Page 2 – Ministry of Sport

West Coast Eagles Announce Collaboration with SABA

Posted on December 18, 2025December 19, 2025 by Courtney

The West Coast Eagles have announced a multi-year agreement with premium Australian fashion label SABA.

The partnership will see the iconic brand become the club’s preferred supplier, specifically tasked with delivering the female corporate uniform from the 2026 season.

West Coast Eagles CEO, Don Pyke, noted that the partnership is centred on enhancing the confidence and professional identity of the club’s female representatives.

“We’re thrilled to partner with SABA to deliver our female club uniform from 2026.”

“SABA brings a modern style, making sure our women look smart and feel confident when representing our club at corporate events and match days,” Pyke said.

Emphasising that the partnership is built on shared values of quality and resilience, general manager at SABA, Lucinda Grice, said: “At SABA, we design with purpose and care, creating quality, hardworking pieces that stand the test of time.”

“It has been a pleasure to provide a uniform that feels true to the club and reflects the way their team shows up every day,” Grice said.

This alignment highlights the Eagles’ ongoing commitment to professional excellence off the field, ensuring staff and executives maintain a sophisticated aesthetic during high-stakes corporate engagements and match-day hospitality.

SABA, a label synonymous with modern, purpose-driven design, was selected for its ability to reflect the elite standards of one of Australia’s most recognisable sporting organisations.

The agreement places a significant emphasis on the brand’s ability to provide high-quality, durable apparel that meets the rigorous demands of the AFL’s commercial calendar.

From a logistical and community-engagement perspective, the partnership has been heavily supported by the SABA Claremont Quarter store.

The local team was instrumental in the granular details of the rollout, including bespoke styling, sizing, and quantity management, ensuring a seamless integration into the club’s operations.

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Barstool Sports Secures Netflix Partnership for Video Distribution of Flagship Podcasts

Posted on December 18, 2025January 8, 2026 by Courtney

Barstool Sports has confirmed a new distribution partnership with Netflix that will see video versions of three of its flagship podcasts become exclusive to the global streaming platform from next year.

Under the agreement, video content for Pardon My Take, Spittin’ Chiclets and The Ryan Russillo Show will be available exclusively on Netflix, while audio formats will continue to be distributed through existing podcast platforms. Financial terms and contract length were not disclosed.

For Netflix, it represents a continued expansion into creator-led and sports-adjacent content beyond traditional scripted programming, following recent investments in live sport, documentaries and unscripted formats.

For Barstool, the partnership provides access to Netflix’s global subscriber base while allowing the company to retain its established audio distribution and advertising model.

Barstool founder, Dave Portnoy, framed the agreement as part of the company’s broader evolution in content delivery.

Announcing the deal, Portnoy said Barstool was “proud to partner with one of the best and breed companies,” positioning the Netflix agreement as a strategic step in expanding how audiences engage with its most recognisable shows.

By keeping audio distribution unchanged, Barstool preserves its existing revenue streams from podcast advertising and sponsorship, while the Netflix-exclusive video layer opens up a new audience and potential long-term value through platform exposure rather than direct-to-consumer monetisation.

The selection of Pardon My Take, Spittin’ Chiclets and The Ryan Russillo Show reflects Barstool’s focus on properties with proven scale, consistent output and strong engagement across sports, pop culture and commentary.

Collectively, the three podcasts account for a substantial share of Barstool’s total listenership and brand recognition, making them logical entry points for a premium distribution partnership.

While it remains unclear whether additional Barstool properties could be added in future, the partnership focuses a broader shift in the sports media landscape, where major streamers are positioning themselves as destinations not just for live events and documentaries, but for ongoing, creator-led sports conversation.

Melbourne Victory Extends Partnership with Maple Living

Posted on December 18, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

Melbourne Victory has announced that premier home builder Maple Living has not only renewed its status as a Premier Partner but has also signed on as the foundation sponsor for the club’s inaugural NPLW program.

The extension marks the fourth consecutive year of collaboration between the two organisations.

Emphasising the importance of corporate stability as the club expands its competitive footprint, Melbourne Victory managing director, Caroline Carnegie, said: “It is wonderful to have Maple Living back as a Premier Partner of the Club.”

“Our partnership was established in early 2022 and has continued to strengthen ever since.”

