustainable growth, financial resilience, and competitive success in an increasingly complex national sporting environment.

Koczkar, a lifelong supporter and member with deep emotional ties to the institution, joins an established board led by president Dr Sonja Hood AM, vice-president Nick Dowling, Andrew Harris, Andrew Swallow, Dr Harry Unglik, Selina Lightfoot, Rodney Piltz, and Suzana Ristevski. His corporate background leading one of Australia’s premier health enterprises provides the club with vital strategic guidance, risk management acumen, and stakeholder engagement capabilities that are crucial for modern sports administration.

Highlighting the immense value of Koczkar’s professional background alongside his authentic, lifelong connection to the club’s membership base, North Melbourne president, Dr Sonja Hood, said: “David is an outstanding person whose track record in business, governance and people leadership will be a tremendous asset to our board.”

“Importantly, David also understands what North Melbourne means to its members and supporters. He has a lifelong connection to our club and understands who we are,” Dr Hood said.

Reflecting on his appointment to the board of the team he has followed since childhood, Koczkar expressed pride and enthusiasm for contributing to its future trajectory.

“North Melbourne has played an important role in my life since I was a young boy.”

“I’ve always admired the club’s values, resilience and connection with its members, its history and its community.

“I join the Board at an exciting time for our AFL and AFLW programs.

“I’m also excited by the opportunity to contribute to the club’s future as we continue to strive for long-term growth and success,” Koczkar said.

Russell Westbrook Announces Retirement After 18-Season

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

Russell Westbrook has announced his retirement from the National Basketball Association after 18 seasons across seven teams. The 37-year-old released an emotional social media farewell video narrated by actor Michael B. Jordan, confirming he is stepping away from the game on his own terms despite receiving offseason interest from multiple clubs.

Westbrook closed his career with a remarkable resume, highlighted by his 2017 Most Valuable Player award and an all-time record 209 career triple-doubles. Entering the league as the fourth overall pick in the 2008 draft by the Seattle SuperSonics before the franchise relocated to Oklahoma City, Westbrook spent his foundational years anchoring the Thunder. He partnered with Kevin Durant and James Harden to reach the 2012 NBA Finals and later became the first player since Oscar Robertson in 1962 to average a triple-double across a full campaign, a feat he achieved four times.

Reflecting on his impact to the league, Oklahoma City general manager, Sam Presti, paid tribute to his fierce competitive spirit.

“Russell Westbrook is the ultimate competitor.”

“His internal belief and unbridled fearlessness helped establish the foundation of our organisation from day one in 2008 and he elevated the confidence and inspired our community in every year thereafter,” Presti said in a statement.

Following his tenure in Oklahoma City, Westbrook experienced a winding journeyman chapter, playing for the Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and finally the Sacramento Kings.

In his final campaign, he started 58 games for Sacramento, averaging 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds while establishing himself as the premier rebounding point guard in league history and joining LeBron James as the only players with 25,000 points and 10,000 assists.

Although the Kings and Washington Wizards explored contract discussions this offseason, Westbrook chose to walk away rather than accept a reduced developmental role.

His agent, Jeff Schwartz, highlighted broader roster construction issues impacting veteran athletes under the league’s collective bargaining agreement financial parameters.

Addressing his departure through a cinematic retrospective, Westbrook captioned his announcement with a poignant reflection on his playing days.

“Sometimes you don’t even know when you’ve already watched the end.”

“You had to be there. And now it’s over,” Westbrook wrote.

Leaving the game fifth in all-time assists and 14th in scoring with 27,176 points, Westbrook retires as one of the most uniquely ferocious competitors the sport has ever witnessed.

Rugby Australia and Queensland Government Lock In Multi-Year International Test Rugby Pipeline for Townsville

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

Rugby Australia and the Queensland Government have announced a multi-year partnership securing a golden era of international Test rugby for North Queensland, establishing Townsville as a premier global sports and tourism hub through 2030.

