SportsPro Podcast: Recent Episodes

SportsPro

Join SportsPro writers and guests for comment, insight and analysis on the matters of the moment in the global sports industry.

Sport’s best content doesn’t happen by accident.

Behind every viral clip, every campaign that cuts through, every piece of creative work that moves the needle commercially, there's a person, a team, and a strategy. But rarely does that person, team or strategy get the recognition or coverage they deserve.

SportsPro and Greenfly’s recently launched Short-Form Showcase is designed to fill that void by amplifying the talent and teams behind the best short-form content being produced across the global sports industry.

Unveiled in July, the Showcase recognises the human craft, creativity and collective effort that goes into creating content that stops the scroll and delivers commercial impact by celebrating the people who make it happen. This is not a ranking or an award – it’s a curated exhibition of best-in-class operators and a collection of their most memorable work.

On this episode, SportsPro’s Michael Long is joined by Greenfly’s Gabby Vidal Castillo and Melissa Lawton, SailGP’s chief content officer and one of the 39 specialists named in the Showcase, to discuss the value and important of exceptional content operators, how strategy and insight guide the creative process, and where social-first sports content is heading next.

To view the full Short-Form Showcase, visit Home - SportsPro x Greenfly - Short-Form Showcase

F1 has gone from 13 commercial partners a decade ago to around 33 today, from a paddock that barred drivers from posting on social media to an always-on content operation, and from a linear US broadcast deal with ESPN to a streaming partnership with Apple.

Liam Parker, chief communications and corporate relations officer at F1, has a simple framing for all of it: none of it works unless the racing does.

In this episode of the SportsPro Podcast, produced in collaboration with Mics Out from BlackBook Motorsport, Parker joins motorsport editor Cian Brittle to discuss what "redefining reach" means in the Apple era, how F1 decides when its global partner roster is full, and why he would swap the word Americanisation for modernisation.

Recorded ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, the conversation also covers the collaborative fix to this season's new power unit regulations, fan activation work with Heineken and Lego, the markets F1 believes are underserved — India chief among them — and how the sport is contingency-planning the end of its season amid geopolitical uncertainty.

SportsPro speaks to Paceteq chief executive Alexander Bodo to learn how decades of data analytics and AI experience in motorsport can be harnessed by soccer to drive performance, aid recruitment, and drive further efficiencies on and off the pitch.

Bodo explains why culture and technology has held back soccer in recent years, with a lack of unified data platforms and in-house skills among the barriers to adoption.

However, there are signs that things are changing, with a generation of data-savvy coaches and players and game changing AI technologies ready to deliver a revolution in soccer analysis.

Former England cricketer and national team selector Ed Smith talks to SportsPro about the changing nature of leadership.

He explains how leaders must balance data driven decision making with human judgement and the need for human centric AI strategies.

He also discusses the importance of building strong teams and the value of formal education in leadership.

Ed Smith is the co-founder and director of the Institute of Sports Humanities.

The Commonwealth Games have faced one of the most turbulent periods in their history. After Victoria pulled out as host in 2023, uncertainty loomed over the event’s future, its relevance, and whether the traditional model could survive.

Now, with Glasgow hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games on a significantly reduced budget and a condensed planning timeline, Commonwealth Sport is positioning the event as the beginning of a new era, built around a leaner, more sustainable model designed to attract more host cities in the years ahead.

In this episode of the SportsPro Podcast, SportsPro reporter Josh Sim is joined by Commonwealth Sport chief executive Katie Sadleir.

She discusses the lessons learned from Victoria's withdrawal, Glasgow's rapid turnaround, the Games' evolving commercial and broadcast strategy, and why she feels the reset will secure the Commonwealth Games' future well beyond 2026.

Former New Zealand captain Bex Smith spent much of her football career playing in Europe and came away convinced that the structures underpinning the women's game were holding it back.

Now, as the founder and chief executive of the Crux Football multi-club group, the former Fifa executive is implementing an ownership model built on carving women's teams out of the men's structure to run them as standalone businesses.

In this episode of the SportsPro Podcast, Smith joins Head of Editorial Sam Carp to discuss the launch of Crux, the criteria shaping acquisitions of clubs like Montpellier and FC Rosengård,

and where she sees the biggest opportunities for revenue growth.

Recorded at SportsPro London in April, the conversation also explores the growing role of MCOs in women’s football, how Fifa and Uefa could incentivise more investment in the game and Crux’s ambition to scale to five teams.

Prem Rugby CEO Simon Massie-Taylor talks SportsPro through plans to make league more financially sustainable, grow the audience and take advantage of sport’s rise as an asset class.

Brad Ross worked on four Fifa World Cups during more than a decade with Coca-Cola, but he likens the expanded 2026 edition to having 104 Super Bowls in five to six weeks. Now, as managing director of global marketing partnerships at Bank of America, he is overseeing the financial services giant’s first-ever sponsorship of soccer’s flagship international tournament.

In this episode of the SportsPro Podcast, Ross sits down with Head of Editorial Sam Carp to discuss the strategy underpinning Bank of America’s World Cup debut and what opportunities and challenges the expansion of the tournament creates for sponsors.

Recorded at SportsPro London, the conversation also explores how the bank will activate the partnership across its 100 US markets, what it takes to cut through in a noisy tournament environment, and how it is tracking ROI.

There’s also time for Ross to reveal what it’s really like to work on a World Cup and share his key piece of advice for sponsors.

Beth Barrett-Wild has fond memories of the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup final, which England won on home soil. Nine years later, as the tournament director of the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, she is leading the ECB’s efforts to ensure the event accelerates the long-term growth of women’s cricket in England and Wales.

In this episode of the SportsPro Podcast, Barrett-Wild sits down with Reporter Josh Sim to discuss the tournament’s revenue goals, the preparation work that's gone into the event and how the T20 Women’s World Cup can leave a lasting legacy.

Recorded at SportsPro London, the conversation also coversthe tournament’s broadcast and digital content strategies, and the audience insights emerging from the competition’s ticket sales.

Kim Stone has spent most of her career in the NBA with the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors, but when she got a call from Michele Kang offering the chance to become chief executive of the NWSL’s Washington Spirit, the opportunity was too good to pass up.

In this episode of the SportsPro Podcast, Stone sits down with Head of Editorial Sam Carp to discuss the strategy underpinning the Spirit’s ongoing revenue growth, how the club thinks about profitability and where the franchise is investing for the future.

Recorded at SportsPro New York, the conversation also covers Trinity Rodman’s record contract extension with the Spirit and how the organisation quantifies the commercial impact of one of women’s soccer’s most marketable talents. There was also time to discuss NWSL franchise valuations, the league's new High Impact Player rule and plenty more.

In this special episode recorded at SportsInnovation 2026, SportsPro's George Breare returns to the hosting seat for a conversation with Steffen Merkel, chief executive of German soccer's DFL.

Shortly after signing a contract extension until 2029, Merkel discusses what's driving the Bundesliga's record €6.33bn revenues and outlines the league's media rights strategy both at home and abroad.

There’s also a deep dive into how the DFL is approaching AI and emerging technologies, the impact of Harry Kane and other international stars, and why maintaining authenticity remains a key priority for the Bundesliga as the game evolves.

We'd love to hear what you think. 📩 Got questions for future episodes?Email us at: editor@sportspromedia.com🎧 Don’t forget to check out SportsPro’s other podcasts: StreamTime Sports, Mics Out, and New Era.OUR SOCIALS:Newsletter: https://www.sportspro.com/account/registration/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4vDHloCVsAdKJusUtVRnCd?si=TX8jJO6dR7qyzALZfQv2bQInstagram: https://instagram.com/sportspro.mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sportspro-media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sportspromediaStreamTime Sports: @SportsProNick #SportsPro #Podcast #Bundesliga #DFL

With more than 2 billion daily users and 40 billion hours of sports content watched annually, YouTube has become a major destination for sports highlights, creator watchalongs and, increasingly, live sport.

In this episode, we revisit an interview from the SportsPro Media Summit in Madrid, where SportsPro head of editorial Sam Carp sits down with Jonny Keogh, YouTube's head of UK sports, to discuss how leagues, teams and rights holders are using the platform to expand their reach and monetise audiences.

Keogh outlines what a "good" YouTube strategy looks like today, how competitions like the Women's Super League have used the platform to build audiences and attract sponsors, and whether some properties should even use it as their primary distribution channel.

📩 Got questions for future episodes?

Email us at: editor@sportspromedia.com

🎧 Don’t forget to check out SportsPro’s other podcasts: StreamTime Sports, Mics Out, and New Era.

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Recorded live during our recent Global SportsTech Report 2026 launch event held at Meta’s London HQ, this special episode hosted by SportsPro's Steve McCaskill brings together experts from Sportradar, the DP World Tour and Meta to explore how sports technology is moving from hype to measurable impact.

Where is AI genuinely creating value? How are rights holders using data to drive fan engagement? Is immersive tech finally reaching its tipping point? And what does the next phase of transformation look like?

From computer vision and predictive modelling to second-screen battles, generative AI and the rise of agentic systems, this conversation explores what’s working today and what still needs to prove itself.

Access the full report: https://www.sportspro.com/projects/global-sportstech-report/

10 years ago, FIFA was on its knees following a corruption scandal that rocked the sport. Enter Gianni Infantino, who was elected president of soccer's governing body with a remit of restoring faith in the organisation.

To mark the anniversary of Infantino's appointment, the SportsPro editorial team unpack the highs and lows of his presidency - from record revenues and tournament expansion to growing tensions over player welfare and the Swiss administrator's increasingly close ties to Donald Trump.

With this summer's World Cup in the US fast approaching, we ask whether Infantino has achieved what he set out to do and look ahead to what the next chapter of his tenure has in store.

📩 Got questions for future episodes?

Email us at: editor@sportspromedia.com

🎧 Don’t forget to check out SportsPro’s other podcasts: StreamTime Sports, Mics Out, and New Era.

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In one of his first interviews since joining Six Nations Rugby, chief executive Tom Harrison joins Sam Carp and Steve McCaskill on this week's episode for an in-depth conversation at a pivotal moment for rugby union.

With this season's Six Nations underway, Harrison assesses the health of the competition, discusses whether the tournament going behind a paywall was ever a genuine possibility, and explains why in-game ads have been introduced for the first time.

There's also time to look ahead to the inaugural edition of the new Nations Championship and explore the challenges of calendar reform, while Harrison also offers his view on what rugby needs to do to stay relevant and predicts what the sport could look like in ten years.

📩 Got questions for future episodes?

Email us at: editor@sportspromedia.com

🎧 Don’t forget to check out SportsPro’s other podcasts: StreamTime Sports, Mics Out, and New Era.

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With one week to go until the Winter Olympics, the SportsPro Podcast dives into what Milan-Cortina 2026 means for the future of the Games and discusses whether the event will benefit from the glow of a successful Paris 2024.

Hear from Ed Dixon, Sam Carp, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim as they break down the business of the Winter Olympics and explore some of the biggest storylines approaching the Games, including Italy's hosting journey, the return of the NHL and the political backdrop to the event.

There's also time to consider some of the more existential questions about the future of the Winter Olympics – and of course the quiz that no one asked for.

SportsPro #Podcast #WinterOlympics

The SportsPro team reveal their ten most influential figures for the year ahead spanning global sport, media, politics and athlete power before locking in a set of bold predictions on media rights, private equity, women’s sport and golf’s fractured future.

Hear from Ed Dixon, Sam Carp, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim as they focus on the people, power and decisions that will shape the industry over the next 12 months.

The SportsPro Podcast signs off for the year with its traditional dose of festive chaos, as Ed Dixon hosts the 2025 SportsPro Christmas Quiz with Josh Sim, Steve McCaskill and Sam Carp.

From staggeringly slow quick-fire questions and an ill-conceived bidding round to confusing quotes and a nail-biting finale, the team test how much they actually remember from the past 12 months across the global sports industry.

Will they cope under the pressure, which of them suffers the ignominy of the wooden spoon and who walks away with the title? Tune in to find out.

The SportsPro Podcast returns with Ed Dixon, Steve McCaskill and Sam Carp as they break down darts’ rapid ascent with PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter. From the World Darts Championship selling out in an hour to the first £1 million winner’s prize, the team explores how the sport has entered a new golden era.

They also dig into the PDC’s expanded Sky Sports deal, the global demand reshaping the calendar, and what comes next for Ally Pally as the organisation weighs its future. Plus, a look at Luke Littler’s impact, the push to reach younger audiences, and why Saudi Arabia is the latest stop on darts’ international journey.

The SportsPro Podcast returns with Josh Sim, Steve McCaskill, Ed Dixon and Sam Carp, alongside a drop-in from BlackBook Motorsport’s Cian Brittle.

Fresh from Monaco, Josh shares his insights from the Sportel business conference, including LaLiga president Javier Tebas’ comments on pan-European rights and SURJ Sports Investment chief executive Danny Townsend’s perspective on the firm’s strategy.

The team then unpacks Steve’s sit down with Sports Interactive studio director Miles Jacobson, exploring Football Manager’s delayed release, its transition to a new engine, and the task of integrating women’s soccer into the game.

The panel also reacts to Formula One’s new US media rights deal with Apple and debates whether the agreement makes sense for both parties.

SportsPro’s Steve McCaskill sits down with Miles Jacobson, the studio director at Sports Interactive, the UK-based video game developer known for Football Manager to discuss the most significant evolution in the series history. Jacobson explains the studio’s move to the Unity engine, why the team delayed the game’s release, and how they overhauled the user interface and match engine for the 2026 edition.

The conversation explores the addition of women’s football, new licensing deals including the Premier League, data-driven game design, partnerships with platforms like Netflix and Apple Arcade, and the emergence of Football Manager as an esports title.

The SportsPro Podcast returns with a special guest in the studio, as Ed Dixon, Sam Carp, and Josh Sim are joined by SportsPro’s Director of Key Projects, Mike Long, to unpack the 2025 edition of SportsPro’s 50 Most Marketable Athletes. And there’s plenty to get into. From surprise inclusions to big risers and the stories behind the rankings.

They’re also joined by the experts from Northstar Solutions Group, who reveal the data-driven insights shaping this year’s list. The team discuss the biggest cultural trends, the evolving role of social media, and why authenticity has become the ultimate currency in athlete marketability.

Tune in to find out who claimed the top spot. And yes, the quiz no one asked for makes another appearance!

Recorded at Spotify UK Headquarters.

The SportsPro Podcast returns with Ed Dixon, Sam Carp, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim turning their attention to the US. From the NFL’s rising franchise valuations to the NBA’s record-breaking domestic media deal, the team explores why more money than ever is flowing into the major leagues.

They also get stuck into other big talking points stateside, including the sales of the LA Lakers and Boston Celtics, the broadcast state of play across the leagues and why US sports properties are looking overseas for growth.

Recorded live from Spotify Studios in London.

SportsPro's Head of Editorial Sam Carp explores the evolving business of stadium naming rights with Al Guido, president of the San Francisco 49ers and chairman and CEO of Elevate.
The pair unpack why venue sponsorships have historically been a harder sell in Europe than in North America and consider whether attitudes are softening amid landmark deals for the likes of Everton.

Guido offers insight on the nuances of identifying a stadium naming rights partner, how to balance fan sentiment with commercial ambition, and why the next era of venue sponsorships will be defined by authentic storytelling, cultural relevance, and year-round engagement.

The SportsPro Podcast goes on the road to London Stadium for SportsPro AI 2025, where Sam Carp, Ed Dixon, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim take the pulse of a rapidly shifting tech landscape. From the battle for AI leadership to the challenges of stitching together multi-technology partnerships with major leagues, the team reflect on the biggest talking points from the day.

Recorded on-site, the episode also features perspectives from some of the event’s headline speakers, including the IOC’s head of AI, Microsoft’s worldwide strategy director, and the Premier League’s director of digital media and audience development.

And stick around until the end to see the moment the SportsBizBlitz crowns a new winner - and the old title holder’s reaction to being dethroned in dramatic fashion.

The SportsPro Podcast is back, and this time Ed Dixon, Steve McCaskill and Sam Carp dive into the boom – and possible bust – of sports documentaries. From the pandemic-era surge that delivered global hits like The Last Dance and Drive to Survive, to the wave of imitators that followed, the team debate whether the magic of sports docs is starting to fade.

So, is it the end? Not quite but the golden boom has definitely passed. Sports docs are settling into a new phase, moving past the copycat era into smarter, more niche storytelling that still knows how to hook an audience.

Tune in for a lively discussion on the fine line between entertainment and authenticity in sports docuseries. And yes, the quiz no one asked for makes another appearance!

Recorded at Spotify UK Headquarters.

For more information on the SportsPro Media Summit, visit https://media.sportspro.com/.

The SportsPro Podcast returns with a motorsport special as resident expert Cian Brittle breaks down the key narratives shaping the 2025 Formula 1 season.

From the sport’s rapidly evolving commercial landscape and a surge in global sponsorships to McLaren’s impressive resurgence and the budding Norris-Piastri rivalry, there’s no shortage of storylines to explore.

The team also explore the shifting dynamics under Liberty Media’s leadership and assess the potential impact of Apple’s growing interest in F1’s US broadcast rights.

It’s a deep dive into the forces driving the future of motorsport – and yes, the quiz no one asked for makes a return. Recorded at Spotify UK Headquarters.

The SportsPro Podcast returns, and this time the team takes a deep dive into SportsPro’s inaugural Investment Summit, held in Central London last month.

Ed Dixon, Steve McCaskill, Sam Carp and Josh Sim reflect on a landmark event that brought together more than 200 industry leaders, investors and key stakeholders to explore where new capital is flowing into sport.

Alongside their highlights from the day – including the £500 million sales of The Hundred teams, the growing influence of private equity, and the global executives entering the market – the team also revisit four key interviews conducted on-site with leading investors and decision-makers. Plus, the team looks ahead as the Investment Summit prepares to go stateside in 2026 as part of SportsPro New York.

Recorded at Spotify UK Headquarters.

The SportsPro Podcast is back - and it's back with a fresh new look.

As a landmark summer of women’s sport continues, Ed Dixon, Steve McCaskill, Sam Carp and Josh Sim get behind the mic to reflect on Women’s Euro 2025 and preview the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Steve kicks off proceedings by reminiscing about his trip to Basel for the Women's Euro final before the panel discuss the potential commercial impact of England’s second consecutive title.

They also dig into the sponsorship strategy for the Women's Rugby World Cup, pick out the potential stars of the tournament and consider what it will take for rugby to have its Lionesses moment.

Plus: Some Premier League predictions, the all-new Sports Biz Blitz and a rugby-themed quiz no one asked for.

Recorded at Spotify UK Headquaters

Launched in June, Impact X is a bold new initiative from SportsPro and SportQuake which spotlights the most impactful, creative and effective partnerships in sport.

Featuring unique collaborations and original ideas that are redefining the landscape of sports marketing, Impact X showcases 50 of the best partnerships and activations from the past five years – spanning innovative uses of technology and compelling athlete-led content campaigns, to social impact initiatives and award-winning cultural crossovers.

On this episode, SportQuake CMO Olivia Gillibrand joins SportsPro’s Michael Long and fellow Impact X advisory panel member Steve Martin, the founding partner of MSQ Sport + Entertainment, to discuss the project and the standout work featured within it.

Key talking points:

How impact is defined in this new era of sports marketing
The key ingredients for a truly impactful collaboration
How strategic clarity and creative inspiration unlock marketing effectiveness
How brands can leverage creators and online communities to build audience connections and cultural relevance
Brand x sport partnerships to watch this year

To find out more about Impact X and download the full casebook, click here.

The Covid hiatus led to promises of major reforms in the sports industry, but has anything really changed?

Five (and a bit) years on from the coronavirus pandemic, SportsPro's Cian Brittle, Elena Kouyoufa, Michael Long and Sam Carp reflect on how the sports industry has (and hasn’t) transformed since.

From the rising tide of private equity and the emergence of newfangled fan engagement tools like NFTs to bubble tournaments and fake crowd noise, the team discuss what ideas have tested positive and what would be better left in lockdown.

With the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season in full swing, Subhayu Roy, director of CricViz in India, joins the podcast to lift the lid on how the Ellipse Data-owned cricket data and analytics provider is powering teams to success, delivering insights across everything from fan engagement to performance analysis.

Talking points:

Why the IPL is a commercial juggernaut
The work CricViz does with the IPL and the difference it makes
Trends and shifts in how IPL teams are leveraging data
Effectively gathering and presenting data

Zimbabwean Kirsty Coventry is the first woman and first African to be elected as president of the International Olympic Committee in its 130-year history. At 41, the former swimmer turned politician is also set to become the youngest person ever to hold perhaps the most influential position in global sport.
In this episode, SportsPro’s Michael Long, Sam Carp and Ed Dixon reflect on the vote that saw Coventry, a former Olympic gold medallist in the pool, make history by defeating her rivals in a landslide. The trio also discuss the state of the IOC she inherits in the wake of Thomas Bach’s departure and what the future holds for the ever-evolving Olympic movement.
Key talking points:
• How the presidential vote went down
• What skills and experience Coventry brings to the presidency
• Bach’s tenure and the commercial health of the Olympic brand
• Where Coventry stands on the big issues, such as athlete compensation and gender eligibility
• What comes next for the IOC and wider Olympic movement

To mark International Women's Day and shine a light on the barriers facing young girls in sport, SportsPro's Katie Preston and Elena Kouyoufa – co-hosts of the newly launched NEW ERA podcast – sit down with Stacie June, Global Head of Education & Advocacy at Dove, to explore how the personal care brand is tackling the dropout crisis.

Last year, Dove was among 11 brands inducted into the Laureus Sport for Good Index, recognised for its efforts in driving positive impact through sport. Central to this is the Body Confident Sport initiative, a partnership with Nike aimed at redefining body confidence and keeping more girls engaged in sport.

On this episode, we discuss:

Why girls are dropping out of sport at twice the rate of boys, and how brands can help reverse the trend
The power of purpose-driven partnerships and the role of brands outside of sport in driving real change
How Dove is using its platform to challenge beauty standards and build a more inclusive sports culture

Find out more about NEW ERA here

One year ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup and in what could be Lionel Messi’s final year in the league, the 2025 MLS season is now underway.

As the competition celebrates its 30th year, Michael Long, Sam Carp and Josh Sim assess the commercial growth of the league, including its sponsorship portfolio, global following and broadcast partnership with Apple.

Then, the trio reflect on the success of the NHL’s inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, which was a huge television hit in North America.

There’s also time to ponder potential lessons from Cristiano Ronaldo streaming the Premier Padel P1 event on his YouTube channel, as well as what’s next for DAZN after it announced a long-rumoured investment from Saudi Arabia’s SURJ Sports Investments.

Content we mentioned:

MLS Commercial Guide
The Health Check: Why MLS sponsorship growth is about more than just Messi
Canada v USA 4 Nations Face-Off final draws 16.2m viewers across North America
Cristiano Ronaldo’s YouTube channel becomes Premier Padel broadcaster
Saudi Arabia’s SURJ takes ‘US$1bn’ stake in DAZN

On this special episode recorded for SportsPro’s Impact Week, editorial director Michael Long is joined by Wayne Mumford, sports and leisure director at RSK Group.

As one of the world’s leading sustainable engineering companies, RSK has built its sprawling business implementing sustainable solutions across a range of sectors, from water to energy - and now it’s turning its attention to sport.

Mumford, a former commercial director in soccer, joins the show to discuss his personal experience of operating in the industry and why sports organisations need to get serious about environmental sustainability – not only for the good of the planet, but for the benefit of their balance sheet. He also lifts the lid on RSK’s business model and how it’s helping clubs and venue operators achieve both short and long-term savings through investments in sustainable infrastructure.

Key talking points:

Why most loss-making soccer clubs are sitting on an untapped revenue opportunity
The challenge of getting sustainability on the boardroom agenda
Balancing short-term commercial imperatives with sustained environmental action
Sport’s wider role and influence in tackling climate change

This episode forms part of SportsPro’s Impact Week, a five-day run of exclusive content profiling sport’s social and environmental impact. Click here to find out more and access every piece of content for free.

SportsPro’s annual 20 ideas to invest in now spotlights the most noteworthy sports technology startups in the industry. In this tech special Sam Carp, Ed Dixon and Steve McCaskill break down this year’s list, discuss the findings from the tech investor roundtable, and there’s another quiz.

The team also discuss why Football Manager 2025 has been cancelled and how the soccer management game is now directly influencing on-field performance and fan engagement, and there’s a bit of time to reflect on Super Bowl LIX.

In part two, we speak to Trickshot, a member of this year’s ideas to invest in now class of 2025, about its technology, its business and development journey, and how it's already working with the likes of the NBA and Australian Open.

Content we mentioned:

20 sports tech ideas to invest in now – Class of 2025
Investor roundtable: Sports tech experts on the next phase of AI, overhyped trends, and the impact of Trump
Sports Interactive and Sega cancel Football Manager 2025 video game
Record ratings, free streaming and Brady in the booth: Super Bowl LIX broadcasting stories to watch out for

As anticipation builds for Super Bowl LIX, Sam Carp, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim discuss what they’ll be looking out for when the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans this weekend.

After a quickfire quiz to determine which of the two teams is winning the commercial battle off the field, the trio talk through the big business around the NFL’s championship game, what to expect from the broadcast on Fox, and the commercials already catching their eye.

In part two of the show, Steve is joined by Marissa Daly, the vice president and general manager of media for the Los Angeles Rams, to hear how the franchise is using real-time data to generate immersive highlights for the infinity screen at SoFi Stadium.

Content we mentioned:

NFL commercial guide
Chiefs v Bills becomes most-watched AFC Championship game in NFL history
Roger Goodell: NFL media rights “undervalued”, contract opt-outs offer “significant opportunity”
Super Bowl commercials on Fox sell for record ‘US$8m’
Stella Artois | David & Dave: The Big News
When Sally Met Hellmann's :30 - Super Bowl Commercial 2025
NFL teams ‘not allowed’ to launch on Bluesky
LA Rams become first NFL team to provide data-driven in-stadium highlights

With the Six Nations back on our screens this weekend, Ed Dixon, Michael Long and Sam Carp sit down to preview the tournament.

The trio discuss the rumours around the tournament potentially switching to a pay-TV broadcaster in the UK, if a culture shift in rugby would mean more growth, and whether the sport can really crack the US market.

There’s also time to unpick the latest goings on at Ineos amid continued unrest at Manchester United and an acrimonious split with sailing legend Ben Ainslie, before taking a look at the NBA’s plans in Europe after commissioner Adam Silver talked up the potential for a new league on the continent.

Articles we mentioned…

Six Nations likely to stay on FTA in UK as TNT Sports distances itself from bid

Six Nations TV rights soon to be up for grabs

Ilona Maher: Rugby union needs culture shift to create stars and grow

Rugby must ‘do things differently’ to break into US, says Roc Nation president

Ainslie ‘astounded’ at Ineos America’s Cup split

Manchester United get government backing for Old Trafford regeneration project

Adam Silver: NBA looking “very closely” at European league launch

After seeing Donald Trump sworn in for a second term as president of the United States, Sam Carp, Michael Long and Ed Dixon consider what impact his return to the White House will have on sport.

The trio reflect on the role team owners and other sporting personalities played in helping the 78-year-old win November's election before looking ahead to some of the major events set to take place under his watch, including the 2026 Fifa World Cup and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

As the PGA Tour and LIV Golf continue to hammer out a peace deal, there's also time to discuss what Trump's warm relationship with Saudi Arabia could mean for the future of golf and the wider industry.

Articles we mentioned...

US sports owners make huge political donations. Which party does your team’s give to?
TikTok access in US restored after brief ban-imposed blackout
DAZN ‘nears’ US$1bn investment from Saudi PIF
TKO and Saudi Arabia ‘close’ to launching new boxing league
Saudi Arabia’s SURJ partners with Enfield Investment to boost global sports portfolio
Investors aim to raise US$5bn for ‘F1-style’ international basketball league

New year, new leagues... Reviewing the TGL's debut and what to expect from Unrivaled

There have barely been three weeks of 2025 but several new sports leagues have already been making their debut.

In this episode, Sam Carp, Ed Dixon and Josh Sim discuss what they liked and what they didn't about the TGL's inaugural match and look ahead to the highly anticipated tip-off of three-on-three women's basketball league Unrivaled this weekend.

Meanwhile, Josh shares the key takeaways from his interview with League One Volleyball chief operating officer Rosie Spaulding before the trio hedge their bets on which of the three sports properties are best placed for success.

There's also time to hear from our friends on the StreamTime Sports podcast, as Chris Stone and Steve McCaskill break down the demise of US sports streaming joint venture Venu Sports.

Michael Long, Sam Carp and Ed Dixon kick off 2025 by reviewing SportsPro’s list of Ten Influencers for the year ahead.

With representatives from the worlds of sports media, women’s soccer, major events and more all featuring in the list, the trio discuss why these individuals are going to be shaping the sporting agenda in the coming months and how their influence will be felt across the industry.

Find out more here 🔗 https://www.sportspro.com/insights/features/ten-influencers-2025-michele-kang-bob-iger-caitlin-clark-nike-netflix-saudi-arabia/

Chaos is the order of the day as SportsPro's annual Christmas quiz returns. There's a cameo from quizmaster George Breare as he oversees three rounds of sports-based questions to decide who comes out on top in the battle of the SportsPro editorial department, with Tom Bassam and Sam Carp teaming up to take on Steve McCaskill and Ed Dixon. Who wins? Tune in to find out.