“Heading into our fourth year, we are thrilled to now have Maple Living as a key partner of our NPLW program. It is an exciting time as we strive for success across both A-League competitions and our academies,” Carnegie said.

Director, Anthony Wardan, noted that the collaboration has been “incredibly rewarding” and cited a desire to deepen the connection with the club’s supporter base as a primary driver for the expansion.

By securing a front-of-shirt partner for a new developmental tier before its first match demonstrates the strong market value of the Victory brand.

Rugby Australia launches Super Rugby Next Gen competition in 2026

Posted on December 18, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

Rugby Australia has announced a restructuring of its developmental architecture with the launch of the Super Rugby Next Gen competition, set to debut in February 2026.

The new three-week tournament is designed to replace the existing Super Rugby U19s format.

Strategically, the competition has been positioned to serve as a critical selection and preparation window for the Australia U20s program. By scheduling the tournament for early February, Rugby Australia has aligned its domestic talent identification with the international calendar, specifically the Rugby Championship U20s in April and the World Rugby U20 Championship, which will be staged in Georgia in July 2026.

On the other note, while the competition remains focused on the U20 age bracket, Rugby Australia has introduced a tactical flexibility allowing clubs to field over-age players. This hybrid model is intended to increase the physical intensity of the matches, ensuring that emerging talent is “battle-hardened” before entering the rigorous international window.

Highlighting the strategic intent behind the move, Rugby Australia general manager of Men’s High Performance and Competitions, Ben Whitaker, said: “From a high performance perspective, Super Rugby Next Gen is an opportunity for the best emerging talent in our Super Rugby programs to test themselves ahead of another big year for the Australia U20s and Super Rugby clubs.”

Every match of the Super Rugby Next Gen series will be streamed live via the Rugby.com.au YouTube channel, providing a global platform for the code’s most recognisable rising stars.

The tournament is scheduled to kick off on February 7 in Sydney, with the defending U19 champions, the NSW Waratahs, taking on the Western Force.

The opening round continues the following day in Canberra, where the ACT Brumbies will host the Queensland Reds.

JumpShot Secures Investors Ahead of 2026 Series A

Posted on December 18, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

Sports-tech firm JumpShot has reinforced its investor registry, confirming that Zubin Antia and Sean Lin have joined the company’s latest funding round.

The move comes as the organisation accelerates its transition from foundational development to market activation, specifically targeting a formal Series A capital raise in 2026.

Co-owner at BL Development Group, Antia, has a background in multi-market hospitality expansion, brings expertise in “experiential” consumer brands, a sector increasingly vital to sports-tech companies looking to bridge the gap between physical venues and digital engagement.

Commenting on the new investors and how it affects the company, JumpShot ,CEO Derrick Mayes, said: “Every leader we bring onto our team sharpens our ability to scale with intention.”

In addition, Lin’s expertise in EBITDA improvement and revenue growth across technology and software sectors will likely be leveraged to ensure the company’s go-to-market execution meets the rigorous requirements of institutional investors during the 2026 Series A.

This focus on monetisation is critical as the company seeks to move its “CourtSuite” platform from a proprietary concept to a commercially viable ecosystem.

The company is currently preparing for the “CourtSuite Summit,” a private event held in partnership with global engineering and manufacturing firm TAIT.

This summit is designed to provide stakeholders with a first-look at the patented basketball ecosystem, highlighting the “fan-to-player” connectivity that JumpShot believes will drive its future content rights and licensing revenue.

As the sports technology landscape becomes increasingly crowded with gamification tools, JumpShot’s strategy relies on building a defensible infrastructure.

By layering this new capital with creative partnerships, the organisation is positioning itself not just as a hardware provider, but as a lifestyle and media property capable of shifting fan interaction at the grassroots and entertainment levels.

360 Hoops Targets 2026 for National Market Entry

Posted on December 18, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

As youth sports participation costs rise and facility availability remains a bottleneck for growth, US-based 360 Hoops has announced a formal commercial rollout for 2026.

The company, which specialises in a patented three-basket hardware system and a proprietary 3v3v3 gameplay format, is positioning itself to address the primary pain point for facility operators: revenue density per square metre.

The pivot from prototype to national property follows a 2025 validation phase that included visibility on ESPN’s “The Ocho” and integration into US youth development programs.

