Logo
Membership
Login
Topics
Show More Topics >>
Sports
Show More Sports >>
Login
Membership

QRL Welcomes Brian Canavan as New Chairperson

Posted on by Courtney

The Queensland Rugby League (QRL) has named Brian Canavan as its new Chairperson, bringing a wealth of experience in rugby league administration to the role. Canavan’s past roles as CEO of the Sydney Roosters and NRL’s Head of Football position him as a key leader to drive QRL’s growth and commercial success.

Under Canavan’s guidance, QRL aims to continue leveraging its strong community and corporate partnerships to expand rugby league’s presence across Queensland. The focus will be on collaboration with sponsors and government bodies to deliver new initiatives and programs that benefit players, clubs, and fans alike. This appointment reaffirms QRL’s dedication to ensuring the long-term success of the sport by cultivating a sustainable, high-performance culture and advancing commercial opportunities that contribute to rugby league’s growth.

“Like everyone else within the organisation, I’m committed to making our game the best it can be. I look forward to continuing my involvement with the Board and CEO Ben Ikin and staff” Canavan said.

Bruce Hatcher will complete his third term as the chair of the QRL on October 31, having assumed the top post in 2017 following a long period of service as an independent director.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

Nike Partners with LEGO for New Innovative Sportswear Collection

Posted on by Courtney

In a bold and innovative move, Nike has announced an exciting partnership with LEGO that merges LEGO’s iconic playfulness with Nike’s innovative performance wear. The collaboration will introduce a sportswear collection designed to inspire creativity and self-expression both on and off the field.

This partnership combines the strengths of both brands: LEGO’s imaginative building world and Nike’s relentless focus on sport and performance. While the specifics of the collection remain under wraps, it’s expected to feature vibrant, playful designs that reflect LEGO’s unique aesthetic, offering athletes and fans a fresh way to express their personal style. Nike has also hinted that the collaboration will extend beyond apparel, creating a fully immersive brand experience.

For sports professionals, sponsors, and brand managers, this collaboration serves as a powerful reminder of the growing value of creative partnerships in building brand equity. Nike’s move underscores a strategic shift toward experiential and lifestyle branding, especially when engaging creativity-driven Gen Z consumers. By incorporating LEGO elements into its designs and experiences, Nike is not just launching products—it’s crafting an immersive brand journey that blends fun, creativity, and performance.

As Nike continues to innovate, partnerships like this are essential for staying relevant in an increasingly competitive market, showcasing how strategic collaborations can diversify a brand’s portfolio and reach new audiences.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

Instagram will load in the frontend.

World Athletics Extends Partnership with Nielsen to Strengthen Fan Engagement

Posted on by Courtney

World Athletics has renewed its partnership with Nielsen, continuing their collaboration to leverage Nielsen’s advanced market research and sports intelligence capabilities. This renewed four-year agreement will focus on enhancing fan engagement and delivering strategic insights for World Athletics events, including the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo and Beijing.

The recent World Athletics Championships in Budapest highlighted the value of this partnership, generating US$408 million in impact across Nielsen’s five pillars: economic, media, social, environmental, and attendance. Research revealed that 77% of spectators in Budapest felt inspired to participate in track and field more often, a significant increase from the 41% who felt similarly in Oregon 2022.

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe emphasised Nielsen’s data-driven approach as essential in shaping the organisation’s strategy to expand its global reach. This renewed partnership aims to capitalise on the growing international interest in athletics and strengthen its global presence.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

How Sports-Education Partnerships Are Redefining Australia’s Sports Industry and Workforce

Posted on by Courtney

Australian sports clubs are increasingly collaborating with educational institutions to create new opportunities that extend beyond the playing field. This growing trend is reshaping the sports industry by blending education with elite sports environments, benefiting not only athletes and students but also the broader community and economy. Clubs like the Brisbane Bullets and Brisbane Broncos have partnered with TAFE Queensland, while Carlton Football Club and the West Coast Eagles have aligned with La Trobe University and Edith Cowan University, respectively, to offer diplomas and certificates that prepare students for careers in sports administration, business, and management.

These initiatives align with the broader growth of the Australian sports industry, which supports 128,000 full-time equivalent jobs and contributes $14 billion annually to the national GDP. For context, that’s approximately 0.8% of GDP and 1.5% of total Australian employment. With major events like the Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon, the industry is expected to continue expanding, driving a need for skilled professionals to keep up with employment demands.