Under the agreement, Queensland Country Bank Stadium will host Wallabies Test matches against Argentina in 2027 and 2030, and Georgia in 2029. These fixtures complement Townsville’s upcoming hosting of four matches at the Rugby World Cup next year, alongside a broader commitment ensuring the Queensland Reds play at least one regional match each season for the next six years and Brisbane hosts the Springboks in 2028.

Highlighting the profound importance of investing in regional communities, Rugby Australia CEO, Phil Waugh, said: “Since our first Test match 127 years ago, regional Queenslanders have proudly represented Australia on the international stage.”

“It is therefore extremely pleasing to be bringing more Test matches than ever before to one of world rugby’s greatest talent nurseries with the valued support of our partners in the Queensland Government.”

“Following the success of last year’s The Rugby Championship Test against Argentina, and excitement high for Saturday’s clash with Japan, Rugby Australia is delighted to confirm three additional Wallabies Test matches for Townsville in 2027 (Argentina), 2029 (Georgia) and 2030 (Argentina),” Waugh said.

State government leaders emphasised the deliberate economic strategy behind securing high-profile fixtures.

Queensland Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Hon. Tim Mander, underscored the community and economic rationale.

“We want Queensland to be the home of sport and the events capital of Australia and that’s why we’re bringing the best of sport to all Queenslanders.”

“We also know when kids see the best players first-hand, they are inspired to get out and want to play the game,” Mander stated.

Tourism Minister, Hon. Andrew Powell, noted the broader financial benefits for regional enterprises.

“These international rugby fixtures strengthen Queensland’s position as the events capital of Australia, attracting visitors, filling hotels, supporting local businesses, and driving economic activity across the region,” Powell affirmed.

The commercial and tourism implications are extensive, designed to deliver a sustained economic uplift, fill local accommodation providers, and drive grassroots participation across regional talent nurseries.

Football Australia Delivers Landmark Futsal Coach Education Courses in Tasmania

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

Football Australia has achieved a milestone in the development of indoor football by delivering its first-ever nationally recognised futsal coach education courses in Tasmania.

Staged in Hobart from 20 to 24 July, the program featured both the Foundation of Futsal and Football Australia/AFC Futsal Level 1 courses, providing local coaches with critical access to nationally aligned development pathways without the barrier of interstate travel.

Led by Football Australia Futsal Coach Education Lead and Futsalroos head coach, Miles Downie, the week-long initiative combined theoretical frameworks with practical on-court learning, focusing heavily on modern coaching principles, player-centred environments, and the specific tactical demands of the sport.

TA major outcome of the program was the rigorous training and certification of Jayden Hey as a Foundation of Futsal Tutor, marking the first time Tasmania has possessed its own local coach educator capability. This local infrastructure ensures entry-level courses can be continually delivered within the state, significantly lowering administrative barriers and fostering long-term participation growth across clubs and communities.

Reflecting on the broader momentum, Miles Downie emphasised the nature of the initiative for the Tasmanian sporting landscape.

“This is a landmark moment for futsal in Tasmania, bringing Football Australia’s futsal coach education pathway to Hobart for the first time provides local coaches with access to nationally recognised development opportunities and helps build the foundations for future growth,”

“The passion shown by the coaches was outstanding, there is a genuine desire within Tasmania to grow futsal and create better experiences for players.

” Coach education is one of the most powerful ways to support that growth.

“Developing local coach educators is critical for long-term success. Jayden has demonstrated a strong commitment to futsal and a real passion for supporting coaches.

“Having a locally trained Foundation of Futsal Tutor is a huge boost for Tasmania and will help ensure coach education opportunities continue to grow,” Downie said.

Cadillac Formula 1 Team Appoints Marcin Budkowski as Team Principal

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

The Cadillac Formula 1 Team has announced a leadership transition, appointing veteran motorsport executive Marcin Budkowski as its new Team Principal.

The appointment marks an evolution for the organisation as it shifts from foundation building into competitive operational growth following the mid-season summer break. Budkowski succeeds Graeme Lowdon, who helped establish the team’s footprint during its inaugural campaign.