By allowing five units to be deployed on a single standard basketball court, the system can support up to 60 active athletes simultaneously, a six-fold increase over traditional 5v5 training sessions.

Co-founder of 360 Hoops, Anthony Gomez, noted that the value proposition for club directors and private complexes hinges on this spatial efficiency.

“It really comes down to one question: how much value can you generate per square foot?” Gomez said.

The business model is built on vertical integration, combining high-margin unit sales with long-term revenue pathways including sanctioned tournament rights, licensing, and brand partnerships.

This “ecosystem” approach seeks to create a defensible category that insulates the brand from competitors—a tactic often seen in the rapid commercialisation of sports like pickleball and padel.

The organisation’s credibility is supported by the involvement of Mike Brey, an assistant coach for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, who serves as an investor and advisor.

His presence suggests a focus on ensuring the technical skills developed in the 360-degree format are transferable to the traditional game, a necessity for long-term adoption by governing bodies and schools.

With a Year 1 target of 30 markets, the company plans to establish flagship complex partnerships before expanding into schools and community parks.

The non-stop 14-minute game format offers a high-density content opportunity that aligns with current trends in fast-paced, urban sports consumption.

NBL Group Promotes Alex Hamilton as Chief Product Officer

Posted on December 18, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

The National Basketball League (NBL) has strengthened its executive leadership team with the promotion of Alex Hamilton to Chief Product Officer for the NBL Group.

The move signals a consolidation of the league’s most critical commercial pillars, as Hamilton takes charge of an expanded portfolio encompassing product development, fan growth, marketing, technology, government relations, and events.

Reflecting on her appointment, Hamilton expressed her focus on the league’s trajectory and collaborative culture.

“Excited to share that I’ve taken on the role of Chief Product Officer for the NBL Group, driving an expanded portfolio across product, fan growth, marketing, technology, government and events.”

“Looking forward to this next step and continuing to work with a fabulous team, our clubs, partners and stakeholders to help shape the next phase of growth,” Hamilton said.

This “all-in-one” portfolio approach is designed to streamline how the league engages with its rapidly expanding domestic and international fan base.

In her new position, Hamilton will be responsible for overseeing the league’s technological infrastructure and marketing strategies, ensuring that the NBL’s commercial products remain competitive in a crowded sports and entertainment market.

The inclusion of government relations and events in her remit further highlights the league’s focus on securing infrastructure support and expanding its footprint through marquee domestic and international fixtures.

Queensland Rugby Union Secures Ford Australia

Posted on December 17, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) has announced a partnership with Ford Australia as the Official Automotive Partner of the QRU and the Queensland Reds for a minimum of three years.

This agreement immediately strengthens the QRU’s financial base and its suite of commercial partners, leveraging the synergy between the two recognisable brands, both boasting over a century of legacy.

Commenting on the partnership, CEO of Ford Australia, Andrew Birkic, noted: “We are excited to become the Official Automotive Partner of the Queensland Rugby Union, reinforcing our commitment to Queensland rugby and its communities.”

Emphasising the alignment and honour of the deal, QRU chief executive, David Hanham, added: “We are thrilled to be embarking on this exciting journey with an iconic partner, Ford Australia.”

“This partnership unites two iconic brands with rich histories and a commitment to excellence and innovation.

“Together, we will build a best-in-class partnership.

“Similarly to when Bank of Queensland committed to us earlier this year, we’ve been able to identify a prospective partner a long way out and work with them to demonstrate who we are and what we stand for, and pleasingly, it’s resonated with Ford Australia,” Hanman said.

The value of the partnership is multifaceted, encompassing brand visibility, operational efficiency, and fan engagement:

The Ford logo will be proudly displayed on the Reds’ playing shorts, a key broadcast asset.

Additionally, the branding will feature on the shoulder of the Coach Media Polo and the collar of Queensland Reds Under-15s, U16s and U19s training and playing jerseys, embedding the Ford brand across the entire Queensland rugby development program.

The partnership provides direct operational benefits to the organisation, with QRU staff receiving a fleet of F-150 vehicles and operational staff utilising Reds-branded Transit Vans for equipment transport.