Fifa's Club World Cup has a broadcaster, with DAZN paying $1 billion for the global rights to air the tournament next year. Tom Bassam is joined by SportsPro's Steve McCaskill and Ed Dixon to discuss whether it's time to take Gianni Infantino's pet project a bit more seriously. Also on the agenda are outgoing ICC chair Greg Barclay's less than kind comments about the state of cricket and the Bundesliga's resolved rights situation.

The WSL is already the leading women's domestic league in Europe, but it has bigger goals. Zarah Al-Kudcy joined the organisation from Chelsea as the top two tiers of the English women's game became independent of the FA under the leadership of Nikki Doucet.

Al-Kudcy is the final guest in this series of How to Win, joining SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham and NorthStar Solutions Group CEO Chris Collins to explain how the WSL is being set up for success.

Marina Storti is the CEO of WTA Ventures, the CVC-backed commercial arm of the WTA Tour. She was named as one of SportsPro’s ten influencers for 2024 and it’s fair to say she’s delivered, with the elite women’s tennis tour growing its revenues 24% this year. To reflect on that success and discuss the WTA Tour’s future, Sam Carp made the short trip to Storti’s office for an in-depth conversation.

Brighton are one of the most-admired football clubs in the business and one of the people who have helped oversee the Seagulls' dramatic rise is CEO Paul Barber.

Working closely with data-obsessed owner Tony Bloom, Barber has overhauled Brighton's operations and got the club into a position off the field where they can rival the giants of the game on it. As one of the few with a key to Brighton's famously guarded black box of data, Barber is the ideal guest to join SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham and NorthStar Solutions Group CEO Chris Collins for a conversation about reading the right numbers to achieve success.

With the dust having settled on a lively week of industry conversation at SportsPro Madrid, here are Tom Bassam and Steve McCaskill’s thoughts on the state of the sports media business from the event.

Sandwiched between takeaways from the onstage discussion is Steve’s interview with Anna Thompson, head of women’s sport at the BBC.

British Cycling is one of the jewels in the crown of UK Sport but has endured its struggles in recent years, both in terms of governance and commercially.

Jon Dutton joined the NGB as CEO, having previously served in the same role at the delayed Rugby League World Cup 2021, and has set about re-establishing a high-performance culture at British Cycling. Given that experience, Dutton was the ideal guest to join SportsPro CEO and NorthStar Solutions Group CEO Chris Collins to discuss the delivery of the strategies required to achieve those goals in the business of sport.

Over six instalments of this special series from SportsPro and strategy realisation specialist NorthStar, we'll be hearing from top leaders across the sports industry with the primary objective of uncovering what it really takes to win in their field. Subscribe to the SportsPro Podcast feed to make sure you don't miss an episode.

In a conversation recorded at SportsPro Madrid, Tom Bassam talks to Guy Laurent-Epstein, Uefa's marketing director, with their wide-ranging conversation covering Euro 2024, the revamped Champions League, the Conference League and the direction of the women's game.

You've acquired another company, now what?

Two Circles has been on a buying spree this year, recently snapping up KORE and Spring Media in a pair of moves that significantly grew the sports marketing agency's global footprint.

For the latest episode of How to Win, Two Circles CEO Gareth Balch joins SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham and Chris Collins, president and CEO of NorthStar Solutions Group, to forensically examine how to make a success of an acquisition.

Over six instalments of this special series from SportsPro and strategy realisation specialist NorthStar, we'll be hearing from top leaders across the sports industry with the primary objective of uncovering what it really takes to win in their field. Subscribe to the SportsPro Podcast feed to make sure you don't miss an episode.

This isn't a podcast, this is a strategy meeting for an early-stage business that wants to has identified sport as a sector to spend its marketing budget in and sees social impact as the best way to build consumer affinity.

This high-level meeting is led by SportsPro Podcast host Tom Bassam, with Katie Cross, the CEO of Pledgeball, and Gunnar Hagstrom, head of strategic partnerships at Laureus, also on the board.

The second episode of our new series on how to win in the business of sport sees the conversation turn to tech.

Rachel Jacobson, Infinite Reality's CRO, and president of business ventures and partnerships, has done it. As president she built up the Drone Racing League to secure a $250m sale and know how to take a challenger through the glass ceiling with clever use of tech.

In the second episode of How to Win, Jacobson discusses the secrets of her strategy with SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham and Chris Collins, president and CEO of NorthStar Solutions Group.

Over six instalments of this special series from SportsPro and strategy realisation specialist NorthStar, we'll be hearing from top leaders across the sports industry with the primary objective of uncovering what it really takes to win in their field. Subscribe to the SportsPro Podcast feed to make sure you don't miss an episode.

Tom Bassam is joined by a couple of sports venue experts as he sits down with Jonathan Nelson, global head of digital at Populous, and OnePlan founder and CEO, Paul Foster, to talk about the future of the space. Populous is the leading firm in sports and entertainment venue architecture, while OnePlan is a five-year old business specialising in digital twin technology - essentially AI-powered virtual representations of physical spaces - like football stadiums or event venues. Together, with AI technology unlocking new possibilities, the two companies are collaborating to unlock greater understanding about the stadiums and arenas fans flock to, as well as helping those who manage them make sure those spaces are being used in the most optimal fashion.

It all starts with a strategy but how do you make sure that plan is being realised to its fullest potential?

In How to Win, a new six-part podcast series from SportsPro and strategy realisation specialist NorthStar Solutions Group, we hear from top leaders across the sports industry with the primary objective of uncovering what it really takes to win in their field.

Episode one sees SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham and Chris Collins, president and CEO of NorthStar, welcome Bruin Capital CEO George Pyne for a high-level conversation about how an active investor can put in place the right building blocks to maximise returns when it comes time to exit.

Want to learn from some of the best in the business? Here's something new from SportsPro... How to Win.

This new six-part podcast series, in collaboration with our friends at Northstar Solutions Group, features some of the top industry leaders and hones in on how to successfully implement the strategies required to win in the business of sports.

Launching on 6th November, episode one sees Bruin Capital CEO and founder George Pyne join SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham and Northstar CEO Chris Collins to discuss delivering ROI as an investor. The rest of the series will be released weekly every Wednesday, subscribe to the SportsPro Podcast feed to ensure you never miss an episode.

An invitation to the T100 Triathlon World Tour stop-off in Ibiza was a bit too good to turn down, so SportsPro packed its bag and hopped on a plane. From on the ground in Ibiza Town, Tom Bassam brings you interviews with PTO CEO Sam Renouf and others to find out how this venture-backed new-ish sports property is doing things a little bit differently in a bid to take triathlon mainstream.

While the pay gap between the stars of the WSL and the Premier League remains large, the realities of life as a professional footballer are consistent - a short career at the top of your earning potential and a high risk of injury. To learn more about how the game is changing for the new generation of women’s pros, Tom Bassam is joined by a couple of specialists in the field, Arthur Fane from Miller Insurance’s specialist sports team and Sophie Barrington, who leads on sport and entertainment in Barclays’ wealth management division.

SportsPro’s latest annual 50 Most Marketable Athletes list is out now and, as ever, throws up some fascinating names. Tom Bassam is joined by Sam Carp and Ed Dixon to discuss the rankings, powered by Northstar Solutions Group, while also analysing the trends that emerge from this years’s list.

You can download an expanded list of the top 150 athletes, featuring a full statistical breakdown, here.

With the new NBA season upon us, Tom Bassam is joined by Josh Sim to talk about the differing trends in the US sports media market compared to Europe. There's also some discussion on the US major leagues' overseas endeavours, (25:54) with the NFL UK's general manager Henry Hodgson also dialling in to provide an update on the London games and more.

Depending on where you get your news (literally), Manchester City’s legal challenge to the Premier League over associated party transactions was highly successful or not particularly seismic. Tom Bassam is joined by Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim to get the bottom of it. We also learn what AI thinks about Steve’s sailing knowledge and discuss some of the technological innovations that are powering the upcoming America’s Cup.

So we know the Club World Cup final will be at MetLife Stadium but otherwise little else about Fifa’s new tournament. To pick holes in the plan, Tom Bassam is joined by Ed Dixon and Sam Carp, who also discuss the state of British basketball, as well as the new NHL season. Then, in part two, BodyArmor’s Tom Gargiulo takes us inside the sports drink brand’s marketing strategy.

AI: dangerous threat or the technology that will set us free? The truth, of course, is somewhere in between. To discover more Tom Bassam and Steve McCaskill went along to the inaugural SportsPro AI event at London Stadium where they found out how sports is embracing AI, as well as how the rapidly-evolving technology is shaping the future.

The FA has handed over control of the Women's Super League to the newly-created Women's Professional Leagues. Now CEO Nikki Doucet is at the helm, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim join Tom Bassam to discuss the status of the women's game in England. Also on the agenda are the ever-shifting picture in the RSN market and the proposed ATP-WTA merger.

Next week sees the first round of the Champions League’s new group stage, but will it work and for who? To answer that question Sam Carp and Ed Dixon join Tom Bassam. Also discussed are the influence of AI in sports media and a reflection on the impact of Alex Morgan’s career.

The NFL is back, the SportsPro staff fantasy draft has taken place and to celebrate StreamTime Sports co-host Chris Stone swaps pods to join Tom Bassam and Josh Sim for a discussion on the biggest developments during the off-season. In part two (32:01) we try to figure out how and if a proper European division of the NFL would work, plus Steve McCaskill pops in to talk about AI Week.

When we need a motorsport expert at SportsPro Towers we turn to BlackkBook's Cian Brittle. The host of the Mics Out podcast joins Tom Bassam to reveal the three biggest off-track storylines of the current F1 season. Plus there is a bit of chat about Liberty Media's takeover of MotoGP and Adidas on the grid.

Football fans love a clean kit with minimal branding but the C-suite, very much, do not. Despite what looks like an experienced team of sports executives running Chelsea, the Premier League club have started a second season in a row without a principal partner, but why? Tom Bassam, Sam Carp and Josh Sim seek to answer that question before also assessing a disastrous set of financial results for Warner Bros. Discovery. Then, ahead of the Paralympic Games, we hear Sam's interview with IPC president Andrew Parsons.

The Premier League is SO back. Here to talk about it are SportsPro's Tom Bassam and Ed Dixon as they cover the most-pressing off-field issues ahead of the start of the new English top-flight season. Manchester City's 115 alleged rule breaches, Everton's ongoing sale saga, the new football regulator and the potential of overseas Premier League games all get some airtime, plus there's a few customary predictions on what the next nine months has in store

What are companies doing to drive positive change and promote more 'badass' women in the sports business industry? LiveScore Group's general counsel and board member, Rani Wynn, joins SportsPro's Elena Kouyoufa to explore strategies and initiatives that are reshaping the landscape for women in the industry. Discover how LiveScore Group is tackling outdated hiring practices, fostering diversity, and actively supporting their employees.

Steve McCaskill takes over the baton for the final leg of the Olympic Briefing as we hear from USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland, IPC president Andrew Parsons and Atos, as well as paying a visit to Eurosport's rooftop studio.

DAZN now has a slice of domestic football rights in four of Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues so SportsPro deputy editor Ed Dixon joins Tom Bassam to discuss the sport’s media company’s latest moves, including the deal for Ligue 1 in France. Also on the agenda is rebounding Olympic viewership and the arrival of IPL money into English county cricket. In part two, Sam Carp speaks to USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland about Team USA’s future funding plans.

Noah Lyles won the tightest 100m men's final ever with SportsPro's Sam Carp watching on at the Stade de France. We hear what the fastest man in the world wants to do next, the latest in the women's boxing gender row, Simone Biles' impact on USA Gymnastics and how On Location has been getting on with hospitality sales.

Sam will be back with the final Olympic Briefing on Friday. If you enjoy this special episode please leave us a review.

Sam Carp has been criss-crossing across Paris to bring us his second Olympic Briefing. In this episode, he gets the inside track on how Coca-Cola is trying to show responsibility on reducing plastic waste, speaks to NBC's Gary Zenkel about what Snoop Dogg is adding to the US coverage and how Paris 2024 is proving an effective fundraiser for minority sports.

Sam will be back with another Olympic Briefing on Tuesday. If you enjoy this special episode please leave us a review.

As four-time gold medallist Michael Johnson knows very well, athletics is one of - if not the - biggest ticket events at the Olympic Games. Ahead of the start of the Paris 2024 track and field competition, the US sprint legend explains to Sam Carp why the time is now to launch his new athletics series and how Grand Slam Track will revolutionise the sport without resorting to gimmicks.

Sam Carp has arrived in Paris after an Olympic opening ceremony that flirted with controversy, but thankfully saw no major security issues arise. In the first of our special Olympic Briefing episodes from Paris 2024 we hear from Tony Estanguet and Michael Johnson on the ambitious curtain raiser, while Sam also has updates from 142nd IOC session.

Sam will be back with another Olympic Briefing on Friday. If you enjoy this special episode please leave us a review.

The eyes of the sporting world are turning to Paris as the Olympics gets underway with Friday's opening ceremony. Tom Bassam is joined by SportsPro features editor Sam Carp and technology editor Steve McCaskill to preview Paris 2024, while they also discuss what changes they would make to the sports programme.

Talking points:

Pre-Games news (2:12)
What we're looking out for (11:56)
What sports aren't in the Olympics but should be? (24:59)
What sports should be dropped? (30:51)

All the tears have now dried after Euro 2024 so it's time to unpick the last month's events in Germany. Tom Bassam is joined by SportsPro features editor, Sam Carp, and reporter Josh Sim for a review of the tournament.

Talking points:

Did Euro 2024 deliver? (2:20)
Talent v broadcasters (6:11)
What we learned from the Euros (9:18)
Who changed their narrative during the tournament? (20:12)
Favourite moments and looking back at our predictions (26:26)

Now we're through Q1 and Q2, it's about time to recognise the sports industry's outstanding performers in first half of 2024. SportsPro Podcast host Tom Bassam is joined on the judging panel by deputy editor, Ed Dixon, and features editor, Sam Carp.

Categories:

Executive of the year so far (1:29)
Property of the year so far (15:30)
Deal of the year so far (26:12)
Marketing campaign of the year (37:48)
I don't believe in this idea award (45:04)

These are changing times at Manchester United with new minority owner Jim Ratcliffe undertaking a root and branch overhaul of the club. Tom Bassam, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim discuss the good and bad of the changes at Old Trafford, plus reports of Fifa wanting $2bn to beef up its OTT service, the role of esports, as well as AI in the sports industry. Then, in part two (37:20), Dizplai CEO Ed Abis joins the pod to talk about leading change in his business.

How do top female leaders juggle professional success and a personal life? Kate Miller, the ECB's chief communications and diversity officer, addresses the challenge head on in a candid conversation with SportsPro's Elena Kouyoufa. Kate, who is a NEW ERA steering group member, discusses navigating parenthood while also remaining professionally ambitious, upholding a strong internal compass and striving for meaningful change in the sports industry.

This week's guest is Michael Yormark, president of Roc Nation Sports International, the man taking Jay-Z's talent-led vision to the global sports industry. In an in-depth interview with Tom Bassam, Yormark explains how he left the US with a suitcase five years ago before going on to create a global sports agency with the likes of Vinicius Junior and Siya Kolisi on its books.

Talking points:

How Roc Nation signs and serves modern athletes
Yormark's view on the changing landscape of athlete marketing
Reflections on five years of Roc Nation Sports International
The vision for Vinicius Junior

A Hungarian striker primed to sell you power drills, a German defender-cum TV star and a keeper with his own partnerships web page, this is SportsPro’s entirely scientific and deeply researched Euro 2024 most marketable XI.

Hosted by Ed Dixon, alongside Sam Carp, Steve McCaskill and Tom Bassam, this episode was recorded live from Hotel Mundial. Thanks to the kind folks at Footballco for having us.

The Football Ramble is an 'OG' sports podcast in the UK and Luke Moore has seen it grow from a hobby into the centrepiece of a successful, independent production company. Now the chief operating officer of Stak, Luke talks to Tom Bassam about sports podcasting, growing an audience and running a creative media business.

Euro 2024 is here, so to answer all the serious (and less serious) commercial questions ahead of the tournament, SportsPro Podcast host Tom Bassam is joined by features editor Sam Carp and technology editor Steve McCaskill.

Talking points:

Euro 2024 true or false (2:07)
Big tournament trends (19:56)
Predictions (32:58)

The advent of artificial intelligence is the biggest tech innovation since the dawn of the Internet. The sports industry, much like the rest of society, is still figuring out how to use it effectively, but companies like Relative Insight are leading the way. Tom Bassam speaks to Rauri Hadlington, business development director at Relative Insight, to understand more about the sports industry could - and should - be using AI.

Ice Cube is many things: a rapper, a film star, producer and more recently - with the Big3 - a sports mogul. The 'fireball' 3x3 basketball league that Cube co-founded with Jeff Kwatinetz has defied pessimistic projections to survive seven years and nine seasons, selling out arenas while airing on major US network TV. Speaking to Tom Bassam, Cube and Kwatinetz discuss selling Big3 franchises, the league's future and how the rapper's career has influenced his approach to being the CEO of a sports organisation.

Talking points:

Franchising the Big3 (1:26)
Getting the right type of owners (8:27)
Taking risks (21:08)
What Cube's learned about owning a sports property (25:36)

A trailblazer in the tennis world, Katrina Adams has consistently championed gender equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout her career. Firstly as a player, then as a leader at the UTSA, US Open and the Fed Cup.Speaking to SportsPro’s Elena Kouyoufa as part of Women’s Sport Week, Adams discusses the initiatives she has spearheaded, her efforts to create equal opportunities in sports, and the journey that led her to receive the prestigious IOC’s 2023 Global Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion award.

A packed out TD Place full of young Ottawa fans have come to watch their team try to make the playoffs and SportsPro's Tom Bassam was lucky to have one of the best seats in the house. This is the PWHL, North America's incredibly popular, new elite women's ice hockey competition that is smashing attendance and viewership records in its first season. PWHL Ottawa's GM, Michael Hirshfeld, and Ottawa Tourism's Lesley Pincombe explain the impact of the new franchise in the Canadian capital, as well as what more the city has to offer as a sports destination.

Few sports properties in the world are embracing sustainability like the World Rally Championship. Co-hosting the Beyond Rally Forum, the most recent event in the FIA's Sustainable Innovation Series, was the latest initiative undertaken by the WRC to demonstrate its green credentials. We sent Cian Brittle to Porto get the inside track on the sustainability conversation in motorsport and speak to some of the key players in the space.

Talking points:

Interview with Sara Mariani, the FIA's director of sustainability and diversity and inclusion (1:12)
Martin Popilka, CEO of P1 Fuels, on the potential impact of green fuel in WRC and for the automotive industry (26:09)
Santiago Peña Gomez, WRC Promoter's sustainability manager, explains how the series is putting its new Sustainability Roadbook into action (34:02)
Cian's final thoughts (1:00:06)

The year started with an Africa Cup of Nations that broke all manner of records and cut through globally unlike any tournament before. Now, with major players such as Fifa, the NFL and NBA all finally realising the continent's potential, 2024 could be a breakout year for African sport.

Kicking off a new content series delving into the African sports landscape, SportsPro editorial director Michael Long and Pulse Sports MD James Torvaney speak to Sherif Hassan, head of digital and marketing products at the Confederation of African Football, about the sports business opportunity in Africa.

Richard Gould, CEO of the ECB, comes into the SportsPro Podcast studio to give his view from the top on the health of English cricket. Speaking exclusively to Tom Bassam, Gould discusses the role of the county game in 2024, dealing with the challenges of the IPL, investment in The Hundred, cricket on TV and the exciting future of the women's game.

Edmonton's history as a hotbed for women's basketball dates back more than a century with the all-conquering Edmonton Grads. Now with Fiba 3x3 events and the WNBA coming to the capital of Alberta, that tradition continues. SportsPro's Tom Bassam speaks to Janelle Janis, Executive Director of Business Development and Events with Explore Edmonton and the WNBA chief marketing officer, Phil Cook, to learn more about the city's credentials as an elite sports destination.

SportsPro's Katie Preston talks to Gemma Woor, a member of this year's NEW ERA class and a senior client director at the MKTG agency, about being a female in the sports industry and some of the initiatives she's involved in to improve it for women in the future.

The Women's Super League is under new management and top of the org chart is former Nike executive Nikki Doucet. Speaking to Sam Carp at SportsPro Live 2024 the CEO of NewCo, the commercial entity that is set to take over running the top two tiers of English women's soccer, discusses her vision for the WSL and how the league can forge a new path for women's sports.

Talking points:

The opportunity for the NewCo with the WSL (2:02)
The broadcast rights picture and other revenue streams (10:18)
Investing in equitable opportunities (14:14)
Where and how the WSL reaches fans (22:58)
Doucet's vision for the WSL (25:03)
Reflections on the interview (27:03)

Last week Premier League ushered out the PSR era and in the dawn of 'squad cost' regulations - meaning the amount clubs can spend on players will be index rated against revenues. The Price of Football's Kieran Maguire joins Tom Bassam to unpack what it all means and provide a look across the financial landscape of English soccer's top flight.

Jon Rahm arrives at Augusta not only as defending champion but also as a member of a different tour to 12 months ago. Tom Bassam is joined by SportsPro technology editor, Steve McCaskill, to discuss the current state of the game, LIV Golf's continued disruption and some of the technology that will be on show during the Masters.

The owners of F1, Liberty Media, will now control the two biggest global motorsport properties after agreeing to pay €3.5bn for 86% of MotoGP's commercial rightsholder, Dorna Sports. The BlackBook Motorsport team of Cian Brittle, Alice Evans and Tom Brown discuss the deal as the SportsPro Podcast taps into the knowledge of Mics Out (1:18). Then, regularly scheduled programming resumes with Tom Bassam, Sam Carp and Arif Islam hitting a few of the biggest stories in the sports industry, right now.

Talking points:

Liberty Media's MotoGP takeover (1:18)
The German FA splits up with Adidas (16:19)
Ipswich Town valued at £260m as it gets investment injection (23:15)
A-Rod's deal to buy the Minnesota Timberwolves collapses (30:56)

Find all episodes of Mics Out here.

The opening day of the 2024 IPL season brought in 590m video views for JioCinema, showing nothing moves the needle in sports like Indian's Twenty20 franchise cricket behemoth. How far will the tournament's influence grow? Here trying to answer that question are SportsPro's Ed Dixon, Josh Sim and Tom Bassam.

Amid a very publicly announced antitrust lawsuit, FuboTV CEO David Gandler has described the new streaming service from ESPN, Fox and Warner Bros Discovery as a 'streaming cartel'. With Gandler one of the speakers at SportsPro New York, we took the opportunity to take the temperature of the industry from on the ground at the Marriot Marquis.

The NWSL is back for the 2024 season with an expanded 14 franchises, a new raft of TV deals and growing interest from fans, as well as investors. Here, NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman speaks exclusively to Tom Bassam in a broad-ranging interview about the direction of women's football and how the top league in the US is working to grow the game.

4.8 million people tuned in to watch the 2023/24 World Darts Championship final between Luke Littler and Luke Humphries across Sky Sports' channels - a record for a non-football broadcast on the UK pay-TV network. Since then, Premier League Darts' has also seen increased interest and a spike in viewers as fans tune in to see 16-year-old sensation Littler's matches. The man making sure the sport capitalises on this wave in interest is PDC CEO Matt Porter, so we invited him on the podcast to discuss the booming business of darts.

Talking points:

Porter's journey to PDC CEO (1:04)
Professionalising darts (3:13)
Luke Littler and the 2023/24 World Darts Championship (15:50)
Reaching new audiences and changing times (26:34)

In this special NEW ERA podcast, SportsPro's Katie Preston, Yin Khoo and Jatila Blake discuss the true meaning of allyship and the importance of active support to achieve gender equity.
Then, in part two (33:20), Elena Kouyoufa is joined by Santo Raggiri, the founder of Fair Play Project, where he shares practical advice and insight to the work that needs to be done to achieve gender equality in sports.

Formula One returns this weekend with the Bahrain Grand Prix and, to mark the start of the new season, BlackBook Motorsport writer Cian Brittle joins the pod to discuss all the major narratives from the paddock.

Talking points:

Andretti's rejected bid to join the grid (2:56)
Keeping fans engaged when the competition is lacking (12:50)
New team sponsors and partnership challenges (22:36)
The expansion of F1 Academy (30:21)
Season predictions (37:31)

The second-ever Green Football Weekend was held earlier in February to encourage fans to adopt a more sustainable approach to following their teams. Pledgeball CEO, Katie Cross, and Helen Taylor, the former CEO of Forest Green Rovers, join the podcast to discuss the initiative and how best to tackle football's sustainability challenges.

Talking points:

What is the Green Football Weekend? (7:27)
Why the focus on reducing meat consumption? (12:26)
Are fan campaigns the most effective way of changing behaviours (16:36)
Should the English football regulator be thinking about green issues? (25:30)
Are broadcasters leading the way? (29:22)

Series five of Drive to Survive was watched for 90.2m hours in the first half of last year - one of Netflix's biggest hits. Box to Box, the creator of the show, is now applying the popular format across a number of different sports. Warren Smith, the production company's head of sport and factual, joins the podcast to give us the inside track on Box To Box's approach to making a hit sports documentary.Talking points:

Smith's background and working at Box to Box (2:10)
Why did Box to Box's style cut through so well? (9:05)
Are the stars more open to the cameras now? (15:44)
How the producers work on storylines and put the shows together (19:49)
Waiting for the call to commission the next season and keeping the series fresh (29:47)
Upcoming projects (33:51)

SportsPro has published its fifth annual class of sports technology startups worth investing your attention in. To mark the occasion, technology editor Steve McCaskill joins the pod to talk through the list before we hear from Gareth Lippiatt, co-founder and chief executive of one of the companies in this year's class, FanHub.

Talking points:

How the list comes together (1:08)
The trends in this year's list (4:08)
Steve picks his favourite startups on the list (9:58)
Gareth Lippiatt interview (18:40)

Danny Townsend, the recently installed CEO of SRJ Sports Investments, has a fun job. Counting the PIF as its sole shareholder, SRJ (pronounced 'surge') has been set up to accelerate the growth of the sports sector in Saudi Arabia by targeting the acquisition of new events IP and commercial rights. Trying to unpick what that actually means is SportsPro's Tom Bassam, who sat down with Townsend to discuss how SRJ plans to spend the kingdom's money.

Since being founded in 2016, UK-based Castore has come from nowhere to establish itself as one of the most eye-catching brands in sportswear. Brothers Tom and Phil Beahon have overseen a rise that has seen the company go from handing out apparel outside gyms to having some of the biggest names in sports wearing Castore kit. Here, Tom Beahon makes a return to the SportsPro Podcast to tell George Breare and Tom Bassam about the next stage for Castore, as well as discuss some of the challenges of growing a £1bn company amid the intense pressure of the sportswear business.

Talking points:

An update on Castore's journey (0:40)
Positioning the brand and the company culture (11:37)
Working with Andy Murray (19:35)
Bringing in new investment (24:45)
Dealing with challenges and challenging the big brands (28:50)
How Castore works with its partner teams (35:07)
Moving into new markets and sports verticals (41:29)
Running a family business (49:32)

As Everton (again) and Nottingham Forest become the latest Premier League clubs to fall foul of the Premier League's financial rules, George Breare, Tom Bassam and Josh Sim discuss that story, plus a potentially huge NFL-ESPN deal. Then Two Circles CEO Gareth Balch joins the show to talk about the Charterhouse move.

Talking points:

What's the story with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules? (1:04)
Are the rules protecting clubs at the top? (7:28)
The NFL-ESPN deal (18:03)
Two Circles acquired by Charterhouse (29:49)
Josh Sim interviews Two Circles CEO Gareth Balch (32:06)

Lenah Ueltzen-Gabell, Wasserman Group MD, and Women in Football board member Jo Tongue, who is also CEO of Tongue Tied Management - an agency that represents two of the biggest stars in the England team in Leah Williamson and Keira Walsh, as well as current Chelsea head coach Emma Hayes - join SportsPro's Tom Basam for a wide-ranging discussion about the state of play in women's football.

Talking points:

The media picture for women's football
Is it the right time go behind a paywall?
What's the right commercial structure for a game still growing?
How to take advantage of the unique appeal of women's football
Being set up for success at a governance level
Looking ahead to 2024

With SportsPro presenting its annual list of ten influential figures whose work will shape the sporting agenda over the next 12 months, George Breare, Sam Carp and Tom Bassam discuss some of the potential power players for 2024.

Two teams, three rounds of trivia based on the year in the sports industry... what could possibly go wrong? George Breare hosts SportsPro's annual end-of-year quiz as Tom Bassam and Chris Stone team up to take on Steve McCaskilll and Ed Dixon.

The final NEW ERA podcast of 2023 is a look back at some of the professional and personal moments that defined the year for Kirsty Arundale, Tori Wells and Milly Miller-Adams. Plus, a look ahead to what 2024 might have in store for both women's sports and women in sports.

A European Super Bowl, the deal of the century, and whether or not it’s fair for fans to illegally stream live Premier League... worlds collide StreamTime Sports co-hosts Nick Meacham and Chris Stone face off with the stars of the SportsPro Podcast, Tom Bassam and George Breare, in a sports business debate that seeks settle the argument once and for all.