The value exchange in these partnerships is multi-faceted:

  1. For Educational Institutions: By partnering with sports clubs, universities, and TAFEs can expand their program offerings and create unique value propositions that attract students interested in careers in the sports industry.
  2. For Sports Clubs: These collaborations allow sports organisations to diversify their revenue streams and develop new commercial properties, such as academies and institutes. Furthermore, these partnerships provide a talent recruitment pipeline, ensuring that clubs have access to well-educated professionals with industry-specific skills​.
  3. For Students and Athletes: The benefits for students are clear—they gain hands-on experience and direct access to the sports industry, which enhances their employability. For athletes, these partnerships often provide pathways to education that can help them prepare for life after their sporting careers.

Beyond educational benefits, these partnerships enhance community engagement and contribute to the long-term sustainability of both sports clubs and educational institutions. By embedding education within the fabric of sports, these initiatives help create a more resilient sports industry that is well-positioned to meet future demands.

As the need for specialised skills in sports management, marketing, and technology grows, sports-education partnerships are becoming pivotal in shaping the future of the industry. By investing in these collaborations, sports organisations are not only preparing the next generation of leaders but also fostering deeper community connections, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth. These partnerships mark a shift towards a more strategic, talent-driven approach that extends beyond entertainment into workforce development.

This trend will drive innovation and create new commercial opportunities, positioning sports clubs as leaders in industry transformation. By embracing these educational alliances, clubs are opening pathways for brands to engage with future sports professionals, ensuring the sports industry remains dynamic and forward-thinking.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

Central Coast Mariners Appoint Club’s First Female CEO

Posted on by Courtney

The Central Coast Mariners have named Alyssar Narey as their new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership change ahead of the 2023/24 A-Leagues season. Narey, who brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at Football Australia and the A-Leagues, is the first female CEO in the club’s history. This appointment comes at a time when the A-Leagues are driving forward with broader diversity and inclusion initiatives across the sport.

Previously the Head of Women’s Football at the A-Leagues, Narey has a strong track record in driving commercial growth and increasing visibility for the sport and reputation for innovation and strategic thinking. Her leadership is expected to bolster the Mariners’ commercial success and deepen fan engagement.

Outgoing CEO Shaun Mielekamp, who oversaw the club’s recent A-League Men’s Championship win, will work closely with Narey during the transition. As the A-Leagues continue to push for diversity in leadership, Narey’s appointment positions the Mariners for a successful and transformative future.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

$7 Billion Price Tag for NBA Expansion Clubs

Posted on by Courtney

The NBA is moving closer to expansion, with cities like Las Vegas and Seattle on track to welcome new teams. However, entry into the league will come with a substantial price tag, as expansion fees are expected to reach as high as $7 billion. This steep price reflects the NBA’s booming business, with media deals and franchise valuations reaching unprecedented heights.

The NBA’s new media deal is projected to be worth $75 billion, which would significantly increase league revenues and, by extension, the value of its franchises. Additionally, record-breaking sales, like the Washington Commanders’ recent $6.05 billion transaction, have raised the bar for sports team valuations. With expansion markets such as Las Vegas and Seattle offering immense growth potential, the cost of joining the NBA is expected to rise accordingly.

Investors are seeing these teams as more than just sports franchises—they are multi-faceted business enterprises. The appeal of owning an NBA team now includes media rights, real estate opportunities, and entertainment ventures. Las Vegas, for example, has evolved into a major sports hub, attracting the NHL’s Golden Knights and the NFL’s Raiders, and now eyeing the NBA.

Key figures, including LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal, are reportedly part of ownership groups interested in leading bids for new teams, as well as global brands like Red Bull, making this expansion a highly competitive race.

With formal expansion discussions set to begin after the NBA finalises its media deals, the league could see new teams joining as early as the 2026-27 season. While Las Vegas and Seattle are widely considered to be leading candidates, other markets such as Vancouver and Mexico City have also expressed interest.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

2024 NBA Map

French Football Faces Financial Reset as Media Rights Cuts Leave Clubs Scrambling

Posted on by Courtney

As Ligue 1 kicked off its new season, French football finds itself grappling with a significant drop in media rights revenue—a critical financial stream that underpins the future of the sport. After months of negotiations and a failed bidding process, French football clubs are now confronting a reality that falls far short of their lofty €1 billion (approx. AUD 1.66 billion) target for media rights.