The program includes provisions for Ford to “activate on Reds match days,” deliver “Fan Days featuring community clinics and Reds player appearances,” and produce branded social media content.

The long-term commitment from Ford joins an outstanding suite of renewed and new commercial partners, including Principal Partner BMS Group and the recent naming rights deal with Sumo Energy, signaling strong market confidence in the QRU and Reds organisation.

North Queensland Cowboys Group Acquire CBD Car Park

Posted on December 17, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

The North Queensland Cowboys Group has purchased the Metro Quays multistorey car park on Ogden Street in Townsville.

This acquisition is explicitly designed to enhance the convenience and quality of the fan experience for club members and supporters, while simultaneously playing a pivotal role in the revitalisation of the Townsville Central Business District (CBD).

Emphasising the strategic alignment between the commercial investment and customer satisfaction, Cowboys Leagues Club general manager, Clint Williams, said: “We’re excited this acquisition will make it easier and more enjoyable for our members, supporters, and guests to visit not only the Leagues Club and Queensland Country Bank Stadium but the CBD in general.”

The asset purchase, described as another exciting step in revitalising our CBD and enhancing the game day experience, involves comprehensive planned upgrades.

These facility improvements will address core operational areas, including security, lighting, signage, and accessibility.

The aim is to transform the site into a high-utility, multipurpose asset capable of serving three distinct customer bases: Cowboys Leagues Club visitors, stadium fans (Queensland Country Bank Stadium), and patrons attending local events.

By controlling this vital piece of transit infrastructure, the organisation minimises external logistical friction and maximises the ease of access for its high-volume event days.

This investment underscores the club’s robust commercial program and its broader commitment to regional economic development.

By directly controlling and upgrading this infrastructure, the Cowboys are better able to improve logistics for large-scale events, which maximise both fan engagement and the overall financial and social honour the club provides to the region.

The organisation is actively fulfilling its stated goal to play our part in creating a more vibrant and accessible city centre for everyone.

Essendon Football Club CEO Craig Vozzo Steps Down

Posted on December 17, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

Essendon Football Club has announced the departure of its chief executive officer, Craig Vozzo, who has chosen to step down to relocate to South Australia and prioritise family commitments.

Vozzo concludes his tenure after his initial three-year contract, initiating a critical governance transition for the AFL club as it seeks to maintain recent structural momentum.

Vozzo’s departure comes at a period where Essendon claims to have established strong foundations across its football programs and commercial operations.

Club President, Andrew Welsh, affirmed the CEO’s impact, noting Vozzo’s “deep understanding of football has been pivotal in reshaping our football programs, which underwent significant transformation under his leadership.”

Welsh confirmed the Board has commenced a “thorough process to identify our next CEO,” seeking a candidate with the necessary “blend of leadership capability, strategic vision, and cultural alignment.” Chief Operating Officer Nick Ryan will assume the acting CEO role during this period.

Furthermore, the club is attempting to mitigate the loss of Vozzo’s specific operational expertise.

Welsh revealed that Essendon is actively exploring options to retain him in a consultancy capacity, specifically within the crucial areas of list management and recruiting.

This suggests that while Vozzo’s administrative leadership role is ending, the club recognises the unique, non-transferable value of his football operations acumen and the potential instability his complete exit could cause in the high-stakes football department.

His exit necessitates the Board to find a new leader capable of building on the established operational stability while guiding the club into its next chapter of strategic and commercial growth.

Catch12 Secures Strategic Stake in Levallois Metropolitans

Posted on December 17, 2025January 8, 2026 by Courtney

Catch12, the media and investment firm spearheaded by NBA star Ja Morant and his family, has formalised an investment in EuroStep Ventures (ESV).

The deal grants the organisation a significant ownership stake in the Levallois Metropolitans Basketball Club.

The acquisition is a watershed moment for the industry, as it establishes Morant as the first active NBA athlete to hold an ownership interest in a European franchise.

Strategically, the move places Catch12 at the epicentre of the French basketball scene, a high-growth market that has recently produced generational talents including Victor Wembanyama, Bilal Coulibaly, and former NBA champion Boris Diaw.

While the specific financial details and the duration of the agreement remain confidential, the commercial intent is clearly defined: to leverage the rapid expansion of basketball culture within the Paris region.