Is piracy of the Premier League fair and inevitable?
Was the IPL's latest rights deal the most significant of the century?
Will the NFL host a Super Bowl in Europe by the end of the decade?

Sky Sports, TNT Sports the BBC have agreed new rights deals to air the Premier League until 2029 worth a reported £6.7bn. George Breare, Tom Bassam and Sam Carp pick through the details. Then (29:43), we hear DAZN CEO Shay Segev talking to SportsPro editorial director Michael Long at the recent SportsPro Madrid event.Talking points:

Initial thoughts on the new Premier League rights deals (1:11)
Is the league a winner here? (4:06)
Why is the cost per game going down? (12:22)
Streaming takes a step back and DAZN's position (16:21)
Amazon's next move in live soccer (24:02)
DAZN chief executive Shay Segev on the UK-based sports media company's plans to achieve profitability (29:43)

Ben Morel, the new CEO of LFP Media, is overseeing a CVC-backed commercial overhaul of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. He spoke to Tom Bassam at SportsPro Madrid and then we took the temperature of the delegates to get their thoughts on the new vision for French football.

How do take a 30 year old brand and relaunch it with a new name? David Jackson, EA Sports' vice president of brand, takes SportsPro technology editor Steve McCaskill on the gaming giant's journey through the launch of EA Sports FC and the plans for the soccer title going forward.

Inside the NBA star Kenny Smith and long-time Turner exec Craig Barry help Sam Carp lift the lid on why the network's flagship basketball show is such a hit, plus we learn how Warner Bros Discovery is planning to extend that success to the UK.

Talking points:

Sam Carp goes behind the scenes at Inside the NBA (0:45)
Why the show works (6:00)
Kenny Smith and the role of the pundit in sports broadcasting (9:33)
Shaq's role (18:13)
What Warner Bros Discovery hopes to bring to its NBA coverage in the UK (23:43)
Warner Bros Discovery's opportunity to take a global approach to sports broadcasting (30:39)

SportsPro is currently offering 25% off our annual Premium Memberships, you can subscribe here and use code SP25 to claim your discount. Offer expires 24th November.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix returns to Nevada for the first time since 1982, with Formula One now worlds away from the series that previously raced around the car park at Caesars Palace. BlackBook writer Cian Brittle joins the pod to explain how and why Liberty Media is gambling $500m on a completely new approach to putting on a race.

Talking points:

How we got to a new F1 grand prix in Vegas (1:00)
Is this a shift in F1's strategy for hosting races? (7:19)
Is the interest there for another F1 race in the US? (19:39)
Has F1 already peaked in the US? (26:30)
The health of Nascar and motorsport's next big rights deal (34:50)

South African rugby legend and Laureus academy member Bryan Habana joins the pod to give his take on how brands can be a force for positive social change, before TikTok's global head of sports, Harish Sarma, explains why making it into the Index is a result of a deliberate attempt to use its platform for good.

Talking points:

Bryan Habana on the Laureus perspective (1:13)
The brand view with Harish Sarma (19:27)

The 30 brands in this year's Laureus Sport for Good Index have now been revealed. Check out the Sport for Good Index hub here.

Few know more about how the NFL's overseas games are bringing in new fans than the companies that sell the tickets to the matches. As a secondary market specialist, Viagogo has a unique perspective on the industry and here, general manager, Cris Miller, explains how effective the league's overseas operations have been in creating new fans. Plus we delve into the business of resale ticketing and its role in sports.

The dawn of a new NBA season brings with it some intriguing narratives on and off the court. George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by SportsPro analyst (and resident basketball nut), Gabriel German Higinio Hoyos, to break it all down.

Talking points:

What the data tells us about the NBA's media landscape (3:10)
How the NBA is trying to boost its media value (9:55)
The NBA's audience and why that provides an edge (17:43)
Setting the scene ahead of the next rights deal (22:56)
Why the NBA is so successful overseas (31:50)

Check out the 2023/24 NBA Commercial Guide as discussed on the podcast!

SportsPro's annual 50 Most Marketable Athlete list is out now to provide a definitive guide to the power players of global sports. In this episode, host Tom Bassam chats to SportsPro's Michael Long and Sam Carp about how we put the list together alongside our 50MM partner, Northstar Solutions Group.

Talking points:

How the 2023 50MM list came together (1:23)
Why is Lionel Messi number one? (7:19)
Why authenticity matters (11:38)
NIL and the rise of athlete influencers (16:36)
QUIZ: How well do we know 50MM? (21:53)

This podcast is part of SportsPro's 2023 Athlete Week, which will also see the launch of our latest 50 Most Marketable Athletes list, in partnership with Northstar Solutions Group. Check out all our #SP50MM content on the dedicated 50mm.sportspromedia.com digital hub.

Michelle Wie West has never been afraid of being a trailblazer. At points in her career she has been the youngest ever qualifier for an LPGA Tour event, a record since taken by Ariya Jutanugarn, and the youngest female to ever play in a PGA Tour tournament. In an exclusive interview with SportsPro's Josh Sim, Wie West discusses her plans post-retirement, the health of women's golf and how she thinks about making investments.

Talking points:

• Looking back at Michelle's career and how women's golf has progressed (4:47)

• Michelle's career influences and what's shaped her mindset (7:33)

• The TGL and why being an athlete creates a unique approach to investing (14:19)

• Why female athletes need to think like investors (20:52)

• Why values are important when Michelle invests in a company (25:52)

• Michelle's key lessons for athletes looking to become investors (20:46)

This interview is part of SportsPro's 2023 Athlete Week, which will also see the launch of our latest 50 Most Marketable Athletes list, in partnership with Northstar Solutions Group. Check out all our #SP50MM content on the dedicated 50mm.sportspromedia.com digital hub.

As the puck drops on the new NHL season, Tom Bassam, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim discuss some of the major business storylines, they then try to untangle the web of mystery that is Fifa's World Cup hosting process, plus some chat on what influencer brands bring to sports.

Talking points:

Health check on the NHL (00:59)
The RSN issue (3:30)
Consumer trends among NHL fans (8:49)
The World Cup heads to... basically everywhere (13:25)
Mr Beast's Feastables and unpacking the influencer brand sports deal trend (22:04)

With the Cricket World Cup getting underway in India, George Breare, Tom Bassam and Josh Sim consider whether the ODI tournament is on its last legs.

Talking points: * Why the stakes for the Cricket World Cup are high (1:43) * The India problem (5:36) * What does the tournament’s future hold? (9:29) * How the ICC is trying to innovate (12:49) * Disney’s battle to retain its status in India(15:05) * Tournament predictions (18:47) * Why the Ryder Cup was so good and why the Solheim Cup should feel let down (22:27) * LIV Golf-PGA Tour latest (28:00) * The Ligue 1 rights pickle (31:13)

Take a listen as George Breare takes you through this years SportsPro Madrid agenda. To view the full agenda and book your pass with a special podcast discount of 30%, head to www.sportspromadrid.com and use code POD30. Discount ends Friday 6th October.

George Breare and Tom Bassam head to Sky’s west London campus for an in-depth chat with Sky Sports’ head of women’s sport Jo Osborne.
Talking points:* The new WSL season and Sky’s plans (0:47) * The next rights deal (18:57) * The rise of women’s sports and how to make the most of it as a broadcaster (21:49) * Backing up the talk on (48:31)

The latest NEW ERA special edition of the podcast sees Milly Miller-Adams, Katie Preston and Tori Wells explore what they've learned from sports.
Before Elena Kouyoufa talks to Abi Ijasanmi, COO of the African Football Confederation (CAF), about her journey in the sports industry and what she's learned along the way.

Talking points:

Welcome Tori (0:20)
Our personal learnings from sports (1:04)
How major events bring people together (8:46)
We have a new partner for NEW ERA (16:59)
CAF chief operating officer, Abi Ijasanmi, and her journey in sports (17:24)

Regular hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by SportsPro features editor Sam Carp to discuss the upcoming Solheim Cup, before Stephen Minning, founder and CEO of PAM Wayfinding, joins the pod to talk about venue technology.
Talking points: * What is the state of play in women’s golf? (1:11) * Have the Solheim Cup and the Ryder Cup missed a trick with B2B events? (4:51) * Does the Solheim Cup need to spread its wings? (8:43) * Sam also tells us about his recent night of experiential sports theatre at the Rematch, a re-telling of Muhammad Ali’s famous ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ with George Foreman (15:56) * What the concept’s potential is for the industry (22:32) * Part two: Stephen Minning tells us how PAM Wayfinding's tech makes SoFi Stadium one of the most advanced sporting venues in the world and what the future of smart destinations might look like (27:01)

Regular hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by senior staff writer Ed Dixon to discuss the latest sports industry news, including a review of YouTube’s first week as an NFL broadcaster. Then Dixon talks us through his latest long read on a decade of of Thomas Bach as IOC president.

Digital transformation will impact sports organisations of all sizes, transforming existing processes or unlocking entirely new possibilities in almost every area – on and off the pitch. Recruitment, performance, and fan engagement are but three areas that are being revolutionised by digital innovations.

Navigating an increasingly complex technological ecosystem that comprises big tech, startups and sports-specific vendors can be tricky. Mitch Heath, co-founder of Teamworks, and Katia Zavershinskaya, a technology lead who has experience working with Premier League soccer clubs, discuss what to look for when picking a technology partner, the importance of collaboration, and what the possibilities are for technology within sport.

Co-founders Xavier Green and Victorien Tixier explain the journey of establishing ScorePlay, their AI-fused content management management designed especially for the sports industry. The conversation with SportsPro’s George Breare covers all the steps of the startup’s journey, from setting up the business, to gaining high-profile athlete investors and case studies from ScorePlay’s clients, through to its future growth plans.

The NFL’s head of Europe and the UK, Brett Gosper, explains to SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham how the biggest money maker in American sports plans to grow that pie overseas.

Recorded at SportsPro Live 2023 to celebrate ten years of our flagship event, we put together a panel to predict what we have in store over the next decade in the sports industry. For this job we asked SportsPro chief executive Nick Meacham, SportsPro editorial director Michael Long and Laura Williamson, deputy editor at The Athletic, to get out their crystal balls. The voice you'll hear first is then SportsPro commercial director Paul Guest.

Spain have won, the Lionesses fell just short and Australia fell in love with the Matildas, but what does it all mean? Tom Bassam, Steve McCaskill and Josh Sim unpack the 2023 Women's World Cup.

Talking points: * Tournament takeaways (1:10) * The big winners (2:42) * Who were the losers? (9:03) * The important numbers (15:33) * Spain and the RFEF, uncomfortable winners? (23:44) * How should the FA and the Lionesses view the tournament? (29:23) * Women's World Cup breakout stars (36:03) * The sports industry stories that matter this week (39:11)

Gary Lineker, the former England striker turned Match of the Day host and founder of Goalhanger Podcasts, sits down with Tom Bassam for a wide-ranging conversation.

Talking points: * Becoming a podcast mogul with Goalhanger (1:21) * The Walkers relationship (10:50) * Lineker's media career (14:35) * How Match of the Day is made (17:50) * The role of the BBC in modern sports media (24:35)

Tom Bassam hosts a look ahead to the new season of the Premier League with SportsPro colleagues Sam Carp and Ed Dixon. The panel tackle a few key storylines dominating the headlines going into the new campaign by asking: what’s more likely? Then, Josh Sim comes on to talk about his latest feature that dives into some of the more interesting metrics that we should be on the look out for with the Premier League this season.

With 11.4 million users around the world, Fantasy Premier League is a success story in fan engagement. Alexandra Willis, director of digital media and audience development at the Premier League, explains how the English soccer competition’s official fantasy game provides value for the organisation’s commercial partners and underlines its role in promoting the league globally.

George Breare and Ed Dixon bring you the insights and sounds from SportsPro APAC 2023 from on the floor at Singapore's Marina Bay Sands.

BlackBook Motorsport writer Cian Brittle sits down for an in-depth conversation with Dorna Sports' new chief commercial officer, Dan Rossomondo, about improving the fortunes of MotoGP.

The UK media market continues to turnover, but while some things change others remain the same. Viaplay leaves as quickly as it entered, Apple indicates now is not the time for the Premier League and BT Sport becomes TNT. So where does it leave us? George Breare, Tom Bassam and Sam Carp discuss all of that and what the future holds for the Commonwealth Games.

SportsPro features editor Sam Carp makes an appearance alongside regular hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam to cast an eye Down Under as Fifa prepares for its biggest Women's World Cup yet.

Talking points: * Changing perceptions of women's soccer since the France 2019 (2:50) * Has the unbundling of the Women's World Cup rights been a success (4:57) * Will Fifa meet it two billion target for tournament viewership? (22:56) * Hitting targets on the ground in the host nations (27:50) * The equal pay issue (29:28) * Predictions (40:20)

Something different from the SportsPro Podcast, as BlackBook writer Cian Brittle talks us through his experience of Formula One's British Grand Prix.

Talking points: * Reflections on race day and a health check on Formula One at Silverstone (0:41) * What's the fan experience like at the British Grand Prix? (5:06) * Is there room for improvement? (7:39) * Can F1 Academy be a game changer for bringing in female fans? (9:41) * Report from Silverstone: Taking in the Fusion Lounge (11:17) * Report from Silverstone: Pre-race predictions (14:11) * Report from Silverstone: Post-race reaction (18:48) * Report from Silverstone: James Byrom on Match Hospitality's secrets to success at Silverstone (22:03)

For Women's Sport Week, we share a conversation between SportsPro editorial director Michael Long and Micky Lawler, the president of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The interview, recorded as part of our special series to mark the WTA's 50th anniversary, covers the early days of the tour, its progression as a business and the direction of travel as women's tennis enters a new era.

To mark Women's Sport Week at SportsPro, we have a special NEW ERA episode of the podcast with Milly Miller-Adams, Elena Kouyoufa and Katie Preston exploring the meaning of taking risks.

Our hosts take it in turns to interview three women at different stages of their careers in the sports industry to find how they view taking risks and the biggest roll of the dice they have made so far.

Talking points: * What does risk mean to you? (0:46) * Katie Bryan, senior event manager at Keith Prowse, on leaving full-time employment to take on a short-term contract (3:15) * How Sahaj Shah, product designer at Areto Labs, made the big leap from working in business development to chase her dream in a completely new role (16:49) * The story of how Gabrielle Guedj, ATP Media's director of commercial rights sales and new business development, agreed a deal that could have brought down IMG based on a handshake (31:34) * Lessons in how to think about taking risks (45:24)

Regular SportsPro Podcast hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by technology editor Steve McCaskill to talk all things SW19 as the British tennis Grand Slam takes hold for its two weeks in the sun (and rain).

In this special episode of the SportsPro Podcast we hear from Sergei Palkin, the chief executive of Ukrainian soccer powerhouse Shahktar Donetsk, about the challenge of leading change in the face of conflict as his club struggles for survival amid the Russian invasion of his homeland. Recorded at SportsPro Live 2023, Palkin is in conversation with Empower Sports' Pedro Pinto.

Talking points: * How the war changed everything for Shakhtar and the Ukrainian people (6:30) * Why was important to return to football (9:23) * Fifa, Annexe Seven and the cost of losing players (11:28) * Representation in the ECA and UEC (16:35) * Pivoting from being a recruitment strategy to a development strategy (18:18) * What others can do to support Ukrainian clubs (20:58) * The reality of operating a club in a warzone (24:51) * Quick-fire questions (30:25)

SportsPro Podcast hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam chop up the latest sports industry news and look at the impact of Netflix's latest sports docuseries, before Josh Sim joins the pod to give his thoughts on MLB's return to London.

Talking points: * Will 'Tour de France: Unchained' do for cycling what 'Drive to Survive' did for F1? (2:44) * Unpacking Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami (12:20) * Todd Boehly becomes the latest to move into the multi-club ownership game (18:24) * Talking MLB in London (24:05)

Tom Bassam and George Breare return for a quick roundup of the week in sports industry news.

Talking points: * Why has Michael Jordan sold the Charlotte Hornets? (2:10) * The Women's World Cup rights picture becomes clearer (8:14) * The demise and legacy of the W Series (17:50) * Chelsea and Stake.com, how did we get here? (24:29)

Tom Bassam and SportsPro technology editor Steve McCaskill have an in-depth conversation about the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund's move to control the elite tours in men's golf and how the kingdom's enhanced financial backing of its domestic soccer league could reshape the sport's ecosystem. There's also time for a few thoughts on another logistical Uefa mismanagement issue at a major event, with the recent Champions League final and the passing of a man who helped shape the competition in its modern form, Silvio Berlusconi.

Most people know what an electronic player tracking system (ETPS) is, but there is more to the technology than meets the eye. Barin Sports' director of business development, Daniel Shopov, speaks to SportsPoro technology editor, Steve McCaskill, about the different types of systems on the market, their various use cases and the business aspect of procurement.

George Breare and Tom Bassam are back together for this week's podcast, discussing all things Champions League, plus we hear from SportsPro reporter Josh Sim who was lucky enough to attend the Women's Champions League final in Eindhoven.

Talking points: * Wasn't Istanbul supposed to host the final in 2021? (2:45) * How the tournament can bring in major sponsors (4:30) * Why it's important for Uefa to get this event right (8:23) * Pepsi and creating an event around the final (10:17) * Looking back at the Women's Champions League final (14:16) * Josh dials in from Eindhoven (21:30) * Rachel Yankey on the growth of the Women's Champions League (23:27) * PepsiCo CMO Mark Kirkham on how the brand is tapping into the women's game (27:08) * How Gatorade is activating at the final (31:44) * Josh's pre-match thoughts from the Philips Stadion (33:33) * Post-match reaction and big picture thoughts on the tournament (36:47)

(Note: At around 6min Tom mistakenly mentions Istanbul Airport processes 200 million flights per year, this figure actually refers to passengers)

As the curtain falls on the 2023 IPL and Premier League seasons, George Breare is joined by features editor, Sam Carp, to explore record-breaking campaigns and the twists and turns that took place on the pitch and in the boardroom, including:

- The huge broadcast numbers on Star Sports and Jio Cinema

- The IPL’s commercial pull for major global brands

- Why the WPL launched at the perfect time

- Is the Premier League really capable of self-governance?

- Why football’s relationship with geopolitics shows no signs of slowing

In February 2021, Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney surprised the world by completing a takeover of small National League football club Wrexham AFC. Alongside Strategic Advisor, Shaun Harvey, and Executive Director, Humphrey Ker, we lift the lid on the story behind the takeover and how the club has come to embody an innovative and bold approach, including:

The impact of the Disney+ Welcome to Wrexham docuseries and the explosion of Wrexham fans in North America and globally
How Wrexham have transformed the streaming landscape of the National League
What does the future hold for Wrexham and their Hollywood superstar owners?

Part one sees Tom Bassam joined by BlackBook Motorsport writer Cian Brittle to discuss crown jewel of US motorsport, the Indy 500 to look at why the Indy 500 stands alone in terms of fan experience and commercial outlook.

Part two sees George Breare chat to Amir Mirzaee and Clayton Larcombe from Bayes Esports about what the next phase of the esports industry looks like, including:

· Why the impact of Covid-19 on the esports industry is exaggerated

· Why PAC Capital decided to lead Bayes’ recent Series A funding round

· How esports needs to adapt its commercial model to thrive

· How regional esports markets differ

This week regular hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined on the podcast by SportsPro reporter Josh Sim to discuss the major off-field narratives ahead of the 2023 WNBA campaign.
Talking points:* The expansion question (1:06) * Scripps and the media rights picture for the WNBA (10:25) * Are women's sports properties valued properly by media companies? (13:37) * Does the WNBA need a new CBA? (19:31) * The flaws with the ICC's new revenue distribution model (26:05) * The Ottawa Senators sale and what it says about the current state of the NHL (37:44)

Back in January, Jane Fernandez was named as one of SportsPro's 'Ten Influencers' for 2023. Now, with the countdown on to the 2023 Women's World Cup, the chief operating officer for the tournament in Australia and New Zealand explains how the organisers are planning to deliver what could be a landmark soccer moment.

SportsPro Podcast hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam dive into the fine print of the EFL deal which will see Sky Sports broadcast the Championship, League One, League Two and the Carabao Cup in the UK until the end of the 2028/29 season.
Talking points:* The detail of the deal (1:33) * The Saturday blackout remains and the headline changes (4:19) * The end of iFollow (8:28) * What it means for clubs in each division (16:40) * The impact on matchday attendance (21:06) * Will EFL club income get any closer to the Premier League? (22:48) * Under the radar: Newcastle's new shirt sponsor (26:12) * Under the radar: Matchroom's investment talks with CVC collapse (29:32)

Tom Bassam is joined by Sam Carp for a whiparound the week in sports industry news.

Talking points:* Record attendances in the Women's Six Nations and Women's Champions League (1:24) * Setting an example for others to follow (10:12) * Where we're at after the third round of bidders for Manchester United (14:00) * The fan influence on the takeover process (20:00) * The Hundred changing course? (24:16) * Gianni Infantino stands up for the value of the Women's World Cup (32:41)

This week SportsPro took over the Kia Ova to stage SportsPro Live 2023. George Breare, Tom Bassam, Steve McCaskill - as well as a few special guests - capture the sites and sounds of the two-day event in London.

On this special episode of the SportsPro Podcast, Tom Bassam is joined by Sabrina Ibáñez, secretary general of the FEI, who is one of the nine women in leadership roles out of 39 summer Olympic federations. Together they discuss wider representation challenges, leading a diverse organisation and addressing unconscious biases in evolving times.

Talking Points:* Female under representation at a senior level (01:40) * How do we put practical measures in place in regulatory level? (02:39) * Things the FEI is doing differently in regard to DEI compared to other federations? (05:38) * How do you try to influence other federations (09:26) * FEI initiatives in parasport (14:46) * The power of using athletes for storytelling (17:37) * Looking ahead to Paris 2024 (19:13) * LQBTQ+ issues in a gender neutral sport (20:50) * Efforts to modernise the FEI (26:34)

George Breare and Tom Bassam return for a whiparound of the latest news in sports business, taking in the Premier Legaue's gambling ban, the talks of Saudi interest in T20 cricket, as well as the latest on Dan Snyder selling the Washington Commanders. In part two our hosts try to figure out how they would fix boxing and rugby union.

The roles are reversed for this week's SportsPro Podcast as regular host George Breare is put in the interview chair by Tom Bassam for a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into putting together our flagship SportsPro Live event.

Drilling into Breare's day job as senior content manager, the conversation explores the themes that shape this year's event at the Oval in London and how SportsPro thinks about drawing up its agendas (1:10).

Then discussion turns to a couple of big industry news stories from the past week, the IPL's staggering audience figures for its opening weekend (32:00) and the growing revenues reported by Uefa for the Women's Champions League (39:03).

The tenth edition of SportsPro Live, taking place on the 25th and 26th April at London's Kia Oval, will be our biggest event to date. Book your place today with a special SportsPro Podcast discount, head to: live.sportspromedia.com/registration and use code POD20 for 20 per cent off (terms and conditions apply, not applicable to pre-existing purchases).

The Masters, arguably golf's most iconic major, will see the eyes of the sporting world turn to Augusta this week. It may be a tradition unlike any other, but does it still make sense as a business? Golf's other big events make more money and offer a more modern fan experience. George Breare and Tom Bassam explore the reasons why the Masters can afford to be stuck in its ways, while also asking what the tournamemt's future looks like.

Talking points:* What the clash with LIV Golf does for the Masters (1:52) * The Masters as a proxy in the battle (5:14) * How the business of the Masters works (7:08) * Can this traditional approach endure? (15:40) * We are up for an award! Here is how you can vote for us (18:20) * Plus, the NBA's new CBA (20:00) * Endeavor's deal for WWE (28:13) * The EFL and Sky enter exclusive rights talks (34:04)

The SportsPro Podcast is delighted to have been nominated (for the second year in a row) for a Sports Podcast Award in the sports business category. If you enjoy the show we would really appreciate it if you could give us a vote here or via www.sportspodcastgroup.com/podcast/sportspro-podcast-2/ (you will need to register before voting).

SportsPro senior staff writer Ed Dixon joins regular hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam for a special Live Event Week pod where they seek to identify the best live experience in sports. Considering both fan experience and commercial opportunity, the trio set out their criteria before trying to convince each other why their personally chosen event should come out on top:
Talking points:* The key metrics (1:16) * We are up for an award! Here is how you can vote for us (15:56) * The Super Bowl (17:00) * The Masters (24:00) * Formula One (30:53) * Wimbledon (41:12) * Influencer boxing (47:48) * The Hundred (52:44)

The SportsPro Podcast is delighted to have been nominated (for the second year in a row) for a Sports Podcast Award in the sports business category. If you enjoy the show we would really appreciate it if you could give us a vote here or via www.sportspodcastgroup.com/podcast/sportspro-podcast-2/ (you will need to register before voting).

This August in Glasgow - and across other parts of Scotland - the International Cycling Union (UCI) is holding its inaugural Cycling World Championships, where 13 individual titles will be decided in a true festival of the sport. On this week's podcast, SportsPro's Tom Bassam is joined by UCI digital transformation executive Adrien de Cheveigné and Jonny Murch, chief executive of Redtorch, to find out how they planning to ensure the event hits the mark on social media, while also discussing the role of the agency's #SportOnSocial report in shaping the strategy.

Talking points:* What is the role of the #SportOnSocial report? - (1:27) * Are there any lessons to put into practice from the report? - (5:08) * Will the report have any impact for the 2023 Cycling World Championships? - (12:08) * How do you build a social strategy for so many different disciplines? - (16:13) * The role of athletes in telling stories on social - (23:40) * Integrating partners into the strategy - (30:02) * How to nail sport for purpose messaging - (34:30)

This week SportsPro jetted off to New York for the latest OTT USA event. Hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam take you inside Citi Field to get a taste of the discussion onstage, while providing their own commentary on an insight-heavy agenda.

To celebrate International Women's Day this week's episode has been handed over to the women of SportsPro, with operations manager Milly Miller-Adams taking over as host.Talking points:* SportsPro's head of marketing, Katie Devaney, and marketing executive, Alice Evans, on why pursuing equity is important for women in the industry and their personal experiences (1:10) * Editorial assistant Elena Kouyoufa discusses being part of a male-dominated team (7:01) * Event manager Jatila Blake and project coordinator Katie Preston explain some of the challenges they've faced in the industry and the importance of allies (13:49) * Yin Khoo, production director, on being a female leader and mentor to others (24:06)

BlackBook correspondent Cian Brittle is in the hotseat this week to delve into the main talking points ahead of the 2023 Formula One season, including:

Trouble brewing between F1 and the FIA (2:10)
Are automotive heavyweights Ford, GM, and Audi returning to the paddock? (09:41)
A temperature check on F1's sustainability efforts (19:52)
Do cryptocurrency sponsorships still have a future in motorsport? (32:00)

It’s Sustainability Week at SportsPro so Tom Bassam digs into the meaning of sport for purpose with SailGP’s chief purpose officer, Fiona Morgan, before George Breare talks to the team at Ottawa Tourism to find out why the Canadian capital prioritises events that deliver both a community and commercial benefit.
Talking points:* Fiona Morgan on the role of sport for purpose (3:26) * Ottawa Tourism's approach to events with social benefits (24:54)

George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by soccer finance expert Kieran Maguire to discuss the Premier League's decision to refer Manchester CIty to an independent commission over alleged breaches of the financial rules that govern English soccer's top flight.
Talking points:* The Manchester City affair (2:02) * The Super Bowl ratings (36:58) * DAZN's US$1bn deal for NFL Game Pass (44:39) * Under the radar stories (48:30)

George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by SportsPro's resident American and community lead Chris Stone to interrogate the forever booming business of the Super Bowl. The NFL title game continues to wrack up gaudy numbers and 2022 edition looks like it is going to be no different.

Talking points:* The media outlook for this year's Super Bowl (2:53) * How has the NFL made the game so big? (7:13) * The commercial business of the Super Bowl and what's new this year (18:42) * Star power or lack thereof (26:16) * The economic impact of hosting the Super Bowl (36:18)

Regular SportsPro Podcast hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by technology editor Steve McCaskill to talk about the latest Ideas to Invest in Now list, profiling the 20 startups who made it, while also looking at the trends behind their inclusion.Talking points:* How is the list put together? (1:41) * Diving into the 2023 Ideas to Invest in (4:32) * Does the sports industry move too slowly when it comes to innovation? (10:25) * The role of in-house tech teams and incubators (15:58) * The trends that run through this year's list (21:25) * The increasing value of data and its ownership (28:40) * Looking forward to next year's Ideas to Invest In (34:15) * What are the risks for sports in over-embracing technology? (37:39)

Sport has a unique ability to trigger emotional extremes. Meet the company seeking to measure them.
SportsPro’s George Breare is joined by Pedro Almeida, co-founder and chief executive of MindProber, to explore the Portuguese company’s vision to quantify and explore our emotional response to sporting events.
From charting the company’s beginnings in a laboratory to working with some of the largest broadcasters, brands and sports properties, the conversation covers:
* The role physiological data plays in evaluating sporting events and audience engagement * How Mindprober’s ‘galvanic skin response’ technology is optimising multi-frame broadcast sports such as golf and motorsport * Why emotional response is playing an increasing role in sports sponsorship evaluation

SportsPro's George Breare is joined by Tom Bassam to hit a quick industry news wrap covering job cuts in tech sector, LIV Golf's US rights deal with the CW Network and the advances being made in influencer boxing by KSI's Misfits brand.
Then, in part two, Edmonton Events director Cindy Medynski joins the show to talk about the Canadian city is taking a new approach to event hosting.