Highlighting the intent behind the change as the organisation targets long-term competitiveness under strict financial parameters, CEO of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, Dan Towriss, said: “Marcin’s appointment marks another important step in the continued evolution of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team.”

“From the beginning, our goal has not been simply to participate in Formula 1, but to build a next-generation team capable of competing at the very front.

“As we enter this new era for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, Marcin brings exceptional F1 experience, technical expertise and strategic leadership that will strengthen our organisation and help us develop the winning mindset, tools and processes required for long-term success.”

“We’re grateful to Graeme Lowdon for his leadership and the role he played in forming the Cadillac Formula 1 Team from the ground up.

“His contributions helped establish a strong foundation in our build-up phase, and we thank him for his commitment and wish him well,” Towriss said.

Budkowski brings more than two decades of industry experience across Prost, Ferrari, McLaren, the International Automobile Federation, and Renault/Alpine.

Commenting on his appointment, Budkowski, shared: “Cadillac Formula 1 Team has an extraordinary foundation and ambition.”

“This is a phase of huge opportunity for the team, one that will be defined by a clear objective: maximising car development within the cost cap and turning every team function on to compete.”

“That means building an elite organization with a winning mindset, driven, relentless in the face of setbacks, obsessed with detail and process, and able to execute with precision on race day.

“My focus will be on aligning our people, tools and information flow so the right decisions are made quickly, and the performance of the car improves every time we go racing.

“It is a privilege to be leading Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s on-track efforts, starting in Zandvoort next weekend,” he said.

The team returns to the track at the Dutch Grand Prix, leveraging early-season data to accelerate its performance curve.

Los Angeles Lakers Agree to Record-Breaking USD 12.5 Billion Sale to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

The Los Angeles Lakers have entered into an agreement to be sold to businessmen Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for USD12.5 billion (AUD17.7 billion), a landmark valuation in global sports franchise history.

The transaction sees the group pivot away from a proposed Las Vegas expansion bid to acquire the iconic NBA franchise from Mark Walter, who only secured a controlling interest from the Buss family last year at a then-record USD 10 billion valuation. The deal underscores the rapidly escalating commercial value of elite sports assets, positioning the Lakers as the most expensive sports organisation ever sold.

Kushner and Iger emphasised their vision for the storied club in a joint statement.

“As lifelong NBA fans, we are deeply honoured for the opportunity to become stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world.”

“We have immense respect for the leadership and vision of Jerry and Jeanie Buss.”

“Our long-term commitment is to build on that foundation, compete at the highest level, and serve this extraordinary team, its fans, and the city of Los Angeles,” Kushner and Iger stated.

Explaining the rapid progression of the negotiations, Iger detailed how the opportunity materialised unexpectedly during their pursuit of a Nevada-based expansion team.

“We were involved in pursuing the new franchise in Vegas. And while that happened, it was suggested to us that maybe Mark Walter would be interested in selling his stake in the Lakers.”

“And we immediately decided that given the value of the franchise and the iconic nature of the team, that we would be really smart to pursue it.

“The deal came together in three days,” Iger told the California Post. “It’s that simple,” Iger said.

Mark Walter reflected on his brief tenure at the helm of the franchise while retaining his extensive broader sports portfolio through TWG Global, which includes Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers and Premier League club Chelsea.

“Owning the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the great honours of my life — an extraordinary investment, but what I will carry with me is the community, the fans, and a city that treats this team as family.”

“I am grateful to Jeanie Buss, the Buss family, the players, and the staff for welcoming me into this chapter. The Lakers belong to Los Angeles, and I have every confidence the best is still ahead,” Walter said in a statement.

On the court, franchise player Luka Doncic, expressed enthusiasm regarding the ownership shift as the club prepares for the campaign.

“Being a Laker means everything to me, and I’m excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA.

“I’ve gotten used to big changes over these last few years, but I know that no matter what, there is no limit to the potential of this iconic franchise.

“I look forward to meeting Josh and Bob so we can get to work building something special in LA together,” Doncic posted on X.