For Catch12, the partnership is a primary vehicle for its mission to bridge sport, culture, and business through storytelling and direct athlete equity.

A spokesperson for Catch12 characterised the deal as a “monumental step” in the organisation’s evolution.

The partnership allows Catch12 to capitalise on “exploding” global interest and commercial opportunities in Paris, shifting the traditional athlete-as-spokesperson model toward a more sophisticated equity-based approach.

Levallois Metropolitans, widely recognised as one of Europe’s premier development programs, provides Catch12 with a high-performance blueprint and a foothold in the European scouting ecosystem.

This strategy is expected to facilitate unique cross-continental commercial exchanges and provide Catch12’s media arm with unparalleled access to document the rise of the next generation of European talent.

With Paris remaining a focal point of the global basketball conversation, Morant’s entry into the French market is a calculated move to secure a first-mover advantage in a territory ripe for further commercialisation.

Queensland Rugby Union Secures Extensions with Three Partners

Posted on December 17, 2025January 8, 2026 by Courtney

Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) has confirmed a two-year partnership extensions with 4BC, Belbaker and HopgoodGanim Lawyers through to the end of the 2027 season.

The renewals come as QRU continues to prioritise long-term, values-aligned partnerships that support both elite performance and community engagement across Queensland rugby.

Commenting on the partnership, 4BC content manager, Siobhain McConnell, said: “Building on shared success over our long-standing partnership, 4BC is excited to re-sign with the Queensland Reds and QRU for 2026–2027, continuing to unite two like-minded organisations committed to community connection.”

“We’re proud to continue to work with the QRU and look forward to driving even greater community connections and mutually beneficial outcomes over the next two years,” McConnell said.

Belbaker has also extended its role as Official Coach Partner, delivering transport logistics for the Queensland Reds and major QRU events across the state.

With a fleet of close to 100 coaches operating throughout South East Queensland, the partnership provides operational certainty while delivering brand exposure through regional travel and community use.

Adding his enthusiasm on the partnership, Belbaker spokesperson, added: “Belbaker is proud to strengthen our longstanding relationship with Queensland Rugby Union and the Queensland Reds.”

“Our partnership has been built on shared values and a genuine commitment to Queensland communities, and we’re excited to continue that journey,” the spokersperson said.

Legal partner HopgoodGanim Lawyers has similarly renewed, continuing its involvement across QRU’s commercial negotiations and major projects.

The firm’s support reflects the growing complexity of governance, infrastructure and commercial arrangements in modern rugby administration.

HopgoodGanim Lawyers Partner, Tim Scanland, concluded: “We are incredibly proud to stand alongside the Queensland Rugby Union as their official legal partner.”

“Each year, we have the privilege of supporting the QRU across their key commercial negotiations and major projects, helping to drive the continued success and growth of rugby in Queensland.”

QRU head of commercial & consumer, Pete Fairbairn, said the extensions highlight the value of continuity.

“It’s always a positive sign when long-term partners extend their commitment,” he said.

Each of the three organisations has worked with the governing body for several years, providing category-specific expertise that underpins key operational, media and commercial functions.

Talk radio station 4BC remains a strategic media partner, offering QRU and the Queensland Reds consistent access to a large, engaged audience in the Brisbane market.

As the city’s only commercial news talk station, 4BC provides regular on-air exposure through interviews, commentary and promotional activity, helping maintain rugby’s visibility in a competitive media landscape.

Tennis Australia Appoints Nexo as Official Crypto Partner

Posted on December 17, 2025January 8, 2026 by Courtney

Tennis Australia has secured a new partnership with digital assets platform Nexo, appointing the company as the first Official Crypto Partner of the Australian Open and the broader Summer of Tennis calendar.

The agreement extends beyond the Australian Open to include the United Cup, Brisbane International, Adelaide International, Canberra International and Hobart International, giving Nexo year-round visibility during Australia’s peak tennis period.

Tennis Australia chief commercial officer, Cedric Cornelis, said the partnership aligned with the organisation’s broader innovation agenda.

“We’re excited to welcome Nexo to the Australian Open family.”

“As a brand built on innovation, expertise and next-generation thinking, Nexo is a natural fit for the AO and our events across the Summer of Tennis,” Cornelis said.

He added that the Coaches Pod would shine a light on the strategy and teamwork at the heart of elite tennis.