Talking points:* Big tech, big cuts and the impact on sport (1:20) * LIV Golf arrives on US TV via the CW Network (6:45) * KSI's Misfits, DAZN and athlete influencers (12:59) * Interview: What Edmonton has to offer as an event host (18:51)

Tom Bassam is joined by Allie Dinsmore, vice president, strategy and new business development at the Professional Fighters League; Sahaj Shah, product and UX/UI designer, Areto Labs; and Charlie Sizer, global partnerships manager at DAZN - all members of the 2022/23 SportsPro NEW ERA cohort - to discuss what the year has in store for women's sport, as well as women in the industry.

Talking points:* Personal backstories (1:25) * The NEW ERA experience so far (5:44) * Things to look forward to in women's sport in 2023 (9:00) * Building the profile of female athletes through original content (15:51) * Why this could be the year that women's properties are properly valued (18:46) * How important is it to have figures like Julie Uhrman leading the way? (26:52) * Why the business of women's sport doesn't have to be the same as men's (31:20) * Equality goals for the industry in 2023 (37:21) * Personal new year's resolutions (41:46)

SportsPro's George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by PA Media chief sports reporter Jamie Gardner to reflect on Qatar 2022, before editorial director Michael Long unpacks his feature on a World Cup that has loomed large over much of his journalistic career.

Part one talking points:* View from on the ground in Doha (2:11) * Fifa control and the fairness of media scrutiny (7:16) * How successful was the tournament? (11:39) * Qatar 2022 as a template for wannabe nation builders (16:21) * Press freedom at Qatar 2022 and the social impact of the World Cup (24:34)

Part two (30:03):* How Qatar 2022 has dominated the last 12 years (31:42) * Industry sentiment on the World Cup (33:33) * Was this a line in the sand for major event hosting? (38:26)

Regular hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by features editor Sam Carp to unpick SportsPro's annual list of ten industry influencers who will shape the sporting year, while also finding time to gaze into the crystal ball to predict the major business narratives of the next 12 months.Talking points:* What does it take to make the ten influencers list? (3:00) * The role of Women's World Cup COO Jane Fernandez (5:01) * How Julie Uhrman is changing the NWSL (12:41) * Rory McIlroy... the saviour of golf? (19:42) * Is James DeLorenzo set to lead Apple into a bigger role in sports media? (28:24) * Sam Carp's predictions for sponsorship in 2023 (38:26) * Tom Bassam explains why Warner Bros Discovery is going to dominate the sports media space this year (43:55)

For the last SportsPro Podcast of the year, George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by features editor Sam Carp, technology editor Steve McCaskill and community lead Chris Stone for a festive, sports business-themed quiz.* Round one - A year in news (2:50) * Round two - SportsPro long reads (22:15) * Round three - Who said what? (42:49)

Regular SportsPro Podcast hosts George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by senior staff writer Ed Dixon for a soccer-centric episode in World Cup final week.
Talking points:* Has the World Cup been a success? * The legacy of Qatar 2022 * What is happening at the DFL and what does it mean for the Bundesliga? * How the WSL continues to surpass expectations * Under the radar stories

SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam is joined by editorial director Michael Long for a quick scan of the biggest industry news, before Simon Trewavas from RTB House joins the pod to talk about the data solutions firm's new report on the opportunities for sports brands and the fashion industry.
Talking points:* The NBA opens itself to sovereign wealth investment (1:10) * Is it the right time for the ECB to sell The Hundred? (6:12) * The wider impact of the Juventus board's mass resignation (13:27) * Should we read much into the idea of the Olympics in Qatar? (18:58) * Unpacking the 'Data in Fashion and Sports. How Brands Are Staying a Cut Above in 2022' report with Simon Trewavas from RTB House (24:46)

SportsPro’s George Breare and Tom Bassam take you inside the Melia Castilla to track the trends and conversations at the OTT Summit.
Talking points:

OTT big picture with the StreamTime Podcast

Warner Bros Discovery and Dyn Media

Unpacking onstage debate

WSL and the NBA App

OneFootball and Web 3.0

Event takeaways

SportsPro’s George Breare and Tom Bassam go in-depth on all issues and big questions coming out of the early days of the Qatar 2022 World Cup and spend a little bit of time talking about Bob Iger's return to Disney.Talking points:

◦ (2:25) - The key issues in focus in Qatar

◦ (7:46) - The Budweiser ban fallout

◦ (13:16) - Are we seeing sportswashing in action?

◦ (20:20) - What now for Fifa and Gianni Infantino?

◦ (25:49) - Will major event host now face greater scrutiny?

◦ (33:00) - The outlook for the 2026 World Cup

◦ (34:40) - Brands differing approaches to Qatar 2022

◦ (44:27) - Bob Iger back in as Disney chief executive

SportsPro’s George Breare and Steve McCaskill are joined on the latest episode of the SportsPro Podcast by Christina Wootton, vice president of global partnerships, Roblox.

Before Wootton joins the conversation, the hosts wrap up some of the big sports industry news stories of the last week. Talking points: * The collapse of FTX and the impact of the cryptocurrency struggles (0:45) * Viaplay making moves for the English Football League (EFL) story (9:28) * Has the Rugby League World Cup been a success? (13:58)

Christina Wootton interview: * How does Roblox work? (17:40) * As a metaverse, what does Roblox offer the sports industry? (22:28) * The process for partners to get involved (28:44) * Bringing live broadcasts into the platform (36:31) * What is Fifa World? (37:44) * What works in the Roblox metaverse? (43:00)

Ahmad Nassar knows a thing or two about the commercial value of elite athletes. As founding chief executive of OneTeam Partners and the former president of NFL Players Inc., Nassar has helped develop group licensing opportunities and maximise the collective marketing potential of top stars across a range of major leagues in team sports.

Now, as executive director of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), an independent player advocacy group set up by Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil in 2020, Nassar is working to create new earning opportunities for male and female tennis players internationally. Installed in August, the American also doubles as chief executive of the Winners Alliance, the PTPA’s for-profit commercial arm.

In this episode, Nassar sheds light on what the PTPA is - and also what it isn’t. On the agenda:

The creation of the PTPA (22:57)
Why tennis players need collective representation (26:05)
Providing financial security and improving working conditions for players (28:46)
The PTPA model and its place in tennis (34:25)
What the Winners Alliance hopes to achieve (39:04)
Structuring, valuing and negotiating group licensing agreements (43:12)
Making money from the PTPA (54:00)
Lessons from golf for the tennis status quo (56:56)

Prior to George’s conversation with Ahmad, SportsPro editorial director Michael Long dials in to discuss some of the big – and not-so-big - sports business stories of the week, including reports that Fenway Sports Group is looking to offload Premier League giants Liverpool (00:35),theNBA’s latest private equity venture (07:58), and news of fresh investment in pickleball (12:25).

In this special episode of the SportsPro Podcast, host George Breare is joined by Adam Fraser, chief executive of the Laureus Sport For Good Foundation, and Jessica Clancy, senior vice president of corporate social responsibility at NBCUniversal, to discuss the second edition of the Laureus Sport For Good Index.

Launched in 2021 to recognise brands making a positive social and environmental impact through sport, the Index once again shines a light on 29 companies whose work is setting the standard, bringing about meaningful progress, and ultimately changing lives.

On the agenda in this episode:

• What is the Laureus Sport for Good Index and why was it created?

• The difficulty in measuring and quantifying 'positive impact' for brands

• Why purpose-driven business is a financial as much as moral imperative

• Why the Index can prompt internal change and progress

To view the full Laureus Sport For Good Index and find out why each brand is included, click here.

George Breare and Tom Bassam visit Six Nations HQ to talk to the annual European international rugby union tournament's chief executive, Ben Morel.Talking points: * The evolution of the Autumn Nations Series (1:02) * Making the best use of CVC's investment (8:39) * The impact of the TikTok partnership (16:36) * How technology changes the commercial conversation (20:28) * The Six Nations' broadcast strategy (24:46) * Will the Autumn Nations Series go to new territories? (30:08) * The health of the club game (37:28)

George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by SportsPro technology editor Steve McCaskill, who dials in from the wrong side of the tracks in Monaco to provide an update from on the ground at Sportel.

Then, in part two, GB Snowsports chief executive Vicky Gosling and Tennis Channel editor in chief Andi Chu talk us through SportsPro’s NEW ERA gender equality programme, while also sharing some of their own experiences of the challenges facing women in the sports industry.

SportsPro's George Breare and Tom Bassam are back together for a quick hit on the latest sports industry news.

On the slate for this week's show are the new National Basketball Association (NBA) season and the English Football League's (EFL) plans to end the UK's Saturday 3pm soccer blackout with its next domestic rights deal.

Talking points: * Three big themes for the new NBA season (01:25) * The NBA's new app (03:20) * Can the NBA get US$75 billion for its next US rights deal? (06:56) * Does the expanded NBA playoff format add value (10:40) * What is the EFL is planning for its next domestic rights deal (12:40) * How could you make iFollow revenue distribution fairer? (16:45) * The other new ideas in the EFL RFP (20:36) * Is this an opportunity to reset the EFL's finances (22:06)

Who is the most marketable athlete on the planet today? What makes one athlete more marketable than another? How should the term ‘marketability’ be defined? What do brands look for when aligning with an athlete?

SportsPro has been asking itself such questions every year since it first released its annual ranking of the world’s 50 Most Marketable Athletes in 2010. The process of answering them has sparked some interesting debates and a constant reevaluation of what it means to be marketable at any given time.

In this special episode of the SportsPro Podcast, released to coincide with the 13th edition of SportsPro’s 50 Most Marketable Athletes list, our team breaks down some of the key trends and talking points to emerge from the 2022 ranking with the help of Amar Singh, senior vice president of content and communications at MKTG.

We also hear from Chris Collins, the president at NorthStar Solutions Group, whose updated data-driven methodology determined the 2022 rankings, making this year’s list the most comprehensive assessment of athlete marketability ever produced.

Geoff Allardice, chief executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC), sits down with George Breare ahead of the men’s Twenty20 World Cup.

In addition to a preview of the tournament, the conversation explores cricket’s balance between respecting tradition and pursuing innovation for growth. On the agenda is the importance of T20 for cricket to gain a foothold in key growth territories and why the US has the potential to be the sport’s third largest media market. Allardice also explores the future of the women’s game and the role Test cricket has to play.

Finally, the discussion moves towards the ICC’s transition to a direct-to-consumer strategy, with the launch of initiatives such as the ICC.tv over-the-top (OTT) platform, the launch of a new ecommerce store with Fanatics and other digital projects.

SportsPro content manager George Breare returns from a short break to helm the latest episode of the Weekly Wrap podcast.In part one, Breare is joined by SportsPro senior staff writer Ed Dixon to get the lowdown on his recent interview with Sally Horrox, World Rugby’s director of the women’s game, ahead of the imminent Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Then, recording from Visa’s European headquarters following an exclusive event co-hosted by SportsPro and Two Circles, Breare sits down with the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) Anna Shaw, Twitter’s Roisin O’Shea and Alex Teasdale of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to discuss the future of sponsorship in women's sport.

In a wide-ranging discussion, the panel reflects on some of the conversations had during the event, the advantages and disadvantages of unbundling the rights to women’s sports properties, the impact of purpose-driven marketing, and where future opportunities lie for brands.

With the story of DAZN's acquisition of Eleven breaking on 27th September, Tom Bassam and Sam Carp give their immediate reactions to the consolidation of two former challenger media brands, as well as what the deal means for the industry more broadly.

With Robert Sarver having announced he will be selling the Phoenix Suns, there is also a bit of discussion (11:06) of how we got to this point, what happens next and - perhaps most importantly - who might buy the embattled National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise.

On a more positive note, the Women's Super League (WSL) continues to go from strength to strength following a weekend of record attendances. (20:00) Bassam and Carp zoom out on the top flight of English women's soccer to ask how the league grows attendances beyond staging a handful of fixtures per season at the big stadiums.

Talk then turns to the National Football League (NFL) and its US$50 million Super Bowl half-time show deal with Apple (29:22) and there is also a bit of time left over for a couple of under the radar stories.

In the absence of George Breare, SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam is joined by senior writer Ed Dixon for a catchup on the latest sports industry news.

First up on the agenda is run through of the highlights from the recent SportsPro APAC event in Singapore, with some analysis of sessions featuring Disney Star's Sanjog Gupta, the Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive Katie Sadleir, as well as Sarah Chambers and Amy Prosser from Optus.

There's also a look at some of the streaming issues faced by the National Football League (NFL) and the decision from the owner of Patagonia to pledge the outdoor brand's profits to tackling the climate crisis.

We round off the show with the regular 'under the radar' stories and some listener questions.

George Breare dials in from SportsPro APAC in Singapore for a quick catchup on the key industry news stories of the past week, namely the report that Saudi Arabia is to fund a three-nation bid to jointly host the 2030 World Cup alongside Egypt and Greece.

News editor Tom Bassam explains some of the details of the report and weighs up its chances of success in the murky world of soccer geopolitics, while there is also time for a quick discussion on Cazoo's impending exit from the sponsorship picture in continental Europe.

Then Breare speaks to Eric Stark, co-founder and president of social content startup Slate (14:38), about the company's rise. Slate was named in SportsPro's 2020 class of 'ideas to invest in now' and won the SportsInnovation Award at this year's Ignition event in January. Stark lifts the lid on the company's origins, its funding journey and the plans for the future.

Tony Godsick, chairman of the Laver Cup tennis tournament, as well as long-time agent of Roger Federer, and event chief executive Steve Zacks join host George Breare on this special edition of the SportsPro Podcast.

Ahead of the tournament’s arrival in London on 23rd September, the trio discuss the creative vision and continued commercial development of the Laver Cup five years after its inception in 2017.

The conversation spans Federer’s influence on the tournament’s aesthetic and brand positioning, its founding commitment to format innovation, what to expect in London, and how the Laver Cup is serving a younger generation of tennis fans at a time when the sport’s following is only growing older.

George Breare and Tom Bassam are joined by San Francisco 49ers chief marketing officer ahead of the new National Football League (NFL) season (18:28).

Before that the hosts talk about the second season of English cricket’s short-format competition, The Hundred, and what DAZN’s Primera División rights deal means for Spanish women’s soccer.

Kirsten Corio, chief commercial officer at the US Tennis Association (USTA), takes some time out of her busy US Open schedule to join the podcast to discuss the Grand Slam's data-led strategy.

Before Corio dials in from New York (19:48), SportsPro's George Breare and Tom Bassam hit some of the headlines from the previous week in the sports industry. First up the latest developments from the PGA Tour's attempt to throw money at the LIV Golf problem, then some insight into what Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's TMRW Golf venture could mean for the game, before a bit of discussion of what is happening in the world of online chess.

Corio then joins the pod to lift the lid on how the USTA is approaching its first US Open at full capacity since 2019, its data-led approach to business intelligence and how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used across its operations.

The show closes out with some under-the-radar stories and a couple of listener questions.

Motorsport writer Cian Brittle brings his motorsport expertise to a special SportPro Podcast looking back at the recent BlackBook Motorsport Forum in London.

Post event reflections are interspersed with some the sounds from onstage and on the floor at BBMF, as the pod analyses some of the key themes to emerge from the Leonardo Hotel.

Talking points include Nascar’s efforts in the entertainment space, the enduring impact of Drive to Survive, the future of decentralised gaming, sustainability and what the Hamilton Commission’s report has taught us about diversity in motorsport.

There is also a bit of time to talk about sprint racing in MotoGP and a potential Saudi Olympics.

SportsPro editorial director Michael Long is on the pod this week to comb through a week of industry news headlined by the launch of the Africa Super League (ASL).

Alongside regulars George Breare and Tom Bassam, the panel discuss Fifa's role in the new competition's rollout, the ASL's vague finances and CAF governance.

Conversation then turns to the National Football League (NFL) and how its increasingly close ties with Amazon may lead to a game being played on Black Friday.

Also covered off are the plight of two brands - Cazoo and Peloton - who have major reach in the sports industry but are now having to plot a retreat.

The show then closes out with a few 'under the radar' stories and listener questions.

SportsPro senior writer Ed Dixon, who recently penned a wonderful introduction for the second season of The Hundred, joins the pod to discuss the return of the ECB's short format domestic cricket competition.

Podcast host George Breare, no stranger himself to the world of cricket, and news editor Tom Bassam also offer their thoughts on the competition, as well as its wider implications for the game.

The pod then turns its attention to a selection of some of the biggest news topics in the sports industry, including Sky's disappointing Q2, the wild state of affairs at Barcelona and the latest in the LIV Golf's attempts to shake up the sport.

The show concludes with the regular 'under the radar' section, including some discussion on Jake Paul's gambling startup.

The latest SportsPro Podcast sees regulars George Breare and Tom Bassam joined by features editor Sam Carp for a soccer-centric episode.Basking in the glory of the Lionesses winning Women's Euro 2022, discussion covers what happens next for the players, the Women's Super League (WSL) and the game at club level across Europe.

Then, with the Premier League returning this weekend, the conversation moves to the big storylines heading into the new season, the growing gap with the lower divisions, as well as what Chelsea and Newcastle can expect in their first full campaigns under new ownership.

To finish up, the trio look at some of the sports industry's under the radar stories and take some listener questions.

If you have a question you want answered on the pod, get in touch via podcast@sportspromedia.com.

Making his debut as SportsPro Podcast host, content manager George Breare is joined by news editor Tom Bassam and Nathan Homer, chief commercial officer at the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), to talk about what the 2012 Olympic Games have left behind.

Homer, who joined the LLDC in 2020, outlines the successes and shortcomings of the Olympic Park in the wake of London 2012, and shares some of the plans for what will happen in the next ten years of the venue's development.

The pod then dives into some of the under-the-radar stories from the last week of sports industry news, before taking some listener questions to close out the episode.

To mark Women’s Sports Week across SportsPro’s platforms, Eoin Connolly speaks to Annie Panter, MD of Ventures at Two Circles, about how women’s sport can maintain its commercial momentum.

She explores the most effective strategies for women's sports bodies and their partners, and explains why rights holders need to focus on events and products that work to keep driving a virtuous cycle.

She also reflects on how women’s sport has changed since she won Olympic hockey bronze at London 2012, how the progress of powerful sports like soccer will affect the sector, and what can be learned from recent success stories.

SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam and features editor Sam Carp join Eoin Connolly for another sports industry update, including a look ahead to the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

They ask what impact the track and field showpiece will have and whether the sport can evolve to find a new place in the modern media ecosystem. They also consider Nike’s influence on a hometown event, and World Athletics’ plans to rebuild an American presence ahead of LA 2028.

There is also time to preview golf’s 150th Open and reflect on a busy week for world soccer in the courts.

Jenny Mitton, the women’s sport lead at M&C Saatchi Sports and Entertainment, joins Eoin Connolly and SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam to preview Uefa Women’s Euro 2022.

They look at the expectations being set for the tournament over the next three weeks, the impact it can make in host nation England, and the commercial development of women’s soccer. Mitton also explains what is being learned about the competition’s fanbase - which combines hardcore followers and big eventers - and how brands are approaching the opportunity.

Then, they ask what will come next for the women’s game in Europe and beyond.

Quentin Thom and James Newman, co-heads of PerfORM Due Diligence, join Eoin Connolly to explain what sport needs to understand about the crypto marketplace.

They discuss the risks that sports teams and organisations should recognise before entering into crypto partnerships, especially given the complexity of companies in the sector and the speed of change. In that context, they then detail the ambitions their practice has for creating specialist operational due diligence services that facilitate smarter, more secure business in the space.

They also discuss the path towards greater regulation and why sport’s relationship with crypto differs from other industries.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam are joined by Alex Duff, author of Le Fric: Family, Power and Money – The Business of the Tour de France.

They discuss how the model of cycling’s biggest event has been shaped by the decades-long ownership of the Amaury family, consider its role as an elite global challenge and national showpiece, and ask how the outsized prominence of the Tour continues to affect the wider business of the sport.

They also look to the future of the Tour, including the Zwift-backed women’s event, data partnerships and a new Netflix series.

SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam and media and tech editor Steve McCaskill join Eoin Connolly to reflect on another week of industry news.

First, they look ahead to The Championships at Wimbledon, asking whether the removal of rankings points will really hamper the appeal of tennis’ grass-court Grand Slam and reviewing the latest tech innovations introduced at SW19 by IBM and other AELTC partners.

Then they look back on a busy week for soccer in North America, piecing together the implications of a landmark deal between Apple and MLS and confirmation of host venues for the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

In another session from SportsPro Live at London’s Kia Oval, Eoin Connolly speaks to Matthew Primack, senior vice president of international development at ecommerce and merchandising giant Fanatics.

Matthew explains how Fanatics has built partnerships with the likes of the NFL, the NBA and Formula One, where it aims to innovate and how its operations are being affected by supply chain and sustainability concerns.

They also discuss the implications of the company’s rapid growth in recent years, with widespread inward investment, the acquisition of collectibles brand Topps, and new projects in web3 and sports betting creating a digital fan platform.

Eoin Connolly is joined by SportsPro news editor Tom Bassam and features editor Sam Carp to unpack one of 2022’s biggest deals so far.

They discuss a bumper set of media rights sales for cricket’s Indian Premier League, with Disney’s Star retaining traditional TV coverage as Reliance and Paramount’s Viacom18 venture swoops in for digital rights. With over $6 billion on the board, they examine a changed picture for cricket and Indian sport.

They also reflect on the first weekend of LIV Golf and ask whether the ATP’s latest reforms will help head off a rebel threat in tennis.

Eoin Connolly is joined by SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and media and tech editor Steve McCaskill to run through another week of industry developments.

As LIV Golf tees off for its first event in St Albans, they ask what the contentious Saudi-backed series aims to bring to the sport and who it can bring along other than its opening field.

Then, as Forbes reports LeBron James to be the first active NBA player worth US$1 billion, they ask what athlete power will look like in the generation ahead, and Steve explains sport’s place in Apple’s latest software rollout.

In a session from SportsPro Live in London, Eoin Connolly talks to senior leaders from this year's Rugby League World Cup: chief executive John Dutton, social impact director Tracy Power and tournament director Dean Hardman.

They lay out a distinctive vision for the event, which will unite the men’s, women’s and wheelchair tournaments in England in October and November.

They discuss its aims to support key community initiatives, the challenges of managing such a complex commercial and logistical delivery in Covid conditions that triggered a one-year delay, and the chance for the sport to excite new and existing fans alike.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam are joined by Paris-based independent comms consultant Dan Tunna to reflect on a dramatic sporting weekend.

Dan shares an on-the-ground account of a chaotic Uefa Champions League final at the Stade de France, which was delayed by 36 minutes as fans faced dangerously packed queues, disorganisation and heavy-handed policing outside. The trio also discuss the need to reconsider how major soccer events are run as another major final comes under intense scrutiny.

There is also a quick look at a bumper Indian Premier League rights tender and the latest movements in US motorsport.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam are joined by James English, managing partner for sport at Fuse, for a commercial preview of the Uefa Champions League final.

They discuss the work going on in Paris to deliver for the competition’s sponsors, and ask whether different formats for the concluding week could add value for partners, hosts and fans.

Then they explore how the Uefa Europa League and Europa Conference League have added depth to the continental season, and consider how the Uefa Women’s Champions League final could deliver progress for the sport.

Eoin Connolly is joined by Andrew Parsons, the president of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

They discuss a year of relentless challenges for the IPC, with back-to-back Covid-era Games in Tokyo and Beijing within just a few months, and a ban for Russian and Belarusian para-athletes after the invasion of Ukraine.

They also talk about how the IPC sees its future leadership role shaping up within the wider movement, with the creation of the Para Sport platform and a new commercial strategy being developed, while Andrew shares his biggest ambitions for the second four-year term he secured in December.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam are joined by Angela Ruggiero, Olympic ice hockey champion turned Sports Innovation Lab co-founder and World Rugby exco member.

They reflect on the DFL’s Sports Innovation event in Düsseldorf, which offered a creative on-field showcase of new technologies. They also consider the possibilities of Discovery’s BT Sport joint venture and the NBA’s latest virtual reality play with Meta, and ask where Fifa’s gaming strategy goes after its EA Sports split.

There’s then time to look ahead to a decade of Rugby World Cups that will take in debut tournaments in the USA.

In what really is the final instalment of the Playbook Podcast, Matt Rogan is joined by Will Gaffney, the 17-year-old founder of the Bat for a Chance cricket charity.

Will discusses how and why he decided to start the charity and reflects on his experiences of pitching the idea to senior chief executives while balancing the running of the organisation with the daily rigours of school life.

The pair also consider how the next generation is bringing fresh perspectives to the sports industry, why younger people are more likely take risks and what the leaders of tomorrow look like.

Sportico’s Eben Novy-Williams returns to give Eoin Connolly an American perspective on the latest sports business developments.

They discuss what Todd Boehly’s US track record – especially his ownership of MLB’s LA Dodgers – suggests about his future as owner of Premier League club Chelsea. Elsewhere in soccer, they look at Uefa’s Champions League reforms and EA Sports’ split from Fifa after three hugely successful decades.

Across the Atlantic, there’s a review of Formula One’s glitzy Miami Grand Prix debut, the WNBA’s prospects are sized up as its season starts, and there’s an update on the sale of the NFL’s Denver Broncos.

As SportsPro says goodbye to its print magazine after 117 issues, Eoin Connolly is joined by three other former editors – SportsPro editorial director Michael Long and Leaders’ James Emmett and David Cushnan – for a very special podcast.

They reflect on how the magazine came to reflect and adapt to a changing sports industry across its 14-year lifespan, finding new ways to tell stories and meet the needs of its community of readers.

They also share some favourite features and moments, personal memories of how each edition was brought to life, and thoughts on the appeal of print publications.

Eoin Connolly reviews another week of industry news with SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and senior staff writer Ed Dixon.

Tom unpacks more developments in the Chelsea ownership saga, with Todd Boehly’s consortium in place as the preferred bidder despite late interest from Ineos owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Then Ed reflects on a historic night in New York, where Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano became the first female boxers to sell out Madison Square Garden.

Finally, GreenPark Sports chief strategy officer Tony Grillo lays out a vision for a mobile fan metaverse for leagues like the NBA and La Liga.

In this session from SportsPro Live Matt Rogan chats to three leading chief executives in international sport for a candid look at the realities, challenges and opportunities of leadership in 2022.

In what is the penultimate episode of the Playbook Podcast, Rogan is joined by Six Nations Rugby’s Ben Morel, Victoria Gosling of GB Snowsport and Surrey County Cricket Club’s Steve Elworthy to discuss areas ranging from finance and governance to broadening diversity and inclusion.

This session was timed to celebrate the launch of Rogan's SportsPro CEO Playbook 2022, a rich source of pragmatic advice for all those leading sports organisations.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam are joined by a series of guests at SportsPro Live 2022, an in-person return for the flagship conference.

Event host Kait Borsay and SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham explore inclusivity and representation in the industry and the growth of women’s sports. SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan and GB Snowsport CEO Vicky Gosling lay out the challenges facing businesses in 2022.

Sam Shave, co-managing director of sustainability consultancy thinkBeyond, reflects on green initiatives trialled at the Kia Oval, and Elena Razzano explains how the European Space Agency’s activities could help develop new sports innovations.

In this special excerpt from the StreamTime Podcast, SportsPro CEO Nick Meacham talks to Jonathan Licht, managing director of UK pay-TV powerhouse Sky Sports.

Jonathan reflects on the development of the Sky Sports offering through an era of rapid change in delivery and the rights market, explaining what the company has learned about sports broadcasting and audiences across three decades.

He also reveals how the growth and diversification of the Sky group and platform has influenced its thinking about its consumer positioning, as well relationships with sports like the Premier League and Formula One and its own media competitors.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam run through another week of industry news, and hear from DFL executive vice president of AV rights Steffen Merkel about the latest media developments in German soccer’s Bundesliga.

With the endgame approaching in the contest to take over world soccer champions Chelsea, Tom and Eoin discuss a diverse range of team investment stories, from Serie A’s AC Milan to the NFL’s Denver Broncos and the NHL’s Seattle Kraken.

Then Stefan explains how 5G, AI and other technologies have built out the Bundesliga’s storytelling and fan engagement capabilities.

In this episode of the Playbook Podcast, host Matt Rogan sits down with a business leader whose organisation has successfully ridden the storm of the pandemic.

Heatley Tector is the former owner of Move Media and was in the middle of establishing HBV Studios, a Dublin-based audiovisual production company, as the health crisis started to unfold.

An experienced TV and radio presenter, Tector has a longstanding connection with sport. He talks to Rogan about the challenges of managing the new business during a pandemic and offers his reflections and learnings as the company emerges on the other side.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam talk to Kieran Maguire, co-host of the Price of Football podcast, and go over some of the week’s developments in the business of soccer.

They discuss the launch of the Fifa+ direct-to-consumer digital platform – a new free service hosting original content and up to 40,000 live games a season – and ask what it means for the global governing body’s media and commercial strategy.