Major Deals, Smaller Payouts

Two major broadcasters, DAZN and beIN SPORTS France, have secured the majority of the rights for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 in a new deal that runs from 2024 to 2029:

  • DAZN: €325 million (AUD 539 million) annually for 8 Ligue 1 games per weekend.
  • beIN SPORTS France: €78.5 million (AUD 130 million) annually for 1 Ligue 1 game per weekend, plus €40 million (AUD 66 million) for full Ligue 2 coverage.

Despite these deals, the overall revenue generated from media rights has seen a sharp decline. The total gross income for French football’s top leagues in the upcoming 2024/25 season is estimated to be €501.3 million (AUD 832 million)—a 47% decrease compared to the €734 million (AUD 1.22 billion) from the 2023/24 season.

When expenses, taxes, contributions, and revenue sharing with private equity firm CVC are deducted, the net income for Ligue 1 drops even further to just €189.7 million (AUD 315 million), a far cry from the €495 million (AUD 821 million) netted in the previous season.

A Widening Financial Gap for Clubs

The decline in media rights income has serious implications for French clubs. The funds available for distribution among the 18 Ligue 1 clubs have dwindled to €154.8 million (AUD 257 million). This reduction significantly affects how much each club receives, particularly for top-performing teams that traditionally rely on larger payouts to fuel their operations and success:

  • 1st-place team: Now projected to earn €16.1 million (AUD 27 million), down from €42.9 million (AUD 71 million).
  • 18th-place team: Now projected to earn €5.1 million (AUD 8.5 million), down from €14.3 million (AUD 24 million).

These shrinking figures place greater financial strain on clubs, forcing them to find alternative revenue sources, most notably through player transfers. However, this reliance on transfers also presents challenges, as foreign clubs are aware of the desperate financial situation in France, which could drive down the value of transfer deals for French teams.

The Road Ahead for French Football

Historically, French football clubs have relied on two primary revenue streams: media rights, negotiated at the league level, and player transfers, which are inherently unpredictable. With the dramatic reduction in media rights income, the reliance on player transfers is likely to grow even further. In the seasons surrounding the pandemic, player transfers have already become an increasingly important revenue stream, contributing 27% of revenue, up from 18% in previous years. However, foreign clubs are fully aware of French football’s financial constraints, making transfer negotiations tougher and driving down the value French teams can extract from player sales.

This highlights the broader challenges facing French football as it navigates a post-pandemic environment where traditional revenue streams are under pressure. Sports investor and operator Achille de Rauglaudre points out that while broadcasters paid a fair price for what French football currently offers, the league’s unrealistic ambitions contributed to the disappointing outcome.

Despite these difficulties, de Rauglaudre remains cautiously optimistic, emphasising that innovative financial strategies will be crucial to securing the sustainability of French football and protecting clubs from financial collapse—a fate that befell the once-prominent FC Girondins de Bordeaux, now relegated to the 4th division.

French football’s future depends on finding a balance between realistic revenue expectations and long-term sustainability, ensuring that clubs can compete not just on the pitch, but also in the global sports business landscape.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

Addressing the Drop in Youth Sports Participation Among Children with Disabilities

Posted on by Courtney

With the Paralympics approaching, attention is increasingly focused on the equity and recognition given to Paralympic athletes. However, new research from Allianz Australia has highlighted a concerning trend: 50% of children with disabilities stop participating in sport by the age of 11. This data highlights the urgent need for more inclusive grassroots sports initiatives to nurture the next generation of Paralympians.

The research shows sport’s transformative benefits for children with disabilities, with 76% of parents noting increased confidence and self-belief, and 68% citing the importance of making new friends. However, barriers persist, with 24% of parents calling for better coach training to support children of all abilities and another 24% advocating for greater access to sports programs for children with disabilities..

Shez Ford, Chief General Manager, Consumer at Allianz, highlighted the life-changing impact of sport, especially for children with disabilities: “Our new research has highlighted the incredible benefits of involving children of all abilities in sports, and for children with disabilities the impact can be especially transformative. From gaining confidence, building self-belief, making new friends, and embracing teamwork, sport has a profound impact on children of all abilities.”

Ford also pointed to Allianz’s Grassroots Champions initiative as a key step in ensuring all children, regardless of ability, remain engaged in sport. Whether aspiring to become Paralympians or participating recreationally, sport offers a platform for social and emotional development.