Nexo Co-founder, Antoni Trenchev, positioned the deal as a values-led alignment.

“The Australian Open stands at the intersection of excellence and ambition – precisely where Nexo positions itself.”

“Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to disciplined performance and long-term thinking,” Trenchev said.

The deal reflects Tennis Australia’s continued willingness to engage with emerging technology sectors, while offering Nexo access to one of the most globally recognised annual sporting events.

At the Australian Open, Nexo’s most prominent asset will be the Nexo Coaches Pod, with branding across on-court coach areas at Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, John Cain Arena and Kia Arena.

The Coaches Pods are positioned as a broadcast-facing feature, designed to highlight tactical decision-making and performance strategy, providing a clear integration point for fans watching both in-venue and via broadcast.

Additional exposure will come through on-court signage and speed-serve displays at selected Summer of Tennis events, embedding the brand across multiple broadcast touchpoints during the season.

From Nexo’s perspective, the partnership provides access to a global audience at scale. The Australian Open consistently ranks among the most-watched annual sporting events worldwide, making it an attractive platform for brands seeking international reach and association with high-performance sport.

The agreement also reflects a broader trend across global sport, where rights holders are cautiously re-engaging with crypto and fintech partners following market volatility in recent years.

National Unification of Australian Athletics Confirmed

Posted on December 17, 2025December 18, 2025 by Courtney

Australian Athletics and Little Athletics Australia have reached an agreement in principle to unify, forming a single national governing body under the name Australian Athletics.

This structural alignment is designed to streamline operations, enhance the sport’s profile, and, most critically for the sports business sector, unlock new commercial and strategic opportunities.

The move establishes a single National Member Federation recognised by World Athletics and the Australian Sports Commission, consolidating the fragmented national landscape.

State Member Associations of Little Athletics Australia will transition to become members of the unified Australian Athletics, a governance shift that promises to improve regulatory consistency and administrative efficiency, which has been successfully modelled in states like Western Australia and the ACT.

As Little Athletics Australia President Sherrie Boulter highlighted, participation nationally grew by 16% this season, positioning the junior structure as a vital athlete acquisition funnel.

By formally integrating this engine into the senior body, the organisation is implementing a clear retention strategy aimed at reducing participant churn and securing talent through “clearer athletics pathways” as athletes move toward competitive structures.

This unification is timed to maximise impact leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.

As an integrated entity, the new Australian Athletics is better positioned to leverage the increased visibility and targeted government and corporate investment that accompanies a home Games cycle.

As Jane Flemming OAM noted, this development best places the sport to be successful long into the future, suggesting the consolidation is foundational to securing major, multi-year commercial partnerships.

The immediate priority for the combined leadership is the finalisation of implementation plans, expected by mid-February 2026.

For sponsors and broadcasters, the unified body presents a more attractive proposition: a single point of entry offering cohesive national programming and a clear, managed pathway from grassroots participation to elite performance.

Formula 1 Secures Two-Year Deal for Portuguese Grand Prix Return at Portimão

Posted on December 17, 2025December 17, 2025 by Courtney

Formula 1® has announced a commercial agreement, securing the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix for the 2027 and 2028 seasons at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve (Portimão).

The two-year deal involves key strategic partners: the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and promoter Parkalgar, Parques Tecnológicos e Desportivos, S.A.

This agreement reinforces F1’s growing calendar demand and provides a substantial economic boost to Portugal’s Algarve region.

The decision to bring F1 back to Portimão, which last hosted races in 2020 and 2021, was driven by strong interest, according to Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, who stated that the interest and demand to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix is the highest that it has ever been.

Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal, Manuel Castro Almeida, said: “The F1 Grande Prémio de Portugal will have a direct impact on economic activity, generating opportunities throughout the economic chain, from tourism to trade, and services to SMEs, projecting the country as a competitive and reliable destination.”

He added that hosting the Grand Prix “reinforces our regional development strategy, enhancing the value of the territories and creating opportunities for local economies.”

Chairman and CEO of the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, Jaime Costa, confirmed the circuit’s excitement, noting the return will deliver a powerful boost for our tourism, region, and community.

The two-year program is expected to deliver a significant financial honour and global projection for Portugal’s image worldwide.