There’s also time to reflect on Uefa’s revamped financial regulations for clubs, and go under the radar with the crypto-powered WAGMI United takeover of fourth-tier English side Crawley Town.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam are joined by Sportico’s Emily Caron to reflect on a busy spell of US sport.

Emily reviews the return of college basketball’s March Madness, and explains the implications of an expanding sports betting market and opportunities created by new NCAA name, image and likeness (NIL) rights rules for student-athletes.

There’s also time to discuss a landmark week for sport in Las Vegas, with Formula One confirming a Grand Prix and Oak View Group planning a US$3 bllion campus, as well as women’s sports stories on both sides of the Atlantic and beyond.

In this special edition of the Playbook Podcast, regular host Matt Rogan chats to SportsPro editorial director Michael Long about the release of the CEO Playbook 2022, a free and interactive how-to guide for business leaders in sport.

Rogan reflects on why he teamed up with SportsPro to launch the Playbook in March 2020, a time when the sports industry was reeling from the impact of the Covid pandemic amid a prevailing sense of shock and uncertainty. Additionally, he picks out his personal highlights and takeaways from more than 24 hours of conversations recorded since the Playbook Podcast debuted a little over 12 months ago.

There’s also a look ahead to Rogan’s forthcoming in-person session at SportsPro Live, where three top executives - Surrey County Cricket Club's Steve Elworthy, Vicky Gosling of British Ski & Snowboard and Six Nations Rugby’s Ben Morel - will be on hand to share their views on the major challenges and changes impacting the role of the CEO in 2022.

Eoin Connolly is joined by SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and media and tech editor Steve McCaskill to review another week of industry news.

Steve reviews his trip to the season-ending SailGP event in San Francisco, explaining the series’ sustainability incentives and team ownership experiment with a blockchain-enabled decentralised autonomous organisation (DAO).

Then the trio discuss a US$1.4 billion stadium deal for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, involving up to US$850 million in taxpayer funding, and compare it with European projects. There’s also time for a quick take on scripted sports content, EA Sports and Fifa, and sport climbing’s Discovery deal.

Eoin Connolly talks to Peter Hutton, director of sport at social media giant Meta, about the company’s relationship with sport and the future of live experiences in the metaverse.

They discuss how Meta approaches its partnerships in sport and the role played across each of its platforms, from Facebook and Instagram to the messaging service WhatsApp, and the prospects for greater adoption of Oculus virtual reality products.

Hutton also shares how his understanding of sports storytelling has evolved in his time at Meta and his media career at companies like Sky and Discovery-owned Eurosport.

The Athletic football news reporter Matt Slater returns to join Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and cover a busy week in the soccer business.

As the Raine Group receives plenty of bids for Chelsea, discussion centres on an accelerated sales process at Stamford Bridge and what lies ahead for the English soccer giants, as well as asking what influence the prospective new owners could have on the wider game.

They also reflect on a Deloitte Money League table that has Manchester City at the top for the first time and tells a story of the Premier League’s financial dominance.

For this episode of the Playbook Podcast, SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan is joined by Allistair McCaw, a leading consultant and advisor on maximising human performance, team culture and leadership.

The author of multiple best-selling books and a five-time duathlon world championship competitor, McCaw has spent more than 25 years working with Olympic gold medalists, Grand Slam champions and Fortune 500 companies, as well as NCAA colleges and professional sports teams.

Having spent recent weeks exploring the many areas on a chief executive’s to-do list, this episode focuses on the specific skills required to lead an organisation. The conversation sees the pair discuss ways in which you can develop and look after yourself as a leader, and they also share some actionable insights to apply to your own time.

SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and media and technology editor Steve McCaskill join Eoin Connolly to review another week of stories and trends from around the sports industry.

Steve recaps key talking points at the SportsPro OTT Summit USA, from the big streaming picture at Turner Sports and ESPN to a widespread interest in betting and the burgeoning commercial appeal of women’s sports media.

Then the trio pore over Apple’s deal with Major League Baseball, asking how the tech giant’s sports strategy could play out, and look at under-the radar news including the latest on the Premier League’s NFT rights.

On the eve of a new Formula One season, Eoin Connolly talks to Oracle chief marketing officer Ariel Kelman and Christian Horner, team principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing.

They discuss how Oracle’s analytics and cloud solutions helped power Max Verstappen to an unforgettable first world driver’s title in 2021, how the partnership is expanding this year, and why machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies are playing an ever bigger role in racing, development and fan engagement.

Ariel also explains how sports partnerships showcase Oracle’s positioning, and Christian talks about getting the team ready for another challenging campaign.

Eoin Connolly and SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam return to reflect on another busy week of industry developments.

Sports bodies cover more difficult ground in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with the Premier League reviewing its media rights options and gymnastics up in arms over an ugly podium protest from Ivan Kuliak.

Then the conversation turns to baseball, as MLB drifts deeper into a season-delaying lockout. There is a discussion about supporting women in the sports business, and time for two stories going under the radar: a new phase for Brand Beckham, and another stab at soccer’s Super League.

Many sports organisations are on the journey from being administrators or event businesses to media enterprises, which creates a host of knock-on impacts for acquiring and nurturing talent.

For the latest Playbook Podcast, Matt Rogan is joined by HR expert and strategic advisor Charlotte Hignett for a broad discussion on creating optimal workplace cultures.

Hignett, who was people director EY Lane4 for 12 years, explains how businesses can best secure the right personnel and then ensure they develop in their roles. The conversation also covers retaining key staff, organisational design, the skills required for board-level HR leaders and managing generational tensions.

Associated Press global sports correspondent Rob Harris and Professor Simon Chadwick, global professor of sport at Emlyon Business School, join Eoin Connolly to reflect on sport’s reaction to Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.

They discuss the sanctions meted out so far, including bans for Russian teams from international and continental club soccer, and what lies ahead for federations looking to unravel close relationships with Vladimir Putin’s regime. They also talk about the complexity of withdrawing oligarch investment, as Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich considers his options, and ask whether global sports structures need to be rebuilt to hold off autocratic influence.

And a favour to ask - the SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Eoin Connolly is joined by Sky Sports director of football Gary Hughes and Tony Stevens, head of public and community relations at Tottenham Hotspur, to discuss the Game Zero project and sustainability beyond campaigns.

They explain what went into putting on September’s net zero carbon fixture between Spurs and Chelsea and how it was intended to create a public forum on climate change. They also reveal what comes next for their respective organisations in broadcasting and events, and how everything from purchasing to policy to partnerships will be affected by the need to pursue a greener future.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and industry consultant Giles Morgan join Eoin Connolly to review another week of compelling sports business news.

They reflect on a potentially decisive blow for the backers of a Saudi-funded breakaway golf series (01:47), and the inflammatory comments of Phil Mickelson. Then they look at the latest money movements in rugby union (18:00) as Silver Lake completes its New Zealand deal and South Africa are linked with a move to the Six Nations Championship.

There’s also time for reports of a bidding race for the Premier League NFT licence (34:40) and a few stories drifting under the radar (45:55).

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Discussing race used to be something that sports organisations avoided at all costs but thankfully in recent years things have moved on a little, even if the conversation is far from finished.

For the latest Playbook Podcast, Matt Rogan welcomes Sonny Peart, co-founder of Black Trail Runners, on to the show to look at the relationship between sport and race.

Peart explains how his charity took a data-informed approach to responsibly demonstrate the problem and quickly break down any bias in the running community - while explaining how this method can be applied more broadly.

The conversation also covers why it is important to avoid the ‘low cost and easy’ approach to creating awareness around implicit and explicit racial prejudice in the sports industry - and how to prioritise action and impact to create genuine change.

Finally, Peart outlines how senior leaders can champion change by educating themselves and others, placing critical emphasis on the importance of business leaders taking personal accountability for making this happen.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

The latest SportsPro Podcast sees Eoin Connolly joined by digital editor Tom Bassam and deputy editor Sam Carp to roundup of some of the big stories in the sports industry over the last week.

After a catch up on some of the headlines coming out of the Super Bowl, including some gaudy numbers to complete a bounce-back year for the National Football League (NFL), discussion moves to reports regarding the success of the Premier League's overseas broadcast rights sales operation.

The episode then dives into the narratives coming out of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, including the troubling doping revelations around Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva. Then Bassam and Carp pick out a couple of 'under-the-radar' stories from the last seven days they think are worthy of a bit more attention.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Alan Gilpin, chief executive of World Rugby, tells Eoin Connolly about the changing responsibilities of the global governing body.

They run through the latest on discussions with commercial investors and the role venture capital and private equity firms might play in the growth of the game. They also talk about vital consultations on player safety and welfare, as well as the prospects for women’s rugby ahead of this year’s World Cup.

And Alan lays out the far-reaching Environmental Sustainability Plan 2030, which aims to dramatically cut World Rugby’s carbon emissions and build better choices into all of its activities.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

As SoFi Stadium gets ready for Super Bowl LVI, Eoin Connolly is joined by Sportico sports business reporter Eben Novy-Williams and CNBC’s Jabari Young to run through the big stories in a busy period for the NFL.

They look at the themes surrounding the big game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals, then cover topics ranging from former Miami Dolphins’ head coach Brian Flores’ potentially incendiary class action lawsuit on racial discrimination, to the mooted sale of the Denver Broncos, the league’s regional strategy, the Washington Commanders rebrand and the retirement of Tom Brady.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

The latest episode of the Playbook Podcast sees host Matt Rogan delve into an area that established businesses confront almost daily – managing change.

To take on the task, Rogan chats to Alexandra Willis, communications and marketing director for the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC). The Wimbledon tennis Grand Slam has always embraced change and Willis lifts the lid on the process for managing this. The conversation covers internal communication, as well as putting in systems to maximise co-creation, plus how to actively and intentionally enable people to contribute.

Rogan and Willis also explore how the different elements of an organisation can be structured to embrace change - both formally and informally – as well as ensuring you have the right people in place to cope during periods of transition.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Eoin Connolly is joined by SportsPro senior staff writer Ed Dixon and Steve Martin, global CEO at M&C Saatchi Sport and Entertainment, to preview a contentious Winter Olympics in Beijing.

They discuss how Covid complications and allegations of human rights abuses against Uighur people in Xinjiang have dominated an uneasy build-up to the Games, and consider how the International Olympic Committee, its sponsors and broadcasters will move forward.

Then, China Sports Insider founder Mark Dreyer returns to give a perspective from the ground in Beijing, and look at the future of winter sports and the rest of the industry there.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

In a session from SportsPro’s inaugural Ignition event, Eoin Connolly talks to George Pyne, founder and chief executive of sports and entertainment investment fund Bruin Capital.

George explains where Bruin identifies opportunities, its partnerships with scale-up companies like Deltatre, Two Circles, Oddschecker and TGI Sport, and how that compares with its activities in the startup space. He also lays out some of the key growth trends in sports technology, shares his thoughts on the prospects of NFTs and metaverse technologies, and discusses how the industry has changed since he moved on from IMG to set up Bruin Capital in 2015.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

SportsPro media and technology editor Steve McCaskill talks to Eoin Connolly about the latest developments in the sports tech startup and investment space.

They reflect on SportsPro’s 2022 list of the 20 sports tech ideas to invest in now, teasing out key trends from personalisation to digital betting and networks in grassroots sport and college endorsements. They also consider the perspectives shared on an investor round-table, asking where value is being sought and whether excitement about the metaverse and NFTs is premature.

Steve then talks to the co-founder of one of the companies on the list, RespoVision’s Pawel Osterreicher.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

The latest episode of the Playbook Podcast sees host Matt Rogan seeking how to shape and influence the cultural side of an organisation.Matt is joined by Tony Simpson, partner at Oliver Wyman, to decipher high-performance cultures and to find out if any business really wants one. The pair also discuss how to create drive and energy in your business in a candid and wide-ranging conversation.

Tony Simpson has held a variety of leadership roles in sport and media businesses in both Europe and the Middle East advising corporations and governments on business transformation, corporate structure and executive alignment strategy.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Eoin Connolly gets a look inside soccer’s transfer market with Financial Times sports business correspondent Sam Agini; Kieran Maguire, author of The Price of Football and co-host of the podcast of the same name; and Daniel Geey, partner in the sports group at Sheridans law firm and author of Done Deal.

They explain what must happen and who needs to be involved for a player transfer to take place, reflect on how deals are valued and the financial instruments that pay for them, and consider how the market affects clubs’ behaviour and what reforms could improve the state of play.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Eoin Connolly talks to organisational psychologist John Amaechi, founder of APS Intelligence and author of bestselling book The Promises of Giants.

They discuss how change happens at a personal and group level, how cultural expectations are set and how leaders can guide teams through uncertainty to progress. They also talk about the impact of societal change, the significance of role models and what a commitment to anti-racism really means.

A former NBA player, John argues why the sports industry needs to be more honest about its influence and how it can do better with the potential at its disposal.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

Amid a build-up dominated by the Novak Djokovic vaccine saga, Press Association tennis correspondent Eleanor Crooks joins Eoin Connolly to preview the Australian Open.

They discuss how the men’s world number one’s Covid stance will affect his standing in the game, how the episode has been received by other players and fans, and the implications for the tennis authorities and other sports bodies in creating vaccination policy.

They also cover broader themes in the business of tennis, from competition in the calendar to how the WTA will cover the fallout from the alleged 2021 disappearance of Chinese star Peng Shuai.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

The latest episode of the Playbook Podcast sees host Matt Rogan seek to challenge the assumption that financial management in business is a formulaic skill.

In a bid to prove that financial management is not just simply having the numbers in the right place on a spreadsheet, Rogan talks to two partners at EY in Anna Faelton and Eva Garcia de la Fuente about their work at the global services firm, as well as some of the challenges outside of the sport-space and the applicable lesson in dealing with them

for those within it.

As the conversation moves on Anna Faelton and Eva Garcia de la Fuente also lift the lid on how to approach translating a company's finances into a coherent strategy and then executing on that plan.

And more good news! The SportsPro Podcast has been nominated for a Sports Podcast Award. If you like what you hear, please vote for us in the Best Sports Business Podcast category here. Please note that you will have to register first.

SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and senior staff writer Ed Dixon join Eoin Connolly as the podcast loosens up after the festive break with a preview of 2022.

There are predictions around athlete activism, brand scrutiny and technological change ahead of big events like the Beijing 2022 Olympics and the Fifa World Cup in Qatar.

Then come reflections on SportsPro’s ten influencers for 2022, whose challenges range from leading the conversation on human rights to managing cryptocurrency’s reputation, taking women’s soccer to the next level, bringing a media giant to life and finding new purpose for the Commonwealth Games movement.

In the final podcast of 2021, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly has a reflective chat with editorial director Michael Long.

Mike picks out some of the stories he thinks have defined the year gone by, from the Olympic movement’s challenges to private investment, the integration of technology and the rise and rise of women’s sport.

He also lays out some of the ways in which the editorial project has adapted not just to the Covid crisis but a longer-term evolution in the sports industry and how media companies’ relationships with their audiences have changed as well.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly turns quizmaster for a festive reflection on some of 2021’s defining trends.

Two teams – SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam and senior staff writer Ed Dixon; SportsPro media and tech editor Steve McCaskill and Charlie Beall, VP of digital strategy and ventures at Seven League, the digital sports consultancy within IMG’s Media & Events division – battle to a dramatic and by no means contentious finish.

They cover soccer’s European Super League debacle and its fallout, NFTs and sport’s metaverse dreams, major events and geopolitics, media rights adjustments and the continued rise of the athlete voice.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Louise Johnson, chief executive at sports marketing agency Fuse, about business planning going into 2022.

They discuss how Louise juggles daily and long-term planning in an organisation with 100 staff in the UK and another 250 around the world. Louise also explains how she balances the needs of clients – including PepsiCo, McDonald’s, Nissan, and Carlsberg – with those of internal teams and Fuse’s parent, Omnicom. And they look at how best to assess annual targets, growth and resources, and future changes and obligations, in a testing period for the industry.

As the Formula One title race nears an incredible finish, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by the Black Book of Motorsport’s Peter Jones and Georgina Yeomans to review the 2021 season.

They discuss how competitive racing and drivers like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have taken the championship’s profile to new heights. They also cover the influence of Netflix show Drive to Survive, the evolution of F1’s commercial platform, and what a more sustainable calendar might look like.

Meanwhile, Georgina talks to Formula E chief executive Jamie Reigle ahead of a pivotal campaign in the all-electric series.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Jean-Baptiste Alliot, co-founder of consulting agency LaSource, to make sense of 2021’s biggest tech trends and their lasting implications for the sports industry.

Jean-Baptiste explains how remote workflows and experiences will absorb the return of in-person activities, why it is crucial to think more deeply about the applications of cryptocurrencies and NFTs, and what the metaverse really means for sport as the world prepares for the rise of Web3.

He also looks ahead to 2022 and the launch of Ignition, a new tech event and showcase platform from SportsPro.

As tennis star Peng Shuai’s generates headlines worldwide, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by China Sports Insider’s Mark Dreyer and Professor Simon Chadwick, global professor of sport at Emlyon Business School.

They discuss local reaction to Peng Shuai’s sexual assault allegations against former vice premier Zhang Goali and consider the WTA’s response. With a US-led diplomatic boycott of Beijing 2022 possible, they ask whether sport’s relationship with China is changing.

Then SportsPro staff writer Rory Jones talks to Danish Football Union (DBU) chief executive Jakob Jensen about its promotional boycott of the Qatar 2022 Fifa World Cup.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Emma Barraclough, product owner at Blue Fuel.

Emma leads elite sports nutrition company Blue Fuel, launched in 2020 within Chelsea Digital Ventures - a ‘digital-first, consumer product business spun out from Chelsea Football Club.’

Rather than narrowing the conversation to a single area, this conversation covers the expanse of responsibilities undertaken by a business leader - in particular ones in a fast growth sector.

From launching during a pandemic to scaling both a B2B and B2C business simultaneously, this is a fascinating look inside a fast growth business and a really candid reflection on the highs and lows of leading and juggling divergent priorities.

With a racism scandal rocking English cricket, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Chris Grant, an independent Sport England board member and expert in change management, to ask how organisations can respond properly to reports of discrimination and protect people from abuse.

Chris outlines the structural reforms sports bodies and businesses should embrace and explains why an honest dialogue is vital to the industry’s future, culturally and commercially.

Meanwhile, SportsPro staff writer Rory Jones dials in from the Smart Cities and Sport Summit in Copenhagen to relay the key trends in event hosting and urban development.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Tom Beahon, chief executive of fast-emerging sportswear brand Castore.

They discuss Castore’s growth from a premium-focused startup to a company serving the likes of Rangers, McLaren, Newcastle United and the England cricket team and consider the challenges and scrutiny that come with meeting fans’ needs in those sports. Tom also talks about how he and co-founder brother Phil have adapted to investment from backers such as British retail entrepreneurs Mohsin and Zuber Issa, the influence of early partner Sir Andy Murray and finding a sustainable route to international expansion.

To bring the SportsPro OTT Summit to a close at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly gathers a panel of expert guests to tackle some big questions and preconceptions in digital sports media.

Dan Porter, CEO of youth-focused sports media company Overtime, Ampere Analysis consumer lead Minal Modha, Albachiara’s Roger Mitchell and Anthony Arena, chief executive of videogame-styled sports broadcast platform Aura, take on the real significance of social media audiences, the viability of subscription-led streaming services and whether new channels can survive without premium rights.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Adam Fraser, chief executive of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

Adam talks about how to put purpose and social impact at the centre of a sports business, explaining how Laureus works through projects around the world and also laying guiding principles for any organisation.

He also reflects on his transition to a CEO role, exercising global leadership through the limitations of the pandemic, and where a generational shift will take the cause of sport for good in the future.

As the COP 26 Summit draws to a close, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to commercial director Paul Guest, freshly returned from the Sport@COP event in Glasgow.

They discuss whether sports bodies can move beyond pledges to lasting action on climate change, prioritising a sustainability agenda and the industry’s storytelling power and networked influence as a buyer. They also talk about holistic responses to the threat of extreme weather and Paul draws on some brand lessons from the Laureus Sport for Good Index, which launched this week.

To coincide with the launch of the Laureus Sport for Good Index, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Laureus managing director Ned Wills and Baroness Grey-Thompson, the decorated Paralympian who is now a crossbench member of the UK’s House of Lords and a leading voice in using sport for positive social change.

They discuss the purpose of the Index project and its benchmarking potential, as well as the wider value of sports organisations as agents of tangible progress. They also take on the practicalities of working with partners and public authorities in making a meaningful, lasting difference.

For SportsPro’s Women’s Sport Week, editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by The Space Between co-founder Lisa Parfitt and Sue Anstiss, a trustee at the Women's Sport Trust and author of Game On: The Unstoppable Rise of Women’s Sport.

They consider recent research about the visibility and fanbase of women’s sport, and what that could mean for the models powering events like The Hundred, the Women’s Super League and the Uefa Women’s Champions League.

Then editorial director Michael Long discusses storytelling in women’s sport with Jessica Robertson, chief content officer at Togethxr, a media and commerce company co-founded by Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel and Sue Bird.

As COP26 arrives, SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to SOAS’s Dr Tom Tanner centre director and programme director at the Centre for Development, Environment and Policy about how sports bodies can respond to the climate emergency.

Dr Tanner helps to define some of the central challenges facing sport and how concepts like ‘resilience’ will give structure to the fightback. He also discusses which sports are making progress and which need to take their response more seriously, how major events and sports seasons could change, and the tangible steps organisations can make that have a real, sustainable impact.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly checks in on the US sports industry with Sportico sports business reporter Eben Novy-Williams and seasoned soccer journalist Grant Wahl.

Eben explains how supply chain issues are preparing to wreak havoc for sports teams, examines the latest controversy in the NFL and provides an update on the Kyrie Irving Covid vaccination row.

Then Grant looks at the fallout from the historic abuse scandal in the NWSL, assesses the mood of the sport in North America in 2026, and considers what Ted Lasso might mean for the Premier League’s US media rights prospects.

For a special edition of the SportsPro Podcast's Big Interview series we bring you one of the highlights from our new weekly StreamTime Podcast featuring Phil Lynch, Manchester United’s media chief executive.

In a wide-ranging conversation with SportsPro managing director Nick Meacham, Lynch talks about his work overseeing content and distribution for one of the biggest soccer clubs in the world.

Lynch details his journey from the sunny beaches of California to the cloudier skies of Manchester to lead the transformation of United's media and digital businesses. This conversation covers how the Premier League giants work with their players, the impact of ‘the Ronaldo effect’ on social and United’s strategy to build their audience at scale whilst pushing fans towards their own platforms.

The newly-launched weekly StreamTime Podcast is released every Wednesday, with profiling the people, businesses and technologies driving the sports streaming revolution.

The podcast is set to become the go-to place for sports leaders and broadcast professionals seeking ideas, insights, and inspiration in these times of rapid transformation. Find StreamTime on your favourite podcast platform and make sure to follow or subscribe so you don't miss out on the latest episode.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Beth Barrett-Wild, head of The Hundred women’s competition and female engagement at the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), about engineering a female sports event to deliver an instant impact.

They talk about the decisions that helped shape the women’s edition of this summer’s much-discussed short-format competition, how they built a platform that leading female cricketers could share with the men and how the ECB hopes to deliver more young fans to the women’s game in years ahead. They also look at where the lessons of the Hundred’s first season can be applied in other sports, while Beth reflects on her career to date and considers the qualities that can inform more inclusive leadership.

As the 2021 edition of SportsPro 50 Most Marketable Properties list goes live, editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Adam Mitchell, chief executive of data partner and provider SponsorPulse.

They dive into some of the most significant case studies in the list, discovering what the data has to say about the Fifa World Cup and Olympic Games to WWE and League of Legends. They also tease out some of the longer-term trends that are emerging, from the rising forces of women’s sport to the globalising appeal of cricket, while Adam explains the methodology and what those working in the sports industry can learn from the project’s findings.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Press Association chief sports reporter Jamie Gardner and Professor Simon Chadwick, global professor of sport at Emlyon Business School, to unpack the takeover of Premier League soccer team Newcastle United by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia.

They assess the response in Newcastle and across the English game, and consider some of the questions that have faced the Premier League since the deal went through, from the human rights record of the Saudi state to the reaction of other clubs. They also look into some of the motivations of the PIF and its partners in pursuing the deal, considering how Newcastle came to be identified as a target and how the acquisition fits into a wider sports investment strategy, and ask what comes next.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly heads to London’s West End to talk to Brett Gosper, head of Europe and the UK at the National Football League (NFL).

As the NFL stages two International Series games at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Gosper explains how the league is rebounding from a Covid-enforced break in the British capital, how it is taking on markets like Mexico and Germany, and the implications of a rule change allowing individual teams to market themselves overseas.

He also reflects on his opening months in the job after arriving from World Rugby, what lessons he is applying from leading a governing body and his previous experience in agencies, and how sports like rugby, soccer and American football can collaborate on player safety and the risk of long-term brain injuries.

As in-person conferences resume in pockets of the sports industry, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly checks in with staff writer Rory Jones, on the ground this week at Sportel in Monaco.

Rory shares his impressions from the influential sports media and tech event, sizing up the priorities of delegates and understanding how the experience has been adapted with Covid protocols. He also talks through the key themes that have been animating the sports media community this year, and looks ahead to new developments in how Sportel is delivered.

Then former Liverpool FC chief executive Peter Moore, now the senior vice president and general manager of sports and live entertainment at 3D engine giant Unity Technologies, gives an insight into sport’s future in the metaverse – the shared virtual spaces that will evolve from the internet. He explains how Unity’s Metacast will create unique platforms for sport, and how best to understand the changes that are coming next.

Click here for a brief glimpse of the Metacast technology in action.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Nick Meacham, managing director at SportsPro.

In this episode Matt learns about SportsPro’s journey over the last two years, navigating international expansion, transitioning further into the digital space and managing through the pandemic - all while creating confidence in the parent company.

SportsPro operates across many of the spaces that impact our world: OTT, private equity and talent - things that resonate with all of us. With that in mind, this is an advertorial-free, candid wander exploring what is really going on in our sector at the moment and what impact that is having on SportsPro.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by two guests from the award-winning Ear To The Ground agency, chief executive Richard Adelsberg and chief innovation officer Owen Laverty.

As EA Sports prepares to release the latest edition of its all-conquering FIFA videogame series, they discuss how that title and others like it have created communal spaces for fans, and what brands need to understand if they are going to add value. They also talk about the role of music and influencers, the importance of embracing play and participation, and the trends that are now shaping digital communities.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Christian and Damien Devaux, the co-founders of World Chase Tag, about the realities of launching a new sport in the 21st century.

The brothers reflect on WCT’s brief journey from the back garden to a burgeoning global series, refining the rules and creating a global network of athletes, enthusiasts and promotional partners. They also explain how they have been working out their commercial strategy, from digital content to relationships with broadcasters like ESPN and Channel 4, the governance and business models they are looking to, and what they are learning about how to get fans invested in a sport.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and Matt Slater, football news reporter at The Athletic, discuss the push to stage the Fifa World Cup every two years instead of four.They look at what is driving soccer’s global governing body to pursue such radical change, who is behind the move politically and financially, and what it says about the battle for control of time and talent. They also ask what happens next and consider where it might be possible to find common ground in the debate over soccer’s international calendar.

Then, Videoflow co-founder and chief executive Jan Umansky explains how the platform is giving greater control and new monetisation opportunities to content creators, and explores some of the implications of decentralised, direct-to-fan networks online.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Dan Roan, the sports editor at BBC News.

They discuss Dan’s path to one of the most visible roles in British sports media and the unpredictable nature of following developing stories. Dan also reflects on how the growth of the industry has brought sports news closer to hard news in the past two decades, how the emergence of digital media and podcasts has created a wealth of storytelling opportunities, and the implications of these changes for senior leaders in sport.

As SportsPro launches its list of the world’s 50 Most Marketable Brands in 2021, editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Scott Tilton, co-founder and chief executive of data partner Hookit, to explore some of the key themes.

Tilton explains the methodology behind the list and lays out its value for the sports industry. He also considers why Nike and Adidas have been able to make such an impact, looks at the emergence of Dream 11 and how sponsors in different sectors are performing, and identifies the longer-term trends and lessons that brands should be acting upon.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and managing director Nick Meacham dip into a couple of the week’s big media stories.

They discuss Amazon’s last-minute deal in the UK with free-to-air Channel 4 for the US Open final between Emma Raducanu and Leylah Fernandez, and ask whether to expect more opportunistic agreements and non-exclusive partnerships in the future. They also explore former ESPN and DAZN boss John Skipper’s latest venture, original content business Meadowlark Media.

Then (36.37) Nathan Saunders, product manager for DRM solutions at Verimatrix, looks back on the company’s projects securing live streams and workflows during Uefa Euro 2020, and explains what to expect as remote and cloud-based production becomes the norm.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Ali Krieger, soccer player for the NWSL’s Orlando Pride who has been capped 108 times by the US women’s national team.

They discuss how Ali – who was seventh on SportsPro’s list of the world’s most marketable athletes in 2021 – has gone about nurturing her public and commercial profile, both individually and with wife and teammate Ashlyn Harris, and about the freedom and authentic fan connections that can come with living your true self.