The research also revealed that strong support networks play a critical role in keeping children with disabilities engaged in sport. A remarkable 86% of parents of children with disabilities said that being cheered on is a major motivator for their child to stay involved, while 85% cited the importance of their child feeling proud of their accomplishments, and 84% emphasised the impact of positive reinforcement.

As discussions on inclusivity in sport gain momentum leading up to the Paralympics, Allianz’s findings serve as a timely reminder. The future of Paralympic athletes—and indeed all children in sport—relies on providing the necessary support, training, and resources at the grassroots level, ensuring that no child is left behind in their sporting journey.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

A New Era in Fan Engagement Begins at Fanatics Fest NYC 2024

Posted on by Courtney

Fanatics Fest NYC 2024 made a historic debut at New York City’s Javits Center from 16-18 August, drawing over 70,000 sports fans and collectors. Dubbed the “sports equivalent of Comic-Con,” this three-day festival aimed to redefine sports fandom by merging sports, culture, and collectibles into one immersive experience. Organised by Fanatics Events, the event set a new benchmark for fan engagement, offering exclusive experiences that went far beyond traditional sports conventions.

The Vision and Execution

The goal of Fanatics Fest was clear: to elevate sports fandom by creating a dynamic environment where fans could connect with their favourite sports figures, access exclusive merchandise, and dive into the collector community. Spanning over 400,000 square feet, the event featured activations from major sporting leagues and meet-and-greets with sports icons like Tom Brady, Kevin Durant, and Derek Jeter, alongside WWE superstars like Hulk Hogan and Rhea Ripley. Attendees were treated to autograph sessions, live podcasts, and exhibitions of rare sports memorabilia.

The trading card community also had a significant presence, with a dedicated “trading pit” and educational sessions for new collectors. Fanatics Fest distinguished itself by merging sports, entertainment, and pop culture, setting a new standard for fan conventions.

Expanding the Future of Fanatics Fest

Fanatics Fest 2024 marks just the beginning. The event’s success has opened doors for future activations, with Fanatics Events planning a yearlong calendar of fan-centric experiences. According to Lance Fensterman, CEO of Fanatics Events, the goal is to expand this live event model globally, promising even more innovative and immersive experiences in the future.

The festival not only celebrated the passion of sports fandom but also unlocked commercial opportunities for brands and athletes, providing a platform to build deeper connections with their communities. As Fanatics Fest continues to evolve, it is poised to become a must-attend event that redefines the relationship between sports fans and the industry.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

Every NFL Game Now Available in Australia via Amazon Prime and DAZN

Posted on by Courtney

DAZN and Prime Video have expanded their partnership to offer NFL Game Pass (NFL GP) as an add-on subscription available on Prime Video in key markets: the UK, France, Germany, Australia, Mexico, and Brazil. Launching this week, NFL GP will provide fans outside the USA access to every NFL matchup throughout the regular season and postseason, including the Super Bowl – widely regarded as the world’s largest annual sporting event.

This move allows sports enthusiasts to easily access NFL GP with a one-click add-on for an additional monthly fee, expanding Prime Video’s sports streaming offerings. Jay Marine, Global Head of Sports at Prime Video, emphasized the partnership’s significance: “Our expanded partnership with DAZN will bring the drama and excitement of the NFL to customers in many countries around the world. Our goal is to make Prime Video the number one destination for sports fans to watch the biggest live sports events.”

For Australian fans, this deal signifies increased flexibility in how and where they can watch their favorite NFL matchups. As Prime Video continues to expand its sports offerings, the addition of NFL GP further strengthens its position as a key player in the sports streaming market.

Brands eager to leverage this new platform should take note: all ads from the DAZN Game Pass feed will be syndicated across Amazon Prime, offering unique opportunities for brand exposure in one of the most dynamic sports leagues globally.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

ICC Confirms Women’s T20 World Cup will Relocate to UAE

Posted on by Courtney

In a significant update for the global cricket community, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be relocated from Bangladesh to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Dubai and Sharjah set to host the event from October 3 to 20. This relocation follows travel advisories issued by multiple participating nations, making it unfeasible to hold the tournament in Bangladesh. While the UAE will step in to ensure the 2024 competition proceeds smoothly, ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice confirmed that Bangladesh will retain hosting rights for future events.

This relocation to the UAE brings significant commercial implications, especially given the short turnaround time. The UAE, a growing hub for international cricket, offers an opportunity for sponsors to expand their reach into the Middle Eastern market, leveraging Dubai and Sharjah’s strong infrastructure and global reputation. Brands already in the region will benefit from increased exposure, while new market entrants can capitalise on the tournament’s global draw.