The transaction remains subject to formal approval by the NBA’s Board of Governors.

Japan Professional Football League Partners with IMG

Posted on August 13, 2026 by Courtney

The Japan Professional Football League (J.LEAGUE) has announced a partnership with global sports marketing agency IMG to spearhead its international sponsorship strategy and sales.

The collaboration aims to accelerate the league’s global commercial expansion and connect J.League with new worldwide brand opportunities following over a decade of concentrated growth and audience building across Asia.

Under the agreement, IMG will advise the competition on a renewed global brand structure, develop lucrative new brand categories, and secure international commercial partnerships to expand the organisation’s footprint well beyond traditional Asian markets, driving long-term enterprise value.

Emphasising the impact of the alliance on the competition’s future trajectory, J.League chairman, Yoshikazu Nonomura, said: “Partnering with IMG marks a significant milestone in expanding J.League’s global footprint.”

“Combining IMG’s deep expertise with J.League will allow us to create meaningful opportunities for our partners and the league,” Nonomura said.

Echoing this outlook, SVP and managing director of Football at IMG, Adolfo Bara, highlighted the exceptional commercial potential embedded within Japanese football.

“J.League represents many of the qualities that make football such a powerful global platform: authenticity, community, long-term vision and excellence.”

“Japanese football and its players, clubs and wider ecosystem continue to grow in relevance and recognition around the world.

“We believe J.League has all the ingredients to become one of the leading leagues in world football in the years ahead. We look forward to helping bring the league’s story to global brand partners at such an exciting time in its evolution,” Bara noted.

The collaboration successfully integrates J.League’s robust cultural and sporting foundation with IMG’s peerless global football expertise and extensive commercial network.

In addition, IMG already manages global sponsorship sales for premier international properties, including the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, CONMEBOL Libertadores and Sudamericana, and prominent European clubs like Internazionale Milano.

Jonas Brothers to Headline Halftime Show for 2026 NFL Melbourne Game

Posted on August 13, 2026August 13, 2026 by Courtney

The National Football League (NFL) has announced that pop powerhouse, the Jonas Brothers, will headline the landmark halftime show during the 2026 NFL Melbourne Game.

Staged at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday, September 11, the match between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams will stream live globally on Netflix in partnership with the Victorian State Government and Visit Victoria.

From a commercial overview, the announcement reinforces the league’s international expansion strategy, leveraging premier entertainment assets to drive global digital viewership and local economic activity.

Emphasising the importance of the production scale, senior director of global game presentation and entertainment – NFL, Tim Tubito, said: “Bringing the first-ever regular season game to Australia is a landmark moment for the league, and we are committed to creating an entertainment experience that reflects the scale and significance of the occasion.”

“The Jonas Brothers are global entertainers whose music connects across generations, making them the ideal artists to help us celebrate this historic game in Melbourne.

“We look forward to delivering a memorable halftime performance for our fans in Australia and those watching around the world,” Tubito said.

Highlighting the cultural impact of securing elite global talent, NFL general manager for Australia and New Zealand, Charlotte Offord, added: “The Jonas Brothers are global superstars with an incredible ability to bring people together through music, making them the perfect addition to Australia’s first-ever regular season NFL game.”

Reflecting on the upcoming economic drive of the event, Victorian Minister for Major Events, Hon. Anthony Carbines, noted: “Melbourne will showcase the very best Victoria has to offer to tens of millions of viewers around the world.”

“Epic events like the NFL cement Victoria as the sporting and cultural capital of Australia, and support thousands of jobs across the state,” Hon Carbines said.

ns alongside Netflix global distribution and Seven Network domestic coverage.

Expressing their enthusiasm, the band shared a joint statement: “We couldn’t be more excited to perform at halftime during the NFL’s first-ever regular season game in Australia.”

“Playing at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in front of such passionate Australian fans is an incredible honor.”

“We can’t wait to be part of this historic moment and celebrate with everyone in the stadium and watching around the world,” they shared.

The partnership network features American Express sponsoring key on-site activation.