They also cover how life in the women’s game has changed and continues to change, and how actions like the US women’s national team’s campaign for equal pay will leave a better environment behind for those players who follow.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Tom Huggins, co-founder and chief operating officer at Greenroom Digital, and Sven Gloor, senior manager of global brand partnerships for HSBC, to talk about how digital content and data have changed best practice in sponsorship.

They discuss how HSBC assesses the value and impact of its sponsorship portfolio, from golf to Wimbledon tennis to British Cycling and beyond, and how performance measurements are used to deliver on a range of internal and external outcomes. They also talk about how Greenroom helps brands and rights holders to identify the right data metrics that make partnerships more effective, how rights holders can rethink their assets to better appeal to sponsors, and how sport and digital marketing are helping HSBC through intense competition for younger consumers.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro's editor at large, Eoin Connolly, and Frank Gregory, social intelligence practice lead at 50 Most Marketable analysis partner NorthStar Solutions Group take you through some of the most prominent themes in this year's list.

In this special episode of the Playbook Podcast, Two Circles co-founders Gareth Balch and Matt Rogan reflect on the first ten years of the business.

The duo share some of the lessons from building a differentiated offer right from the start, to developing a performance culture in the team, while prioritising client retention and pushing on with international growth. The episode tracks the ideas which have taken them from Rogan's kitchen table through two acquisitions into becoming one of the pre-eminent international sports marketing agencies of the digital era.

As the Paralympic Games continue in Tokyo, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Craig Spence, chief brand and communications officer at the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), and Jarrod Clyne, human rights advisor for the Human Rights Council at the International Disability Alliance.

They discuss the opportunity the Paralympics creates to celebrate and support people with disabilities, and how the IPC’s positioning and that of its brand partners are changing to meet the needs of the wider movement. Craig and Jarrod also talk about how athletes are building advocacy and introduce WeThe15, a multi-organisation campaign for the 1.2 billion people with disabilities worldwide.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Jon Varney, chief executive of newly promoted Premier League soccer club Brentford FC.

They reflect on Brentford’s unlikely journey to the top level of the English game – making their return after a 74-year absence – and the careful building that has gone into that process on and off the pitch. Jon also discusses the move from their much-loved old home, Griffin Park, to the new Brentford Community Stadium, adapting to different demands and financial horizons, commercial development and sustaining the team’s community.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by senior contributor Matt Rogan to discuss the first season of the Hundred, the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) much-heralded new short-form competition.

They talk about what worked and what needs work across the format, presentation and delivery, what the centralised model made possible and where existing teams and structures still bring irreplaceable value. They also consider what other rights holders and organisations in sport can learn, and how new fans can be brought in with or without new tournaments.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan speaks with John Dowson, chair at the English Institute of Sport to discuss the role of the board.

They talk about how the bi-monthly board meeting is just the start and how the very best not only support the organisations they are a part of but challenge them in their entirety. John outlines the importance of role clarity at the highest level and how cognitive diversity is fundamental to good decision making.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand how to navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

For this special edition podcast, SportsPro digital editor, Tom Bassam, is joined by Greenfly chief executive, Daniel Kirschner, to break down the 50 Most Marketable Athletes list. Then, Zoomph's director of business strategy, Scott Lewis, is on to explain the methodology behind the rankings.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The New York Times’ global sports reporter Tariq Panja joins deputy editor Sam Carp to assess the commercial impact of Lionel Messi’s arrival at Paris Saint-Germain.

Following Lionel Messi’s shock departure from FC Barcelona, The New York Times’ global sports reporter Tariq Panja joins SportsPro deputy editor Sam Carp to discuss whether it really should have come as a surprise at all.

They discuss what led to one of the greatest soccer players of all time having to leave the Nou Camp after more than 20 years, 672 goals and 35 trophies, the inevitability of his subsequent arrival at Paris Saint-Germain, and the potential commercial implications for Ligue 1 and La Liga.

There is also time for the pair to consider what this all says about Uefa’s existing financial fair play (FFP) rules, how Qatar will look to capitalise on Messi’s presence in Paris in the build-up to the 2022 Fifa World Cup, and some of soccer’s regulatory issues that have been laid bare by the whole saga.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro managing director Nick Meacham speaks with the FuboTV co-founder and chief executive, David Gandler, on the platform's recent success as well as its plan for the future.

It has been a successful period for FuboTV after announcing a record set of results for the last financial year and a bumper Q2 in 2021 - with that in mind, and with regular host Eoin Connolly away, we dip into the vault to bring you one of the most compelling conversations from a recent SportsPro event.

FuboTV is one of the most exciting streaming platforms on the planet and SportsPro was fortunate enough to have Gandler appear a keynote speaker at the OTT Summit USA back in February.

In this conversation, Gandler offers an insight into FuboTV’s key numbers and what they tell us about the platform’s strategy. He also identifies where the streaming platform's opportunities lie in betting, ecommerce, as well as live and on demand content.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Digital editor Tom Bassam and deputy editor Sam Carp look ahead to the start of the 2021/22 top-flight English soccer season.

With the 2021/22 Premier League season set to get underway with Arsenal’s trip to newly promoted Brentford on Friday, SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam is joined on the podcast by deputy editor Sam Carp for a commercial preview of the upcoming campaign.

They consider the return of fans to grounds, the measures being implemented to keep them safe, and whether attendances will immediately bounce back to pre-pandemic levels on the back of 16 months when habits and priorities might have changed.

There’s also time for the pair to discuss some of the hefty fees Premier League clubs have been spending on player transfers, and what that says about the strength of England’s top flight compared to Europe’s other major leagues as clubs continue to manage the financial fallout from the pandemic.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan speaks with Jonathan Perelman, President of ICM Stellar Sports to explore the art of the modern acquisition and the rapidly-changing face of athlete representation.

They reflect on Tokyo 2020, the new world of athlete activism and how representation must adapt if it is to survive. This conversation is also about the often mystified world of acquisitions, what must go right at the negotiation table and how to assemble a reliable team to get you through it.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand how to navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

As the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games draws to a close, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Angela Ruggiero, a former Olympic ice hockey champion and IOC member who is now the co-founder and chief executive of Sports Innovation Lab, and T Burns Sports founder Terrence Burns, an experienced advisor to brands, bids and federations.

They share some of their reflections on how the event has unfolded and what might have been learned about the future of the Olympic movement. That discussion includes the changing role and influence of athletes, how brand partners can carry the Olympic story and where they could draw new lines on social or political issues, and what the Games can offer future hosts.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Etienne Thobois, chief executive of the local organising committee for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

They discuss what the Paris 2024 team have been learning in Japan, how the Covid-19 pandemic has affected those activities and the progress of their own preparations, and how the pressure will change after the closing ceremony at Tokyo 2020.

They also talk about the Paris 2024 commercial programme and about how far the Games concept can reconnect the Olympics with the host city and its people, rethink how to encourage physical exercise, and showcase urban spaces in a more creative way.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by digital editor Tom Bassam to take on the opening days of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

They discuss the broadcast picture in Europe, where viewers of free-to-air services like the BBC are adjusting to more limited output as Discovery’s 50-territory rights deal kicks in for a summer event for the first time. They also ask what Discovery’s strategic intent is for Olympic content across Eurosport, Discovery+ and its range of European channels, as well as in its expanding global activities, and dive into the on-screen product.

Then, AP global sports correspondent Rob Harris is on the line from the media centre to give an insight into life inside the Covid-protective bubble in Japan, reflecting on how movement restrictions and mostly empty venues have changed the story of the Games.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan speaks to Craig Dews, chief executive of Limelight Sports, a marketing agency that unlocks the power of participation sport.

They discuss the truth about building and launching a new strategy, at a point where so much of the sports industry – not least the mass participation space – has had to rethink how and why it does things. The conversation covers how best to assess an organisation’s needs in an uncertain future, the realities of change management in the face of day-today priorities, bringing staff on board for the journey and judging progress along the way.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by Ricardo Fort, founder of the Sport By Fort consultancy and former global head of sponsorship at Coca-Cola, to look ahead to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

They discuss the reported apprehension around the host city as athletes and media arrive before the opening ceremony, whether the story of the event can escape the shadow of Covid-19, and how activities for partners will have been adapted. They also consider what value the Olympics holds for brands, reflect on Toyota’s decision not to promote its Games sponsorship within Japan, and ask how the movement’s message can be taken forward – and whether it is fans and Olympians who are best placed to do that.

There’s also time for a brief dip into the pages of issue 114 of SportsPro magazine, which is available this week.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

As Tokyo 2020 looms, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Max Siegel, chief executive of USA Track & Field.

They discuss preparing a team for the Olympics in pandemic conditions, how Covid-19 has affected the USATF, Sha’Carri Richardson’s THC ban, broader questions around anti-doping and competitive fairness, and how digital media and connected participation could shape the future of athletics.

Max also talks about diversity in leadership, how to bring new perspectives and experiences into an organisation, and the importance of giving athletes a voice on social issues as well as the growth of their sport.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Misha Sher, global head of sport, entertainment and culture at Mediacom, to talk about the growing role of athletes in media.

They discuss the fallout from Uefa Euro 2020, with England players on the front foot over racist abuse on social platforms, what to expect from the Olympics and next year’s Uefa Women’s Euro 2022, and how brands should navigate athlete-led conversations on social issues. There’s also time to look at LeBron James’ version of the Looney Tunes basketball caper Space Jam, and consider how entertainment crossovers have changed since Michael Jordan’s film in 1997.

Then (35.04), as the Open Championship approaches, soccer stars James Milner and Adam Lallana explain how they’re applying their experience to specialist golf agency White Rose Sports Management, appearing alongside new signing Ben Schmidt.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Claire Harvey MBE, former Paralympian turned global inclusion lead at telecoms brand Vodafone.

They talk about how to do better in the complex and sensitive area of inclusion and diversity, drawing on Claire’s experience in sport, business and beyond to try and set a path through new social norms and expectations. They also identify some positive steps that any organisation can take to improve their practices and their culture, and a few strong examples of where sport is getting things right.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

As Wembley Stadium gets ready to welcome England and Italy for the Uefa Euro 2020 final, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Chris Bryant, tournament director at the Football Association. They talk about the job of managing the demands of Uefa, public health authorities, local and national government as London’s role in the tournament has changed. They also discuss how Wembley Stadium has been prepared for the closing stages of the tournament, creating the right atmosphere for fans, the evolving identity of the ground and the surrounding area, Uefa Women’s Euro 2022 and the future.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam welcome Jean-Baptiste Roy, founding partner of Asia Sports Tech, as they review the second and final day of SportsPro APAC. On the agenda: the distinctive social media markets of India and China and what they mean for sports brands inside and outside those countries, the efforts of World Table Tennis to build an offering fit for the 2020s, and the power of the Paralympics to change perceptions of disability across Asia during Tokyo 2020. The panel hear from Facebook India VP and managing director Ajit Mohan, Chelsea head of global fan engagement Adam Field, and The Valuable 500 founder Caroline Casey.

Find out more about SportsPro APAC and register for on-demand access at www.sportsproapac.com

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and staff writer Ed Dixon are joined by Janna Jauhar, APEC director at Mailman Group, to wrap up the opening day of the SportsPro APAC virtual conference.

They discuss topics ranging from fan engagement and content customisation during the pandemic, and how to address a breadth of local audiences, to the differing impact of esports and mobile and digital platforms across a diverse region.

They also hear from Star and Disney India head of sports Sanjog Gupta, Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley, and Yoichiro Basso, the DAZN Group senior vice president for subscription growth in Japan.

Find out more about SportsPro APAC and register for live and on-demand access at www.sportsproapac.com

In a special edition of the podcast, SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan dives deep into his new book, All To Play For: How Sport Can Reboot Our Future, in conversation with editor at large Eoin Connolly. Matt explains how a more connected vision can not only help the sport prepare for the challenges of the era to come, but also help deliver its social and health benefits more powerfully. He discusses how the industry can better communicate its values to win round the next generation of fans, how it is already finding innovative points of contact with communities, and where technology and creativity will open up new opportunities.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

All To Play For: How Sport Can Reboot Our Future, by Matt Rogan with Kerry Potter, is available now in hardback and ebook from Ebury Publishing.

All to Play For

SportsPro deputy editor Sam Carp talks to James Rothwell, head of marketing for EMEA at TikTok, about the social media company’s partnership with Uefa Euro 2020.

They cover how TikTok’s campaign was brought together in the months before the tournament, what it has been doing to bring the fan conversation to its platform, and the impact that has been having on its community and its profile. They also identify the type of content that has captured the imagination so far, from user-generated posts to Ed Sheeran's live-streamed concert.

Then (31.26), Sport Buff co-founder and president Jonty Whitehead explains to SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly how gamification and interactive layers are encouraging deeper engagement with fans and giving rise to new monetisation opportunities. He also discusses the lessons sports broadcasters can learn from audience behaviour in esports and on streaming sites like Twitch.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this special edition of the SportsPro Podcast, editor-at-large Eoin Connolly speaks to outgoing Pac-12 commissioner, Larry Scott.

As the former WTA chief executive prepares to bow out at the end of June after leading the conference for 12 years, Scott reflects on his time at the helm of the organisation, the impact of the recent federal NIL ruling and the commercial state of US college sports post-Covid.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Daniel Geey and Andrew Nixon, partners at leading technology, media and sport-based law firm Sheridans.

They discuss what goes on under the bonnet at a sports service company, from the demands of a typical working day to the balance between working in the business – bringing in fees – and working on it by leading and managing. They also reflect on what the post-Covid era might mean for the law sector, how to attract the right new talent, relationship-building with clients and much more.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

As the first round of Uefa Euro 2020 draws to a close, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Kirsten Sibbit-Johnston, associate director at The Sports Consultancy, about how the tournament will have been viewed by the host cities.

They discuss the measurements that will have been most meaningful for understanding the tournament’s local impact, what Uefa will have learned about the political challenges of taking games to Munich and Budapest, whether the multi-nation model will appeal to other rights holders, and the compromises ahead for the events industry in a post-bubble, pre-normal phase of the pandemic.

Then (37.06), SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam gets a host venue’s perspective from Paul Bush OBE, director of events at EventScotland, who talks about the value of Glasgow’s Euro 2020 games, the impact of Covid on planning, and what’s next for the country’s strategy and the wider sector.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Scott O’Neil, chief executive of Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment, the group that owns the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. In a conversation recorded before a disappointing end to the Sixers’ playoff run, Scott talks about how HBSE has managed the priorities of two organisations at different stages of their development, how it has tried to keep employees energised and supported through the pandemic and two unusual NBA and NHL seasons, and what a post-Covid future looks like for the leagues. He also discusses his bestselling new book, Be Where Your Feet Are, about the importance of staying grounded and acknowledging difficult experiences, and how he has applied some of those lessons in trying to foster an honest, open dialogue over the tumultuous past 18 months.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined again by Matt Slater, football news reporter at The Athletic, to look back on the opening days of the men’s Uefa European Championship.

They discuss the handling of Christian Eriksen’s shocking collapse during Denmark’s game against Finland, reflecting on crucial advances in medical protection for players but asking whether Uefa and the media will review their protocols after the tournament. They also consider the UK government’s stance on the booing of England players’ anti-racist gesture of taking a knee, and share some wider reflections on the competition so far.

Then (36.22), TJ Iaciofano, head of growth and strategy consulting at Infront X, lays out some of the key trends for rights holders to look out for in developing digital products for fans. He explains how the delivery of fan experiences is changing – both for live content and, as supporters return to venues, for live events – and how to assess your own priorities and match that to design.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Tim Green, global head of delivery at the GAP Partnership, about the art and science of negotiation. Drawing on Tim’s experience with Coca-Cola, in sports marketing and now with a leading global negotiation consultancy, they discuss the finer details of a discipline which, while fundamental to success in business, is acquired by many mostly through on-the-job experience. Tim sets out some clear frameworks for how to negotiate effectively in practical scenarios from rights tenders to agency pitches to pay rises, explains how sales and negotiation skills differ, dispels some pervasive myths, and examines the role of leadership and culture.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by Octagon managing director of football Phil Carling to preview one of the biggest events in some time: Uefa Euro 2020.

They ask where the tournament now fits in the wider soccer industry; what the 24-team, multi-nation format means for fans, partners and hosts; what to expect from incoming sponsors like Just Eat and TikTok; and how Covid restrictions will affect plans over the next month.

Then (39.32), Liquiditeam co-founder and co-chief executive Thomas Euler goes beyond the headlines about NFTs and cryptocurrency to explain how blockchain technology and digital tokens can build engagement, add value for fans, and even help them build a stake in their teams.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Noah Garden, chief revenue officer of Major League Baseball. They discuss the financial and commercial impact of Covid-19, as a full schedule plays out across 2021, and how the pandemic has changed the interactions between the league, its teams and its partners. Noah also lays out the implications of MLB’s ‘One Baseball’ initiative to coordinate more of the sport’s activities and talks about balancing the regional sports network economy with the need to digitise its media strategy, the changing approach to filling stadiums, innovations in technology and international ambitions.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ahead of a busy summer of sport, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long reflect on some recent stories that draw together some key industry themes.

First, they discuss the withdrawal of tennis star Naomi Osaka from the French Open – where the world number two had wanted to avoid mandatory press conferences to protect her mental health – and consider what it says about the need to modernise communications between athletes and the media.

They also look back on the Uefa Champions League final in Porto, picking up on an intriguing New York Times report about a future ‘final four’ week for European club soccer’s showpiece, and comparing the ownership strategies of the Super League class with Premier League-bound Brentford.

Then (39.36) to coincide with the release of the whitepaper ‘Making the Personal Possible: Powering Interactivity and New Experiences in Sports OTT’, Limelight Networks’ Charlie Kraus explains some of the technology that enables interactive, customisable experiences in live digital broadcasts.

Making the Personal Possible: Powering Interactivity and New Experiences in Sports OTT is a whitepaper produced by SportsPro in collaboration with Limelight Networks. Find out more and download your copy here.Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Jane Purdon, the chief executive of Women in Football, and former head of governance and leadership at UK Sport and director of governance at the Premier League.

They discuss some of the best ways to think about governance as a means of responsibly exercising power, listening to a more diverse range of voices, and working effectively to meet fundamental challenges. The conversation covers some of the best governance structures for different types of sports organisation, lessons in governance from the pandemic and soccer’s collapsed Super League, and how everything comes down to people.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

Gaming takes centre stage in this session from the SportsPro Insider Series. Hosted by Becca Henry, vice president of communications at Misfits Gaming Group, and with a panel featuring George Mead, Fnatic’s partnerships director, and Alex Nuñez, brand partnerships and advertising sales lead for EA Sports Madden NFL, the three unpick what brands can do to flourish in the expanding esports sponsorship space.

Topics covered include bridging the gap between traditional sports and esports, creating effective activations, the evolution of partnerships, maximising return on investment, breaking non-endemic barriers and how branded campaigns are treated differently in competitive gaming.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Nevin Truesdale, chief executive of the Jockey Club, one of the most important commercial organisations in British horse racing and operator of venues like Cheltenham, Epsom Downs, Newmarket and Aintree. With fans returning to UK sports events in larger numbers, Nevin talks about the summer ahead for the business and its vision for the years ahead. He also discusses a year of difficult financial restructuring, how a rebuilt Jockey Club team is now being prepared for the opportunities on the horizon, and the roles of data, betting, new waves of partners and elite athletes in racing’s future.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by managing director Nick Meacham and Tony Maroulis, principal analyst at Ampere Analysis, to discuss two huge sports media stories.

First up, they consider what the Premier League’s rollover of its UK£4.7 billion domestic rights deals with Sky Sports, BT Sport and Amazon says about the strategic outlook for English soccer’s top flight ahead of a period of digital transition, the health of the market in Europe, and the merits of the three-year sales cycle.

Next on the agenda is AT&T’s decision to merge its WarnerMedia assets, including the likes of Turner Sports, with Discovery, which owns Eurosport and GolfTV. They ask what the creation of another massive media group will mean for the industry, what the implications are for partners like the NBA and IOC, and whether this creates a path to a more globalised sports offering.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In a session recorded for SportsPro Live in April, SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Andrea Gaudenzi, the chairman of men’s tennis’ ATP.

They discuss the challenges of taking sports organisations through internal and external change – updating the structures within the ATP and tennis, and addressing wider industry forces through the media and fan behaviour. Gaudenzi reveals how his experiences on the court, as a former world top 20 player, and in business, particularly in music when that sector was undergoing its own profound transformation, have informed his leadership style, his attitudes to managing and coordinating expectations, and his strategic vision for the game.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

Editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by deputy editor Sam Carp and staff writer Ed Dixon to talk through SportsPro's 2021 Destinations Report.

The three assess the state of play for the business of hosting as major events and international tourism return, and also cast their eye over the cities that are effectively positioning themselves as leading hosts, as well as others hoping to do so.

Then (29.42), in another session from last month's SportsPro Live, event content manager Chris Stone hears from Henk van Raan, chief innovation officer at Johan Cruijff Arena. Here, van Raan explains how stadiums can evolve beyond simply hosting events, what fans can expect when attending matches in the future and what technology they are likely to see more of in venues.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Sanjay Bhandari, the chair of English soccer’s anti-discrimination charity, Kick It Out. They reflect on the widespread social media boycott with which UK sport began the month of May, how that protest came together and its realistic goals. The discussion covers how racist, sexist and other abuse has become so prevalent for some users of those platforms – notably athletes and other public figures associated with sport – and consider the educational, legislative and technological means available to tackle those toxic environments. Sanjay also explains how Kick It Out’s role is changing within soccer, sport, and culture, and what the wider industry can do to make a meaningful contribution in the fight against discrimination.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Hattie Park, sustainability manager at the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), and Matthew Campelli, founder and editor of the Sustainability Report and director of sustainability at Touchline, to discuss how sport can meet the ‘triple-bottom line’ of social, environmental and economic impact.

They talk about the challenges and benefits of working sustainable practices into sports businesses and how to change attitudes throughout the industry. They also cover the ways in which new environmental and community initiatives are being woven into operations, planning and the fan experience at Wimbledon.

Elsewhere, there’s time to hear a pitch at SportsPro Live from the students at Sheffield Hallam University, winners of the first SportsPro Sustainability Hackathon.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan is joined by the hugely experienced sports and gaming executive Peter Moore: veteran of Reebok, Sega of America, Microsoft, EA Sports, and former chief executive of Liverpool FC; now working with Unity Technologies, and as an adviser to new owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny at soccer club Wrexham AFC. In a wide-ranging conversation, Peter explores the many sides of leadership. He describes how the Hollywood takeover at lower-league Wrexham is about community impact as much as commercial opportunity, and dives into comparisons and contrasts of everything from talent to fanbases in soccer and video games.

He also explains how EA Sports rode out the digital transformation of its industry and, in an interview recorded before news of a breakaway Super League attempt in the European game, reflects on the privilege and responsibility of running Liverpool, his hometown club.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam are joined by Minal Modha, principal analyst and consumer research lead at Ampere Analysis, to review day two of SportsPro Live 2021. The broadcast sector dominates the agenda, with Tom recapping his interview with DAZN co-CEO James Rushton, after an eventful year for the global streaming service, and the trio discussing Discovery’s strategy ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, with the new Discovery+ OTT set to come to the fore – as Eurosport president Andrew Georgiou explained in his session with SportsPro’s Nick Meacham. There’s also time to talk about the emergence of Whoop during the pandemic and, away from the virtual conference floor, BT’s reported decision to sell part of its sports broadcast business in the UK.

In the first of two live specials, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by Seven League consulting partner Charlie Beall to recap day one of SportsPro Live 2021.

They listen in on clips featuring England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief executive Tom Harrison, Milwaukee Bucks EVP of business operations Raven Jemison and Matchroom Sport's Eddie Hearn, and discuss themes from the future of live events to entertainment crossovers, new formats and storytelling.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Sarah Lewis, the long-serving former secretary general of the International Ski Federation (FIS) who is now running for the presidency of the organisation.

Lewis outlines what has shaped her candidacy and her attitudes to leadership since her shock dismissal from the FIS last October, and what has influenced her thoughts on the future of snow sports and the role of federations. Breaking down her Piste Map programme, she shares her ideas on future sources of revenue, governance guidelines, and a more inclusive community, as well as the responsibilities of sports bodies in everything from commercial growth to environmental sustainability.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly brings in managing director Nick Meacham, deputy editor Sam Carp, New York Times global sports reporter Tariq Panja and The Athletic football news reporter Matt Slater to recap the rapid rise and fall of European soccer’s Super League.

They try to piece together a dramatic but ultimately catastrophic launch and communications plan; ask whether the project was doomed by the mixed motivations of the clubs involved, and the absence of PSG and Bayern Munich; and explore the actual value of the concept in theory and in practice.

And with fan groups, governments, broadcasters and sponsors briefly united in opposition, they look at what strengths lie in the existing soccer pyramid and what can come next.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan returns to talk to Tracey Greaves, chief commercial officer and chief executive of Kinrara at the Goodwood Group.

They discuss the unique challenges of leading the commercial fortunes of a wide array of businesses within the historic organisation, balancing tradition with innovation for an iconic brand and building a premium experience that delivers on customer expectations.

They also look at launching new ventures in a post-pandemic world, while Tracey explains how the Kinrara consulting arm will extend the Goodwood success story.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

In a session from the most recent event in the SportsPro Insider Series, Women's Tennis Association (WTA) president Micky Lawler and Danita Johnson, president of business operations at Major League Soccer's (MLS) DC United, tell CNN Sport's Amanda Davies about their experience as women leading sports organisations.

They discuss the pathways that have taken them into their respective positions and the need to open up more opportunities, the importance of mentorship and allyship, managing frustrating commercial conversations, female representation in the bigger picture of inclusion, and much more.

Meanwhile, SportsPro deputy editor Sam Carp takes editor at large Eoin Connolly through issue 113 of SportsPro magazine, with a deep focus on federations and sporting destinations.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Louise Johnson, UK and EMEA chief executive at sports and entertainment marketing agency Fuse, about Covid-era challenges in sponsorship and the future shape of the sector.

They discuss brand plans and expectations as fans begin their return to live events, the balance between physical and digital activations in the years ahead, the launch of rights holder consultancy Fuse Ignite, where agencies can still add value and how they can stay agile enough to navigate the industry transformation to come.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

On the eve of the 2021 Masters at Augusta, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to BBC Sport golf correspondent Iain Carter and industry veteran Giles Morgan about the prospect of an elite world tour in the game.

On the agenda: the incentives for the PGA Tour and European Tour in greater collaboration, the opportunity in combining with women’s golf, the spectre of the Premier Golf League, what fans and players want, and what sponsors and broadcasters are telling us.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to John Deadman, director of sport and co-curricular activity at Dr Challoner’s School, about how sport is shaping young people and vice versa. John explains what went into building a culture of success, and what success really means, at the UK’s leading state-funded sports school of the past year. They also discuss what comes next: the lasting value of sport in schools and academic organisations, why getting students involved matters as much as trophies, and what the world of business can expect from these incoming arrivals in the workplace.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly talks to Al Guido, president of the San Francisco 49ers.

They discuss the implications of the NFL’s massive new set of broadcast rights deals, how the 49ers have adapted to pandemic restrictions and what they have planned for the return of fans, the job of turning Levi’s Stadium into a mass vaccination site, the lessons learned through their minority stake in Leeds United, and much more.

Meanwhile, from his perspective as chairman and chief executive of Elevate Sports Ventures, Al lays out some of the challenges he believes are facing the sports business over the next decade.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly talks to Timo Lumme, the managing director of television and marketing services at the International Olympic Committee. They discuss the adaptations made to pull the Games together for Tokyo 2020, the significance of a stable hosting schedule for the next decade, how the IOC’s TOP global sponsorship programme has been regenerated in recent years, digital expansion, athlete-led storytelling, original filmmaking and the other steps towards an Olympic media project that lives from “flame to flame”, and much more.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ahead of the new Formula One season, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly sits down with the BlackBook Motorsport's executive director Peter Jones and staff writer Georgina Yeomans to preview the upcoming campaign.

Then (34.01), Yeomans in on the line with Ellie Norman, Formula One's director of marketing and communications, to hear what the series is doing to engage with younger fans, where important future markets lie and how the success of Netflix's Drive to Survive is benefiting the sport.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Jim Donald, the hugely experienced production director behind London's New Year's Eve fireworks display and a host of opening ceremonies and tech launches.

The discuss the creativity, communication and deep collaboration that goes into delivering complex events, when you need to consider everything from the weather to the realities of flying drones over a major capital. Jim explains how he manages stakeholders, prepares for the unexpected, and gives his teams both protection and room to grow.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

With the NFL's new multi-billion dollar rights deals dominating the sports business headlines, SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam speaks to Patrick Crakes, principal of Crakes Media Consulting and Fox Sports' former senior vice president programming, research and content strategy.