Despite the rapid shift, the ICC has demonstrated its ability to protect both the safety and commercial interests of the event. The successful execution of the Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE will further solidify the region’s status as a premier destination for international sports.

In addition to the relocation news, ICC Chair Greg Barclay announced he will not seek a third term and will step down at the end of November 2024. Current directors are now required to put forward nominations for the next Chair by 27 August 2024 and if there is more than one candidate, an election will be held with the term of the new Chair commencing on 1 December 2024.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

Jack Harlow Joins Growing List of Celebrity Investors in NWSL

Posted on by Courtney

Grammy-nominated rapper Jack Harlow has become the latest high-profile figure to invest in the NWSL, officially joining Racing Louisville FC’s ownership group this past weekend. An avid soccer fan, Harlow has regularly attended both men’s and women’s games at the 11,700-seat Lynn Family Stadium since it opened in 2020.His investment adds a new layer of star power to the club, elevating its profile locally and nationally.

The surge of star involvement in the league is is accelerating it’s growth by driving visibility, financial support, and new commercial opportunities. As more high-profile figures back women’s sports, the NWSL is set to thrive, with increased fan engagement and expanded sponsorships. Harlow’s local influence adds momentum to Racing Louisville FC and further strengthens the league’s trajectory, attracting more investment to the evolving landscape of women’s football.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

US-Based AllCity Network Raises $12 Million to Expand its Sports Coverage

Posted on by Courtney

AllCity Network, a rapidly growing force in digital sports media, has secured $12 million in Series B funding to fuel its ambitious expansion into the Dallas market. The Denver-based company, known for its innovative approach to local sports coverage, is set to launch its Dallas outlet this month. Leading the new team will be renowned NBA insider Marc Stein, adding further credibility to the brand. The Dallas launch already boasts pre-sold advertising from eight key partners, reflecting strong confidence in AllCity’s content and market reach.

AllCity Network specialises in creating hyperlocal sports content tailored to diehard fans. With in-depth coverage of local teams through podcasts, feature articles, and video content, AllCity provides a personalised experience that surpasses typical national sports coverage. This approach has allowed the company to build strong, engaged fan communities in cities like Denver, Chicago, and Phoenix.

Strategic partnerships with major broadcasters like TEGNA play a crucial role in AllCity’s growth, enabling the company to integrate its digital content into TV distribution and extend its reach. By focusing on digital partnerships with local sports teams and tapping into the increasing demand for localised, streaming sports content, AllCity is positioning itself at the forefront of the evolving sports media landscape.

With this new round of funding, AllCity is poised to expand into additional major sports markets, driving innovation in digital sports media and solidifying its reputation as a leader in the business of sports.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!

AFLW to Launch Innovative Ball-Tracking Technology for 2024 Season

Posted on by Courtney

The AFL has announced the launch of ‘Score Assist,’ a ball-tracking technology set to debut in the NAB AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition for the 2024 season. This marks a significant move toward enhancing game analysis and decision-making capabilities within women’s football, aligning with the AFL’s broader push for innovation in the sport.

The new technology’s been developed in collaboration with the AFL, Sherrin, and leading sports tech companies Sportable and Intaneous. A chip embedded in specially manufactured Sherrin footballs, designed to replicate the size, weight, and balance of traditional balls, will track the ball’s movement across the field in real-time, allowing for enhanced decision-making and scoring accuracy. This smart-ball technology has undergone extensive testing over the past 18 months, including real-world trials in VFL and VFLW matches this season, ensuring its readiness for the upcoming AFLW season.

As the AFLW continues to rise in popularity, integrating advanced technology not only increases the competition’s appeal to fans and broadcasters but also offers brands new ways to engage with the league.

As the AFLW continues to rise in popularity, integrating advanced sports tech like ‘Score Assist’ not only elevates the high-performance aspects of the game but also enhances fan engagement, providing a more immersive and accurate experience that keeps audiences more connected to the action on the field.

The implementation of smart technology in sports is revolutionising the game. Hear more about some of the initiatives, including Sportable’s Smart Ball Tech, on the latest Ministry of Sports Podcast episode.

Stay ahead of the latest sports business trends by subscribing to our free Ministry of Sport newsletter. Unlock even more insights with our exclusive membership plans today!