In a comprehensive roundup, Crakes gives experts insight into what the contracts mean for the NFL and the wider US broadcast landscape. He also picks the winners and losers from a set of deals that are set to see the league earn a staggering US$110 billion over 11 years.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, The New York Times’ global sports reporter Tariq Panja returns to the podcast alongside SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly. The two look at the latest goings on for the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics and Euro 2020, as well as what the state of play is for the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Uefa and wider sport. Then (41.48), Eoin speaks to Daniel Heal, partner and global head of sport at specialist risk consultancy Control Risks, to discuss sport's attitude to risk management, how that has changed over the past year and what needs to be done when approaching the subject.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Carsten Thode, founder and chief executive of the radical event startup Aphetor. They discuss the insights about the traditional sports rights model that inspired this “gonzo journalism version of the X-Games”, how the “innovator’s dilemma” makes it harder for sport to break out of its commercial conventions, the value of building your own audience, the practical lessons of 2020's pilot edition, prospects for scale and plans for new events in different destinations with a whole range of content creators. Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In a new entry from the SportsPro Insider Series, editorial director Michael Long talks to Courtside VC partner Deepen Parekh, Drive by DraftKings managing partner and chief executive Meredith McPherron and Elevate president Chip Bowers about the sports tech ideas to invest in now. They discuss the sports tech trends to watch, and be wary of, in 2021, as well as how the pandemic has changed the investment game, what to look out for after Covid recedes, and how they go about their own business.

The next SportsPro Insider Series event – Monetising Sports Consumption – will be held on Wednesday 17th March. For more details, free registration, and the chance to catch up with every session online, head to www.sportsproinsiderseries.com

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to Emily Frazer, managing director of Matchroom Multi-Sport, about the confidence, collaboration and adaptability it takes to make things work inside one of the world’s pre-eminent sports promoters. They discuss how the multi-sport project has developed out of the Matchroom Sport stable, preparing teams for the unexpected at home and abroad, and how Emily intends to pay forward the support she has received as a female leader in the sports industry.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly returns to recap the second day of the SportsPro OTT Summit USA. ESPN’s Burke Magnus and the PGA Tour’s Rick Anderson lay out the state of the union for SportsPro managing director Nick Meacham (2.18), and Verimatrix chief revenue officer Lu Bolden (20.20) talks to Eoin about how security solutions can keep up with an ever-wider range of integrated digital experiences. Then there is more from the virtual conference stage, with insight from Concacaf on aligning responsibility with media strategy (41.25), from Formula E on moving a valuable target audience through the funnel (46.45), from Sinclair Broadcasting Group on the route to gamification and customisation (48.39), and from TikTok (51.40) about leaning into the creative culture on the platform.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly presents selected highlights from the first day of the SportsPro OTT Summit USA. He shares part of his interview on the virtual stage with UFC chief operating officer Lawrence Epstein (2.50) about the MMA promoter’s media strategy, and talks to Jean Macher, the business development director for SaaS Solutions at platinum partner Harmonic (17.59), about supporting the accelerating demands of the OTT sector. There’s also time to hear from keynote speaker and FuboTV co-founder and chief executive David Gandler (31.44) about what the platform’s record financial results tell us about its future, and to get notes from NBC Sports about the benefits of stake-free gaming products (38.22), from YouTube on getting value out of highlights (41.20), and from the NFL (43.05) about what the league has learned from streaming on Twitch.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Jordan Gardner, chairman and co-owner of Danish Superliga soccer club FC Helsingor, about the dynamics of investment into the European game. Gardner explains where he sees the opportunities in the sport, what he has learned in Denmark and through smaller investments in Championship team Swansea City and League of Ireland team Dundalk, his ownership group’s ambitions to scale their model elsewhere, and his thoughts on debates around reforms to the competitive pyramid.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With SportsPro's OTT Summit USA taking place next week, editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam highlight some of the sessions to look out for, as well as discussing some of the more intriguing current trends from the world of over-the-top (OTT) broadcasting.

Then (24.01), Eoin is on the line with Akamai's director of industry and product marketing for EMEA, Ian Munford, to hear how the company is working to combat piracy across sport.

The SportsPro OTT Summit USA will be held virtually from 3rd to 4th March. To find out more and sign up, click here*.

For more information on Akamai’s content security solutions click here, or contact Akamai here.*

Akamai also invite you to review: * Video Piracy - Reference Architecture * Inside The World of Video Pirates - Whitepaper * The Truth About Piracy – Presentation * The Truth About Piracy: The Pervasive Problem That Won’t Go Away – Edge Live Video

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan chats with Paul Brown, the founder and chief executive of plant-based nutrition brand BOL Foods, about deciding on a purpose for a business and maintaining quality through growth. They discuss Paul’s journey from the professional snowboard circuit to sustainable meals, how his focus on core principles inspired him cut the company in half, the qualities he looks for in an investor, the things others see when they buy into your ideas, and why what you put into a project is as important as what you get out of it.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

As the Six Nations continues, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes pirate-podcaster and veteran sports industry consultant Giles Morgan, and Blackstar Capital portfolio manager James Paul to talk all things rugby union.

With the sport attracting private equity investment, it could be set for arguably its biggest shakeup since turning professional more than 25 years ago. Here, the three discuss rugby's future direction, what private equity means for the sport, as well as where its biggest challenges and opportunities lie.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Casper Stylsvig, the chief revenue officer at celebrated Italian soccer club AC Milan. They discuss how the Serie A pace-setters have adapted commercially to the Covid-19 crisis, and maintained contact with fans with the San Siro closed, while Stylsvig also outlines a digital transformation project that will be at the centre of future relationships with supporters and partners worldwide. They also cover the Rossoneri’s new in-house content production facility and explore the role of players and on-field performance in the modern sponsorship space.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

After SportsPro revealed its 2021 class of 20 sports tech ideas to invest in, editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long go through the picks and assess why these early stage companies are ones to watch.

Then (17.09), Eoin speaks to Daniel Kirschner, president and chief executive at Greenfly, to learn about the software solutions company's work in the world of video consumption and how it is helping sports brands with content creation and distribution.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In the first of a new series of practical conversations with leaders inside and outside sport, SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks about how to build a strong base for your communication with Natalie Benjamin, partner at performance management consultancy Lane4.

They discuss the importance of honesty and clarity in leadership communication, understanding what to share and how, and recreating some of the subtler aspects of internal and external exchanges in Covid-compromised times.

The SportsPro Playbook is the place to go for agenda-free, pragmatic advice to understand howto navigate your organisation through change. Head to sportspromedia.com/playbook to catch up on our library of articles and podcasts, and learn more about how our new Playbook Labs programme can help you lead your organisation to success in 2021 and beyond.

With just days to go until the National Football League's (NFL) championship game, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes Sportico's sports business reporter Eben Novy-Williams for a Super Bowl special.

As well as previewing the event, the pair reflect on the NFL's season and where the league is heading as it looks to move on from its Covid-affected campaign.

Then (34.36), deputy editor Sam Carp is on the line with Fan Controlled Football's co-founder and chief executive, Sohrob Farudi, to find out more about the concept and why he thinks the league will succeed in the packed US marketplace.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Miles Jacobson, studio director of Sports Interactive, the company behind the iconic Football Manager video game series.

They talk about how the developer has responded to Covid-19 inside and outside the game (7.45), the continued evolution of Sports Interactive’s data modelling and its relationship with professional clubs (25.03), and nurturing a digital community (36.24) that has grown with the title from its scrappy origins to its multi-million selling place in the gaming pantheon.

*This podcast also contains discussions of the work Sports Interactive has done to promote access to mental health charities for its players during the pandemic, such as making in-game advertisements available for free.

Among the organisations it has collaborated with are CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably, Samaritans, Mind, and Mental Health UK. Links to their websites are included here for the benefit of anyone whose mental wellbeing has been affected by recent events.*Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Talk of Europe's top soccer clubs breaking away and forming their own super league has existed for decades, but is the sport closer than ever to a continental 'super league'? In this episode, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam delve into the commercial arguments around soccer's future and what it all means for the sport if the big clubs get their way.

Phil Carling, managing director of football at Octagon Worldwide, and Charlie Marshall, chief executive of the European Club Association (ECA), are also on hand to give their perspective.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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Ahead of the launch of his new Playbook Podcast series, SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan talks to editor at large Eoin Connolly about how sports businesses can deliver on their plans in changing times. In another wide-ranging conversation, they discuss building a sense of collective ownership to give team members a shared purpose and strategic buy-in, managing performance relentlessly but with an emphasis on core priorities (32.02), and how empathetic leadership can help those at the top stave off isolation and mental strain (55.01). Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Jene Elzie, chief growth officer at Athletes First Partners, and Len Elmore, senior lecturer in the sports management programme at Columbia University.

With Joe Biden sworn in as US president, the three delve into the tumultuous Trump tenure and how it changed the relationship between sport and politics, particularly in the context of athlete activism and brand engagement, and ways it will evolve now there is a new man in the Oval Office.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Alberto Longo, co-founder and deputy chief executive of all-electric motorsport series Formula E. A few weeks ahead of a season-opening night race in Diryah they discuss the continued development of the championship, from its hosting strategy to its relationship with manufacturers and its digital media output and esports events. They also consider Formula E’s role in a changing conversation around sustainability, including how it will sit alongside newcomer Extreme E, how it will retain its USP as other series pursue greener ambitions, and how it is maintaining its own drive to be cleaner and more efficient.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly, digital editor Tom Bassam and deputy editor Sam Carp assess the ten figures set to play a major role across sport over the next year.

The trio reflect on SportsPro's annual list, which ranges from a prime minister to a professional tennis player, identifying the merits and the broader context behind their inclusion.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Anmol Malhotra, the head of sports partnerships at Snap. Malhotra explains how social platform Snapchat combines fun, intuitive messaging with proprietary camera technology and AR to appeal to a younger audience and how it aims to help sports publishers, broadcasters, brands, teams and athletes to do the same. He also talks about how those collaborations are structured, from financial incentives to IP integration and content ideas. Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Andrew Georgiou, the president of Discovery-owned pan-continental broadcaster Eurosport.

They discuss the launch of the Discovery+ direct-to-consumer service and its impact on the group's sports project (3.25), how Eurosport is adapting to the unique challenges of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (20.00), and the implications of digital transformation for rights models and programming concepts (38.01).

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Manoj Badale, owner of Indian Premier League cricket team Rajasthan Royals.

They discuss the lessons of Manoj's new book – A New Innings, co-authored with cricket writer, analyst and broadcaster Simon Hughes – and track some of the trends that have marked his work in the sport and a few that will define its future.

On the agenda are the tensions between protection and progress, the export and domestic growth potential of Indian sport, the need to rebalance commercial models and reestablish priorities, weathering Covid and preparing for new opportunities.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro’s editorial team get behind their mics for one last time in 2020, as Eoin Connolly, Michael Long, Tom Bassam and Sam Carp review some of the best and worst moments of an extraordinary 12 months. They consider some of the best and worst events, deals, innovations and moments of a unique year, casting an eye over everything from the NBA bubble and the NFL Virtual Draft to OneFootball’s takeover of Dugout, circling venture capital, big moves for Brett Gosper and Stefano Domenicali, and the fate of SportsPro’s ten influencers. Meanwhile, Matt Rogan, Alexandra Willis and Adam Fraser drop in to share their New Year’s Resolutions for the sports industry for 2021.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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The SportsPro editorial team get together for the first of a two-part review of 2020, with Eoin Connolly, Michael Long, Tom Bassam and Sam Carp looking over some of the big themes of the sports industry year. Remembering the sudden halt to sporting activity in March and how that exposed underlying frailties in the industry, while also unleashing unprecedented creativity, they consider how the forced migration to digital platforms created glimpses of what might outlast the crisis, and how a summer of protests emboldened athletes to pursue meaningful change. There’s also time for some thoughts on 2021 and New Year’s resolutions for the sports business from Nick Meacham, Marisa Reich, Charlie Beall and Professor Simon Chadwick. Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Peter Feigin, president of the Milwaukee Bucks, in the build-up to an unusual new NBA season. They discuss the challenges of heading back to the Fiserv Forum behind closed doors, including the logistical and production plans behind that return and the financial measures helping teams through a campaign that is set for limited fan attendance. Then Feigin describes the experience of an emotional summer of protests against racial inequality – one where the Bucks withdrew from a playoff game after the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin – and explains how his outlook on the social responsibility of sports teams has been influenced by the events of 2020.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this esports-focused episode, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by staff writer, and the podcast's very own producer, Ed Dixon to talk through the latest developments in competitive gaming. Then (20:54), Eoin speaks to Amir Mirzaee, chief operating officer at Bayes Esports. Having worked in business development at the Google subsidiary Waze, Mirazee is the latest executive to make the switch to gaming. Here, he discusses Bayes' involvement in esports, the sector's investment appeal and more, including what to expect in 2021.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In a final entry from the SportsPro Insider Series for 2020, SportsPro event content manager Chris Stone finds out about how cycling events promoter Sweetspot and carmaker Skoda are working together on the Women’s Tour. Chris is joined by Sweetspot chief executive Hugh Roberts, Skoda communications manager Lisa Kirkbright, and professional cyclist Lizzy Banks, who explain how the sponsorship operates, how the Women’s Tour sets the standard internationally, and why women’s cycling offers so much potential for prospective partners.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined by Yannick Ramcke, OTT commercial lead at OneFootball, to look back on the second and final day of the 2020 SportsPro OTT Summit.

They discuss why an NFL sales bonanza could reorder the rest of the sports media business, how rights holders and broadcasters are changing how they think about monetising content, and whether the path is opening up for women's soccer to go its own way.

Then, in a round-up of the sessions on day two, NBC Sports Group's Jon Miller presents his US market projections (36.40), Fifa's Eva Norroy explains the legal picture in piracy control (42.35), LiveLike co-founder Miheer Walavalkar talks best practice in fan engagement (45.55), and TikTok's Harish Sarma (49.25) weighs up the value of live sport and highlights.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by sports consultant Drew Barrand to review day one of the SportsPro OTT Summit.

They discuss Drew’s state of the industry conversation with former Sky Sports MD Barney Francis, as well as Amazon’s sports strategy and Eoin’s panels on gamification and storytelling. There’s then time to drop in on a few sessions from the opening day, as Marie Donohue defines sport’s place in the Amazon ecosystem (23.59), Joe Markowski explains why DAZN is looking to linear TV options (27.38), Michael Sutherland of Real Madrid shares his reasons for optimism about VR and AR (31.11), and Gui Pellan reveals why Olympique de Marseille (36.13) built a studio just for Twitch.

SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan returns to discuss the post-Covid outlook for the sports industry with editor at large Eoin Connolly, completing a picture of the world in 2022. Matt outlines a five-point plan to help sports bodies weather the macroeconomic turmoil to come in the next few years, from localisation to government intervention to inflation and pressure on profit margins. Then the conversation shifts to purpose (43.10), and working towards meaningful, tangible change in the wider world through initiatives that grow from within an organisation.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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Ahead of SportsPro's OTT Summit next week, editor at large Eoin Connolly, editorial director Michael Long, and digital editor Tom Bassam preview the virtual event and what to look out for over the two days.

The three also discuss the stories that have caught their attention in recent weeks, including Amazon's landmark New Zealand cricket streaming deal in India.

Then, in the latest cut from SportsPro's Insider Series, Eoin speaks to Lee Price, head of PR and mischief at Paddy Power (24:33). During the session, Lee revisits the bookmaker's much-publicised 'Save Our Shirt' campaign, as well as explaining Paddy Power's unique take on sponsorship and what other brands can learn from this approach.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam talks to Paul Barber, the chief executive of Premier League soccer club Brighton and Hove Albion, about an extraordinary year in the English game. They discuss what lies ahead for the business of soccer after the Covid-19 pandemic, the ins and outs of Project Big Picture, the lessons of the Premier League’s pay-per-view experiment, and the continued importance of matchday income to even the biggest teams.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With the ATP Finals midway through its London swansong, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined by David Law, BBC Radio 5 Live tennis commentator and co-host of The Tennis Podcast, for an in-depth discussion on the business of tennis.

As well as talking through the men’s season-ending ATP Finals before its move to Turin, the three also touch on how tennis has coped over the course of a disrupted year, consider the mooted ATP-WTA merger and chew over reasons for the sport to be optimistic in 2021.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Anouk Mertens, Eleven chief operating officer, Neo Studios managing director and executive producer of the Leeds United documentary series Take Us Home. Mertens explains how the project came together, reveals what it took to get Oscar-winner Russell Crowe on board as narrator, and discusses the future of Neo Studios and the value of original and documentary programming in sports media.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

As the Masters tees off, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes Giles Morgan, respected global sports sponsorship consultant and executive vice president of Pumpjack Dataworks, and Richard Gillis, creator of the Unofficial Partner podcast, to talk the business of golf.

Forming something of a sports industry podcast supergroup, given Giles' experience at the helm of the Captain's Table, the trio preview the delayed Masters tournament at Augusta National, muse on how golf has fared during 2020, as well as its future prospects, and discuss what the sport needs to do to stay relevant.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam talks to Mallory Rubin, the editor in chief at The Ringer, about how it approaches its podcasts across sports, entertainment and culture. They discuss what goes into developing a Ringer podcast series, what the company has learned about what works in the medium, and building communities around shows, while Rubin also reveals how operations and ambitions have changed since a US$200 million acquisition by Spotify early this year.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Joining editor at large Eoin Connolly on the latest edition of the podcast are editorial director Michael Long and deputy editor Sam Carp. The three preview the latest SportsPro magazine (02:07) before diving into some of the noteworthy news from the sports industry, including Fan Controlled Football (07:46), relaxed commercial inventory (15:16) – including US sports betting – and the continued absence of fans (23:33).

Then, Eoin speaks to Joseph Hopkins (31:47), senior vice president corporate and business development at video solutions company LTN Global, to find out about the changes in the world of broadcast production and distribution.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro senior contributor Matt Rogan, the co-founder of Two Circles, tells editor at large Eoin Connolly about the latest instalment of his leadership series for challenging times - including those that will follow the Covid-19 crisis. Considering the influence of everything from Parkrun to Zwift and the Drone Racing League to the music industry, the first part of a conversation about the world in 2022 focuses on delivering events and properties that can straddle digital and physical spaces, and developing more fluid business models for sport that can help it transition into a new era.

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The revelation from Barcelona's outgoing president Josep Maria Bartomeu that the club have accepted a proposal to compete in a European super league has prompted further speculation over the new future of soccer on the continent as the sport continues to navigate through Covid-19.

With much up for discussion, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by the Associated Press' (AP) global sports correspondent Rob Harris to unpick the latest developments.

In this episode, the pair dive into a range of issues surrounding the game, including pay-per-view (PPV) games, the English Football League (EFL) bailout, and the proposed European Premier League.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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In another entry from the SportsPro Insider Series, editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to RC Buford, chief executive of Spurs Sports and Entertainment, about leading an organisation through uniquely challenging times.

Buford discusses how the San Antonio Spurs reacted to a disrupted NBA season, preparing for life in and after the 'bubble', communicating difficult decisions during the Covid-19 pandemic, empowering people in a crisis, and plans to rebound on and off the court.

He also talks about how the Spurs organisation chose to respond to 2020's wave of Black Lives Matter protests, and how it conducted internal conversations about race and social injustice.

As SportsPro Asia draws to a close, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp review events on day two with Greg Turner, founder and managing director of Shenzhen High Performance Event Management.

They take a long look at China, considering the government's role in sports events there and whether political developments will result in a strategic reset, and how the social media landscape differs from the rest of the world.

After that, there is another round-up of some telling moments from the virtual stage, including ITTF chief executive Steve Dainton's take on the World Table Tennis media plan (30.28), why YouTube is always ready for prime time (34.17), MLB's animated efforts to embed baseball in Chinese culture (38.40), and an outline of the Australian legacy concept (43.14) for the 2023 Fifa Women's World Cup.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined by Unmish Parthasarathi, the founder of Picture Board Partners, to wrap up the first day of the SportsPro Asia virtual event. The big talking points include Chatri Sityodtong on ONE Championship’s direct-to-consumer strategy, and India’s status as a market to watch, with NBA Asia EVP and MD Scott Levy saying the league would have more fans there than in any other country in the next five years. They also look ahead to ITTF chief executive Steve Dainton’s appearance on day two. There’s then time to pick up on some other highlights direct from the virtual stage, featuring Olympic Channel general manager Mark Parkman, also on India (32.20); Synamedia VP of intelligence and security operations Avigail Gutman on regional challenges in anti-piracy (36.40); DAZN’s Martyn Jones and the J-League’s Oya Takeyuki on the evolution of their partnership (40.33); and Kayo Sports chief executive Julian Ogrin (46.47) with four vital lessons from the buoyant Australian OTT service.

Editor at large Eoin Connolly sees out 50MM 2020 alongside SponsorPulse's global lead Adam Mitchell as the two assess the World's 50 Most Marketable Properties. With soccer dominating the standings, Eoin and Adam discuss the sport's success in this field, as well as exploring other notable results and SponsorPulse's formula, the Opportunity Score, which provides a universal currency for measuring thousands of properties globally.

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Ahead of his appearance at SportsPro Asia, Rajasthan Royals chief operating officer Jake Lush McCrum talks to SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly about an unusual yet thrilling Indian Premier League season.

They discuss the challenges of operating in a Covid-19 bubble, the Royals' commercial programme and their work with sponsors like Red Bull, a groundbreaking women's health campaign with sanitary products brand Niine, and much more.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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Editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes back Scott Tilton, co-founder and chief executive of Hookit, to talk through SportsPro’s inaugural list of the World’s 50 Most Marketed Brands.

Among other topics of conversation include what brands need to do to promote themselves most effectively, what their priorities are, the impact of Coivd-19, how social marketing has changed, and recognising social justice causes such as Black Lives Matter.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

SportsPro senior reporter Steve Impey talks to Sameer Pabari, the managing director for international media at the National Football League (NFL). In a wide-ranging discussion of the league’s global strategy, Pabari explores the implications of a new deal with digital giant Tencent in China and a dedicated Sky Sports channel in the UK, as well the impact of cancelled International Series games and the increased competition with rescheduled US major leagues in 2020. He also reveals how the NFL targets different parts of its audience with different broadcast products, where it sees long-term potential for overseas growth, and how its media activities align with broader goals.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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Now the World’s 50 Most Marketable Athletes list is out for all to see, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp analyse the key findings from this year's edition with the help of Salvatore De Angelis, Nielsen Sports’ head of digital, international.

With much up for debate, the three break down the standings, the methodology used by Nielsen to reach the results and what it all means for the future of sports marketability.

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As 16 teams head into an expanded play-off stretch, Major League Baseball chief operations and strategy officer Chris Marinak talks to SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly about the future of America's pastime.

They discuss the unique challenges of 2020, new experiments in digital engagement, and how MLB is planning to build the baseball experience of tomorrow around each individual fan.

Endurance sport takes centre stage on this week's podcast as SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes the Professional Triathletes Organisation's (PTO) chief executive Sam Renouf and vice chairman Chris Kermode (04:03).

After launching in January 2020, having secured significant capital from Crankstart Investments, the PTO is looking to improve commercial prospects for triathletes. Here, Eoin, Sam and Chris discuss triathlon's commercial and broadcast potential, its financial backing, adapting to Covid-19 and differentiating PTO events from other sports.

Chris also reflects on his time as executive chairman and president of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and what drew him to his new role at the PTO (36:40).

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is back with editorial director Michael Long, wrapping up some of the key talking points from day two of SportsPro Live. They’re joined by Swipe Right PR founder Kirsty Endfield, who brings everyone up to date on the esports conversations from around the event, and Seven League consulting partner Charlie Beall returns from the conference round tables to give his thoughts on taking physical experiences into digital spaces. Then there’s time for some more excerpts from the virtual stage: former Manchester United and England footballer Gary Neville talks communication (34.05), we hear why 23 is not the only number synonymous with Michael Jordan (38.40), and Yath Gangakumaran lays out Formula One’s sustainable vision for the future (42.05).

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by Jeff Nathenson, managing director, international at Whistle Sports, to review the first day of the first fully virtual SportsPro Live.

They discuss Jeff’s chat with the CMOs of the Carolina Panthers and LA Chargers, Sam’s panel on the international strategies for the NFL, NHL and MLB, some more of their day one highlights and their picks for day two. Then there’s time to make a run through some brief cuts from a few sessions, with Wimbledon CEO Sally Bolton (26.47), the Paris 2024 tech philosophy (30.19), how AWS is helping the Bundesliga tell stories (34.50), and the social media formats (40.31) to look out for during the ‘new normal’.

As the new National Football League (NFL) season kicks off, editor at large Eoin Connolly previews a very different campaign with Peter Schwartz, Sportico’s senior sports valuations and legal reporter.

In a detailed discussion, the pair assess the mood in the US ahead of the league’s start, Covid-19 safety measures, potential broadcast rights plans and social justice issues, as well as unpicking Sportico’s NFL franchise values.

Plus (42:36), Eoin speaks to Lu Bolden, chief revenue officer at Verimatrix, to find out how the digital security company is working to support rights holders, brands and broadcasters in protecting their content and data across a range of platforms without obstructing fan interactions.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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John Levy, the founder and chief executive of TheScore, tells SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly how the second most popular sports mobile app in North America is now the basis for a major new player in the emerging US sports betting marketplace.

Levy outlines how the company's history has led it to this point, explains its plans to build on its experience in individualisation and user experience, and argues that its strength is that it will always be a media company first.

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SportsPro managing director Nick Meacham heads up another entry from the SportsPro Insider Series, speaking to Rufus Hack, chief operating officer of golf's European Tour and Ryder Cup, and Charlotte Offord, UK senior marketing director at the NFL (4.04).

They lay out approaches to developing an international media strategy, discuss the balance between OTT and linear options, explain the importance of original digital content and best practice in pricing, and run through other topics from the NFL Game Pass to Golf TV and plenty in between.

In a session from the SportsPro Insider Series, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Octagon senior vice president Daniel Cohen and One Football commercial lead for OTT streaming Yannick Ramcke about the future of the sports rights market (4.50).

They discuss what sports media rights are going to be worth in the years ahead, the impact of Covid-19, digital disruption, competition for share of wallet, bundling and unbundling, and the prospects for rights holders and broadcasters alike.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Guy Voisin, director of cycling, Eurosport, and head of GCN Racing at Play Sports Network, and Mike Rich, Eurosport’s global head of sports marketing solutions.

In this Tour de France podcast special, the three examine what the event will be like for the pan-European broadcaster amid the current climate and what changes to this year’s schedule have triggered throughout the business of cycling.

Then (33:35), Eoin welcomes Darach McQuaid, chairman of GreenEdge Cycling, to hear about his experiences of a disrupted summer, his commercial hopes for the sport and expectations for the Mitchelton-Scott team at this year’s tour.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Paul Linden, founder and chief executive of specialist sports finance practice Endorser.

Linden explains how the company has built its business on providing debt-free financing to live events operators in return for commercial-related income and discusses the longer-term implications of recent events, including how finance departments can develop a stronger strategic influence within sports organisations.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is back on hosting duties for the latest podcast. He’s joined on this women’s soccer special by Lisa Baird, commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), to discuss the Challenge Cup, plans for growth, and ways to champion women’s sport.

Then (33:39), deputy editor Sam Carp speaks to Sarai Bareman, Fifa’s chief women’s football officer, about the journey to the 2023 Women’s World Cup and advancing the female game post-lockdown.

Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam talks to Iain Macintosh, director of narrative at The Athletic and founder of Muddy Knees Media, about what works and how in the sports podcast space (5.47).

Iain relives the Muddy Knees Media journey from the month to month origins of The Totally Football Show in 2017, explains why creating content for Eurosport and the BBC was critical to a diverse business model, and reveals why the time was right to sell to The Athletic this year.

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As the Uefa Champions League returns this week, SportsPro journalist Ed Dixon is on the line with Tiago Craveiro, chief executive of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), to break down how the country plans to stage European club’s soccer elite competition.

The pair also discuss the FPF’s wider activities (14:55), including how prioritising knowledge through launching the likes of Canal 11, and even its own university, has helped take Portuguese soccer to new heights.

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In another podcast from the SportsPro Insider Series, SportsPro events content manager Chris Stone talks to John Cave, vice president of information technology, football solutions at the National Football League (NFL).

They discuss how the league pivoted amid the Covid-19 pandemic to run a fully virtual NFL Draft, devising a concept, procuring equipment and securing networks to capture the drama from the homes of team officials, coaches and graduating prospects.

Digital editor Tom Bassam is off the subs bench and steps up as host for the latest SportsPro Podcast. He’s joined by deputy editor Sam Carp, the author of an in-depth report in the latest edition of SportsPro Magazine on what to expect from their in-venue experience post-Covid-19.

The pair breakdown the feature with expert insight from Populous’ Christopher Lee, Realife Tech’s Adam Goodyer, WaitTime’s Elizabeth Grabowski, and VenueNext’s Anthony Perez. (0:23)

Then, Sam speaks to Botan Osman, chief executive of Restrata, to find out how the technology and services company is working to help get UK fans safely back into stadia. (40:35)

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In the latest entry from the SportsPro Insider Series, Bleacher Report senior director of social strategy Julian Patterson talks to broadcaster Lynsey Hooper, co-founder of soccer podcast The Offside Rule.

Patterson reveals how Bleacher Report devises content plans for channels including Instagram favourite House of Highlights, how it measures and compares audiences, how social media is maturing as a sector, the NBA’s live return and more.

As MLB, the NBA and the NHL return in the US, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by CNBC sports business reporter Jabari Young to run the rule over the coronavirus challenges in the American industry.

They discuss a difficult start for MLB, the financial battle ahead for all the majors, the power structures between players and owners, and the emerging technological picture. They also talk about the leagues' responses to the Black Lives Matter protests (32.50) and how their efforts against systemic racism will be judged.

Then Major League Lacrosse commissioner Sandy Brown (44.25) is on hand to outline what it took to complete its shortened, pandemic-affected season.

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In the second part of a double feature, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Matchroom Sport group managing director and head of boxing Eddie Hearn.

Topics include plans for a behind-closed-doors Matchroom Fight Camp, the financial effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, taking events to Saudi Arabia, progress on an Anthony Joshua-Tyson Fury showdown, boxing governance, Hearn's own profile and ambitions in the sport, and the team building the future of the company.

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In the first of a two-part series, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Barry Hearn, founder and chairman of Matchroom Sport.

They discuss how the promoter has fared through the Covid-19 pandemic, from improvising through social distancing regulations with Darts at Home and behind-closed-doors snooker to establishing financial certainty, Matchroom's changing structure and content strategy, why owning events is better than renting them, and plenty more besides.

Barry's son, Matchroom Sport group managing director and boxing chief Eddie Hearn, will be the guest on the next edition of the SportsPro Podcast Extra.

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes back Matt Rogan, SportsPro’s senior contributor and co-founder of the data agency Two Circles, for the latest part of his series looking at how companies should react to Covid-19 and how to operate more effectively post-lockdown. Having given us his five brilliant basics, Matt discusses how forward-thinking executives are positioning their businesses to best deal with the challenges set to be faced in 2022 and beyond.

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In another podcast from the SportsPro Insider Series of virtual events, SportsPro managing director Nick Meacham talks to Albachiara founder Roger Mitchell and Kyle Bunch, the VP managing director of Global Sports Venture Studio at R/GA Ventures, about the fundamentals of the sports tech startup space. They discuss what startups can do to identify the right investors and why people and knowledge matter, how to assess valuations, why founders should focus on solutions more than products, why 2021 could be a huge year in the space after the challenges of 2020, which emerging sectors to watch, and much more.

The curtain should have just come down on this year’s Wimbledon Championships, but instead SW19 was left empty with the event falling foul of the coronavirus pandemic.

This week, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes the All England Lawn Tennis Club’s (AELTC) commercial and media director, Mick Desmond, and Alexandra Willis, head of communications, content and digital, to find out about the work done in response to the tournament’s cancellation.

With plans already underway for 2021, the three discuss what this year has meant for the AELTC and the wider game, as well as ways to find opportunity in such testing times.

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In what was scheduled to be the week of the 149th Open Championship, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Malcolm Booth, director of sales and marketing at golf's R&A.

They discuss the unique Open for the Ages project, which will collate archive footage and historical data of the greatest players of all time to create a broadcast event to replace the pandemic-hit major. Booth also talks about the R&A's operations in 2020, running the AIG Women's British Open next month, and the prospects for golf sponsorship in the year ahead.

As Test match cricket returns to England this week, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes Daily Telegraph journalist Tim Wigmore to discuss the new future facing cricket after its enforced hiatus. (02:23)

Eoin then speaks to Steve Elworthy, the former South Africa international and current director of special projects at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), to hear how the national governing body worked to get the game back on and what lies ahead for the rest of the year and into 2021. (30:59)

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SportsPro deputy editor Sam Carp talks to Johanna Faries, the commissioner of the Call of Duty League.

They discuss the challenges of building a franchise esports competition from one of the most popular video game series of all time, what Faries' has brought to the job from her years at the National Football League (NFL), and what has been learned from working through the Covid-19 pandemic.

And, as the only female commissioner of an esports league, Faries also talks about the path ahead for women in the sports industry.

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Ahead of the rescheduled Formula One season, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Peter Jones, business director of BlackBook Motorsport, to talk through what we can expect from a very different Formula One season in 2020. Discussion also turns to the wider implications facing series promoters and teams off the back of Covid-19. (01:36)

Then, deputy editor Sam Carp speaks to Frank Arthofer, Formula One’s global head of digital media and licensing, to find out how the sport has adapted its digital strategy during lockdown to ensure continued growth this season and further ahead. (32:48)

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In the latest cut from the SportsPro Insider Series, WWE executive vice president and global head of sales and partnerships John Brody tells SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly about how the leading force in sports entertainment works with its sponsors.

They discuss the adaptations made for closed door events, including WrestleMania, how WWE superstars play their part, and how the organisation's unique audience and approach to storytelling creates distinctive opportunities.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long welcome Matt Rogan, SportsPro’s senior contributor and co-founder of the data agency Two Circles, for the latest podcast. In this episode, the three look at what industry organisations can do to run better businesses during the coronavirus crisis and what action should be taken to best prepare for an uncertain future.

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In another podcast showcasing the best of the SportsPro Insider Series, Dustin Godsey, chief marketing officer at the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks, talks about the team's digital content strategy and how technology has shaped the fan experience at the Fiserv Forum.

He also lays out plans for the BucksPlay content hub, explains the strategic shift that followed the Covid-19 shutdown, and shares his thoughts on what an NBA game might look like with no fans in the arena.

The police killing of George Floyd has sparked passionate protests and debate over race, but also an appetite to ask some difficult questions regarding racism and inequality.

This week, Leon Mann, the founder of the Black Collective of Media in Sport (BCOMS), joins SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly on the latest podcast. Mann, who set up BCOMS to address the under-representation of black people in the industry, discusses what can be done within the sports sector to change its approach to diversity in order to ensure greater representation, as well as translating messages of support into tangible progress.

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In the first of a collection of podcasts highlighting the best of the SportsPro Insider Series of virtual events, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Real Madrid chief transformation officer Michael Sutherland and director of digital strategy Israel Garcia.

They discuss how the Spanish soccer giants switched up their activities during La Liga's Covid-19 shutdown, explore Real's first forays into esports, and outline the best approaches to digital transformation for any sports organisation.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp return this week with Simon Chadwick, professor of Eurasian Sport at Emlyon Business School, to talk through the key financial questions sport is facing from the Covid-19 fallout. (02:11)

Plus, senior reporter Steven Impey interviews Michael Yormark, president of Roc Nation’s international sports division, who reveals the agency’s plans for Siya Kolisi, South Africa’s World Cup-winning rugby union captain. (42:10)

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As The Sports Consultancy launches SEER, its new research and intelligence unit, its co-founder and managing director Angus Buchanan, associate director Sian Jenkins and director Matt Wilson join SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly to talk about the future relationship between host cities and event organisers.

They discuss the impact of Covid-19 on the events sector, the value of bringing event delivery in line with public health and social priorities, the role of women's sport, esports and cultural events in future hosting strategies, and the outlook for mega-events.

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With more sports properties pencilling in return dates, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly, digital editor Tom Bassam and deputy editor Sam Carp discuss who they believe are coming out the best - and worst - from the sports hiatus. (02:18)

Then, Eoin chats to Scott Tilton, chief executive and co-founder of sponsorship technology company Hookit, to hear his thoughts on the most notable uses of digital channels by brands and rights holders during the coronavirus lockdown, as well as future trends on social platforms. (32:24)

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Thimon de Jong – founder of Whetston Strategic Foresight, keynote speaker, university lecturer and specialist in future human behaviour, societal change and business strategy – about 'the temporary abnormal' and how much will really change as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. They also consider some of the other things promising to profoundly affect the future of the sports industry, from the balance of digital consumption to the rising influence of Generation Z.

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SportsPro shifts its focus to sport’s tentative return to action, as editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by the Athletic’s Matt Slater to talk about the steps the Premier League, and soccer as a whole, is taking to get back on the pitch. (02:09) Sam also provides an update on the US major leagues planning to resume play, including the latest from the National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Hockey League (NHL). (21:01) Then, digital editor Tom Bassam talks with Jamie Hindhaugh, chief operating officer at UK pay-TV’s BT Sport, who lifts the lid on the network’s Bundesliga coverage, as well as the broadcaster’s wider live sports strategy. (28:37)

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long talk to Joe Favorito, the hugely experienced sports marketing and communications consultant and Columbia University professor.

They discuss how the Covid-19 crisis has underlined the need for more coordinated leadership in US sport, efforts to restart sport and the long-term impact of the shutdown. Favorito, who has considerable experience advising the creators of sports-based film and entertainment, also gives his thoughts on the success and potential influence of The Last Dance, the ESPN and Netflix documentary on Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined on this week’s podcast by Charlie Greenwood, founder of sports tech hub Sports Loft, to talk through the current state of play for startups and what fledgling businesses need to do to survive and thrive during the Covid-19 health crisis and post-pandemic. (01:55)

Then (35:52), Michael is on the line with Tal Brown, chief executive and founder of Zone7, a data-driven artificial intelligence (AI) startup that supports athlete performance, to learn about his experiences over the last few months and hear about the future for sport tech startups.

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SportsPro deputy editor Sam Carp talks to Rachel Jacobson, the new president of the Drone Racing League.

They discuss the challenges of starting a job in the middle of a global pandemic, the future prospects for the league, female representation in leadership roles in sport, and the lessons of a long spell at the NBA, including as SVP of global partnerships, at a time when the league closed US$1 billion in sponsorship deals.

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This week, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes Alban Dechelotte, head of partnerships and business development EMEA at Riot Games, and Julian Tan, Formula One’s head of digital business initiatives and esports, to the podcast. (00:30) The pair air their thoughts on how coronavirus has reshaped the competitive gaming industry, how their organisations have reacted to the health crisis, and what long-term change can be excepted.

Plus (31:14), SportsPro journalist Ed Dixon speaks with John Clarke, chief executive of gaming operator Gfinity, who discusses the wider implications facing the industry due to Coivd-19, with the ePremier League, Virtual Grands Prix, the role of broadcasters, and athlete involvement all covered.

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In the latest SportsPro Podcast Extra, SportsPro deputy editor Sam Carp talks to Alexandra Armas, the chief executive of the Ladies' European Tour (LET).

They discuss the many challenges of keeping the tour going through the coronavirus crisis, with the calendar on pause until July and players and promoters to support in the meantime. Also on the agenda are the LET's joint venture with the LPGA, the future of golf governance, and protecting women's sport through the wider shutdown.

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined by Richard Gillis, the founder of Unofficial Partner, (06:59) to discuss the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on the sports agency business, including its current role in the industry and what change could be afoot once the lockdown lifts.

Then (35:55), Lenah Ueltzen-Gabell, Wasserman’s managing director for EMEA, tells deputy editor Sam Carp how the agency has responded to the Covid-19 health crisis, and shares some of the advice it has been offering its clients across the sports sector.

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In the latest edition of the SportsPro Podcast Extra, editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Gareth Balch, co-founder and chief executive of data-driven agency Two Circles.

They discuss research into the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic, what to make of fan behaviour during sport's shutdown, the challenges of a packed 2021, and what the future holds for Two Circles itself after investment from Bruin Sports Capital.

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam welcome Rob Koehler, Global Athlete (GA) director general, and Callum Skinner, its athlete lead, for an in-depth discussion on how Tokyo 2020 hopefuls are dealing with the Games' postponement, as well as the wider ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic. Talk also turns to what athlete-driven change GA wants to see implemented by the International Olympic Committee, (IOC) and other organisations, during a crisis that has prevented sports’ star attractions from taking centre stage. Music: Surf Inspector by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4447-surf-inspector

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In the first edition of the SportsPro Podcast Extra series, editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to one-time colleague Adam Fraser, now global chief executive of Laureus Sport for Good. They discuss how the sport for development sector can cope during the Covid-19 crisis and what sports organisations and brands need to understand if they want to help make a real difference.

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SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and deputy editor Sam Carp are joined by the Press Association’s chief sports reporter Jamie Gardner to assess the challenges ahead for sports following the mass cancellations of events worldwide due to the coronavirus pandemic. (03:34)

Plus, the International Paralympic Committee’s president, Andrew Parsons, is on the line from Brazil to talk through the organisation’s new plans for the Paralympic Games following the postponement of Tokyo 2020 until next summer. (29:41)

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After the Easter break, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly returns this week to speak with Kindred Group’s UK general manager Neil Banbury on how the gambling sector is adapting during the ongoing pandemic in order to keep offering new markets despite the decimated sporting calendar. (04:21)

Neil, who oversees Kindred brands such as 32Red and Unibet, also discusses the renewed importance of esports and virtual sports for betting firms, the importance of responsible gambling in the current climate, and factoring in the return of live sport to the industry's future business modeling.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam talk to OneFootball head of OTT and sports business blogger Yannick Ramcke about the impact of the live events shutdown on the broadcast sector, asking how rights relationships and value can be protected and how effective filler efforts like esports and archive or original content will be. (01:41)

Then SportsPro senior writer Steven Impey speaks with Yiannis Exarchos, chief executive of Olympic Broadcasting Services, about the implications of the Tokyo 2020 delay, the Olympic Channel's revised plans for the months ahead, and the accelerated adoption of remote production and collaboration. (38:08)

This week, editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam welcome Lisa Parfitt, managing director of Engine Sport, back to the pod to get her insight on the impact the coronavirus pandemic is having on commercial conversations in sports marketing (02:11).

Next, Joel Seymour-Hyde, managing director of Octagon UK, gives his thoughts on how sponsorship has been affected and can adapt in the wake of the global health crisis (27:33).

In the final part, Lisa discusses the potential risks facing women’s sport as rights holders and brands cut back on their investments as Covid-19 takes hold (55:51).

Recorded before the postponement of Tokyo 2020 was confirmed, the New York Times’ sports news correspondent Tariq Panja joins editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long to discuss the latest impact of the coronavirus pandemic (02:44).

Then, James Earl, partner at Fladgate LLP, is on to give a legal perspective regarding the challenges being faced by the mass cancellations across sports (27:21).

In part three, (48:12) Eoin, Mike and Tariq look at the bigger picture within the sports industry as the Covid-19 outbreak evolves.

After an alarming, unprecedented week for sport and society, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by editorial director Michael Long and deputy editor Sam Carp to reflect on a spate of cancellations and postponements, including a shift for the Uefa European Championship from 2020 to 2021. (01.25)

Then, JTA founder Jon Tibbs, who has provided communications consultancy to major sports organisations around the world, breaks down the challenge of providing clear, practical and appropriate messages in a fast-moving crisis. (23.41)

And as preparations continue amid all this for the Olympic Games, AP correspondent and sports writer Stephen Wade is on the line from Tokyo to discuss the situation on the ground there. (43.05)

With Formula One returning this weekend, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long discuss what the new season has in store ahead of the opening race in Melbourne (1:39).

Nielsen Sports' senior vice president of global motorsport, Nigel Geach, then discusses how Formula One is shaping up off the track as Liberty Media enters its fourth year at the helm (17:53).

Plus, deputy editor Sam Carp catches up with W Series founder and chief executive Catherine Bond Muir to ask what the future holds for the all-female single seater motor racing championship (46:32).

As the coronavirus continues to dominate the headlines, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly, digital editor Tom Bassam and editorial director Michael Long discuss the extent of the impact the outbreak is having on the sports calendar so far (1:22).

Conversation then moves to DAZN's plans to expand to more than 200 territories later this year, while using its global boxing rights content to build out its offering (14:10).

Monumental Sports & Entertainment's SVP of strategic initiatives, Zach Leonsis, is on for an in-depth discussion about its plans ahead (20:33).

Plus, WSC Sports' Aviv Arnon offers insight into why Israel is enjoying a sports tech boom (52:02).

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam return from OTT Summit USA and discuss the key takeaways from Atlanta (0:43).

The conversation then turns to Turner Sports' place in the changing US media landscape in an interview with the broadcaster's president Lenny Daniels (21:51).

Plus, deputy editor Sam Carp talks to Nashville SC boss Ian Ayre ahead of the club's MLS debut (33:47).

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly meets in Paris with Brett Gosper, the long-serving chief executive of World Rugby.

There is plenty to discuss, from the lessons of the Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup and the shift in mindset to France, to the spectre of venture capital, the power of the Olympics, addressing neglect in the women's game, and the formats of the future.

As the Premier League's Richard Masters confirms an interest in exploring an OTT service, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to The Athletic's Matt Slater about how and when that digital transition might begin. With the league's lucrative rights sales process already bearing fruit for the next cycle, clubs will want to be sure any direct-to-consumer offering can pay off.

Then, speaking at Global Sports Week in Paris, Dow's Nicoletta Piccolrovazzi outlines the chemical giant's plans to help Olympic organisers and international federations improve their sustainability practices so they can do their environmental duty and retain the support of younger groups.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly, editorial director Michael Long and deputy editor Sam Carp look back on a varied week of sports industry stories - including the biggest, Super Bowl LIV. They also discuss a new global proposal in golf, Richard McLaren's return at the IWF, Atletico Madrid's Canadian investment and what Disney's Secret Cinema deal could mean for sport.

Then, with issue 108 of SportsPro back from the printers, they look at some of the big topics in the latest edition of the magazine, including how sport has shaped AI, and creative capital from City Football Group to essential tech and much more.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Pranav Soneji, founder and director of Livewire Sport, about the digital content agency's Diversity in Digital Mentoring scheme and the need for a broader range of voices in the industry.

Soneji - a former BBC journalist who now works with partners including the Premier League, F1 and the NFL - highlights the need to create pathways for people from minority ethnic backgrounds in the UK, people with disabilities, those from underprivileged beginnings and those living beyond major sports industry centres like London. He discusses how his own experience has shaped his plans for the programme, the effects of phenomena like studied informality, and why diversity will lead to better quality work.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly heads across the Channel to talk to Brice Lefevre, the Paris GM for Adidas. They discuss the sportswear giant's plans to exploit a big few years for sport in the French capital leading up to the 2024 Olympics, how it aims to reflect rapid local changes, and why it is focusing key marketing efforts on a handful of major global cities.

Then SportsPro senior reporter Steven Impey speaks to Kiswe Mobile president and chief executive Mike Schabel about how the startup is creating new kinds of digital viewing experiences for clients including the NBA, and how evolving audience habits are only now being addressed.

SportsPro editorial director Michael Long and editor at large Eoin Connolly speak to Lucas von Cranach, founder and chief executive of digital soccer media company OneFootball.

They discuss OneFootball's journey since 2008, which has seen it serve as an aggregator of club-focused content and more recently move into live coverage of pay-per-view games. There's also time to take in the state of the OTT sector, the company's understanding of its audience and approach to pricing, and why when it comes to digital media, it's better to be "a big boat on a small river than a small boat on a big river".

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long reconvene for the first podcast of the year to look at some of the trends bubbling under the biggest stories of 2020.

On the agenda: whether recent developments in Australia will inspire a different approach to climate responsibility, how mega-events like Euro 2020 and the Tokyo Olympics will reorder and redefine host cities, what role venture capital will play in organised sport, and how Major League Baseball's tense negotiations with Minor League Baseball have become emblematic of a more stratified industry.

There's also time to discuss how women's sports bodies will seek to maintain momentum, and how sport might react to changing dynamics in fan culture.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined on the line by digital editor Tom Bassam and senior writer Sam Carp to discuss just some of what made 2019 such an extraordinary year in the business of sport.

They look back on a dramatic July day of channel-hopping as the Cricket World Cup final and Wimbledon gripped London; intriguing moves by DAZN, Discovery and Amazon; the Olympics cosying up with Airbnb; sport's relationship with big government; radical thinking around competitions and formats; and plenty more besides.

Elsewhere on a bumper festive edition of the podcast, Engine Sport managing director Lisa Parfitt (38.49) drops by to talk through another year of significant progress in women's sport, lays out the opportunities for partners, and considers how the industry itself can do better at retaining female talent.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long present another pair of conversations from the SportsPro OTT Summit that reflect on the latest developments in digital broadcasting and shifts in viewer behaviour. First up, Gareth Capon (5.05), chief executive of cloud video production company Grabyo, discusses the findings of the Grabyo Global Video Trends Report and what they mean for the future of OTT services, pay-TV, and free-to-air outlets across traditional and digital platforms. He also talks about generational viewing habits, the value of live sport, the power of mobile production and the evolution of Grabyo itself. Then Carlo De Marchis (27.08), group chief evangelist at sports and entertainment tech provider Deltatre, shares his thoughts on what a move from rights sales to direct to consumer will mean for the philosophy of the sports business, the importance of flexibility in attracting and retaining viewers, and how to embrace innovation in products, services and outlook.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to Dan Porter, the forthright and quotable founder and chief executive of Overtime, about how the youth-focused digital sports network grew an audience of millions and why that audience won't be signing up for subscription channels any time soon.

Speaking in Madrid during the SportsPro OTT Summit, Porter makes the case for a more participative approach to media, explains why he thinks a wider range of options are weakening young fans' ties to traditional sport, and lays out his plans to turn the Overtime project and community into something very big.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined on the line by Matt Slater, football news and investigations reporter at The Athletic.

In a week that could offer a glimpse of club soccer's future, they discuss tech giant Amazon's Premier League broadcast debut and the implications of its biggest technical challenge in live sport so far. And after the shock resignation of incoming chief executive David Pemsel, they ask who England's top flight might look to next for leadership.

There's also time to reflect on the latest developments in the long-running Russian doping saga, with WADA's executive committee set to meet in Lausanne next week to consider a four-year ban from elite sport for the country after another series of transgressions.

As the SportsPro OTT Summit comes to an end in Madrid, editor at large Eoin Connolly and editorial director Michael Long are joined by Seven League consulting partner Charlie Beall and Maria Rua Aguete, executive director at IHS Markit.

The panel pick out their highlights and lessons from two days of absorbing discussion on digital broadcasting and sport, from the WWE’s success in creating a content universe to the threat of piracy, why Netflix and Spotify are different, the meaning of the attention swarm, TikTok, 5G, whether Gen Z will pay for OTT and everything to come in 2020.

SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam talks to Blake Lawrence, the co-founder and chief executive of Opendorse, to find out about the platform's plans in athlete marketing and run through some best practice in social media.

The average athlete shares six pieces of social content a month, while the average team posts 30 times a day with one in three of those featuring a sponsor, so are brands allocating their resources properly? How do athletes avoid security risks and classic [insert sponsor here] errors? And what might changing rules in US college sports mean for US student-athletes?

Rugby World Cup 2019 is over, with Siya Kolisi's South Africa seeing off England to win the title for a third time.

Charlie McEwen, the former Lions COO now working with some of the sport's big brands as CEO of rugby at CSM Sport and Entertainment, steps off a plane from Tokyo to share his thoughts on the tournament and the future direction of the game with SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly (2.57). Venture capital, the role of sevens, and the innovative Rugby League World Cup format are all up for discussion.

Then, after Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes confirmed another Formula One world title in the US, Black Book of Motorsport director Peter Jones returns (35.02) to discuss a new package of rules aimed at making the blue-riband racing championship more competitive from 2021, and also casts an early eye over the sale of IndyCar.

After a hectic few sports industry weeks, SportsPro editorial director Michael Long rejoins editor at large Eoin Connolly on a rapid-fire pod to catch up on a few stories that might have been buried beneath the headlines, but should be of real interest and consequence to those in the business.

There's just about time to rattle through Manchester City and Nestle's vegan opportunism, the NFL's adventures in audio, the WTA in Shenzhen and the ATP's new Italian leader, Sourav Ganguly's arrival as BCCI president, OTT women's soccer service Wnited and the launch of Apple TV+.

To mark the launch of 'Content is Queen: Digital Lessons from Women's Sport' - a new whitepaper from SportsPro and Imagen - editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by an expert panel to discuss how new media and best practice are helping to grow audiences across a range of female disciplines.

Alexandra Willis, the head of communications, content and digital at the AELTC, International Netball Federation chief executive Clare Briegal and Imagen's Kerry Freeman discuss the importance of a comprehensive approach to content distribution, what goes into a careful and data-led strategy, and what excites them about the future in women's sport.

SportsPro senior reporter Steve Impey returns from a stint in Japan to update editor at large Eoin Connolly and senior writer Sam Carp on the goings-on at the Rugby World Cup (15.44). There's also time to discuss the implications of Eliud Kipchoge's two-hour marathon breakthrough and the NBA's communications breakdown in China.

Then IBB Polonia chief executive Bartek Łuszcz and consultant Alex Inglot - moonlighting from his role as an ATP Tour board member - reveal how England's first entrants in Europe's Volleyball Champions League are rewriting the rulebook for smaller sports clubs (31.53). From signing superstar players to streaming matches in Poland and maximising the potential of their events, they are using every available asset to break out of their environment and take their sport with them in the UK.

Between empty seats, a new doping scandal and some new stars, the World Athletics Championships in Doha presented a whole range of hot topics. Having covered the event on the ground, AP global sports correspondent Rob Harris (3.18) returns to the pod to share his thoughts on where it all leaves Qatar's hosting strategy going into the Fifa World Cup, inspects the fallout of Alberto Salazar's ban, and considers the future of the newly renamed World Athletics.

Then ECB director of women's cricket Clare Connor (23.54) outlines a new long-term project to transform the sport for women and girls, explaining how the rush of a 2017 World Cup win became the reality of building for the future.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly meets with Lucien Boyer (4.58) - the former global president of Havas Sport and Entertainment and former CMO of Vivendi - to talk about his new Global Sports Week venture in Paris and how a run of major events will move France to the centre of the sports industry. He also discusses why sport needs to stop building its content world around live rights and start learning from entertainment media about nurturing IP and taking control of storytelling.

And with the Rugby World Cup well underway, Steven Impey - on the ground in Japan for the opening weeks of the tournament - gets World Rugby chief marketing officer Marissa Pace (47.04) on the line to ask her about the governing body's positioning and digital content strategy, from its activities in Asia to its work with TikTok.

As the Rugby World Cup arrives in Japan, editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes back Richard Gillis, the former SportsPro columnist, sometime agency operator, occasional Irish Times writer, and host of the Unofficial Partner podcast. On the agenda: how does sponsorship creative comes together around global competitions? What does Japan mean to the future of the tournament? How do rugby's touring culture and big eventers combine to deliver crowds? And will CVC and venture capital change union forever?

There's then time to revisit an interview from earlier in 2019 with World Rugby COO and head of Rugby World Cup Alan Gilpin, who discusses the logistical challenges and the commercial and sporting opportunities of taking the event to Asia for the first time.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly revisits another session from the Fan Conference, where he is joined by Tottenham Hotspur head of partnerships Fran Jones, Huddersfield Town commercial director Sean Jarvis, and Sponsor.Online managing partner Maximillian von Portatius to talk about disruption in soccer sponsorship.

On the agenda: Spurs' search for a naming rights partner at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, getting Beavertown beer in that new ground, Huddersfield's mischievous activation of their shirt sponsorship deal with bookmaker Paddy Power, what brings brands and teams together, and plenty more besides.

The inaugural SportsPro Fan Conference ends with The Big Debate at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by Whistle's international managing director Jeff Nathenson, Copa90 chief business officer James Kirkham and sports consultant Drew Barrand to talk about toxicity in social media, the points where brands and hardcore supporters meet, bringing fans on the journey to new stadiums, and why anyone who's good at their job in sports media needs to know about KSI v Logan Paul II.

With the bars open in north London you can expect some strong opinions, and some strong language.

With November's P1 AquaX World Championship in the Bahamas on the horizon, SportsPro senior writer Sam Carp is joined on a special edition of the SportsPro Podcast by Powerboat P1 chief executive Azam Rangoonwala.

An engineering graduate and former racer himself, Rangoonwala dials in from the global marine motorsport promoter's international racing headquarters in Orlando to discuss the development of P1's flagship series and its plans to expand in the future.

As the Ashes summer nears its end, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly heads to the Kia Oval to talk to cricket legend Shane Warne.

The former Australia leg-spinner talks about his role with the Indian Premier League's Rajasthan Royals, and how franchise cricket has changed the job of a professional player on and off the field. He also discusses The Hundred and its tactical secrets, as he prepares to join the Lord's franchise as head coach, and shares his thoughts on preserving the historic Test format.

There's then time to revisit the Black Book Motorsport Forum, and hear the thoughts of senior figures from three leading teams about their challenges in 2019. M-Sport WRC team principal Rich Millener, Nissan global motorsport director Michael Carcamo and Yan Lefort, commercial director at Sauber Group for the Alfa Romeo Racing F1 Team, join the conversation.

In a briefer edition of the SportsPro Podcast, editor at large Eoin Connolly speaks to Riot Games' Alban Dechelotte and the Kellogg Company's Dominik Schafhaupt to find out what Pringles' sponsorship of the League of Legends European Championship tells us about what brands are doing in esports.

How does a non-endemic sponsor prepare to engage with the esports community? How can partners spread their activities across groups of gamers and viewers? What can companies do to connect with a more marketing-savvy audience? And why is it that relevance and not breakthrough is what counts in this space?

SportsPro has released its tenth annual list of the world's 50 most marketable athletes, with tennis star Naomi Osaka heading the class of 2019. Editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to editorial director Michael Long about what the feature is intended to accomplish, its unique criteria, how it has changed to reflect the media marketplace and the interests of brands, and the role of social data partner Hookit in compiling it.

Then it's over to SportsPro HQ where digital editor Tom Bassam and senior writer Sam Carp are on hand to talk through some of the themes that emerge from this year's edition.

What puts Osaka on top? How are brands becoming more comfortable with outspoken ambassadors like Megan Rapinoe? What magnetises people to young talents like Zion Williamson, Jofra Archer and Chloe Kim, or keeps them interested in established megastars like Stephen Curry? How are the stories of marketable athletes changing in their detail and range, and what do brands need to be aware of before they sign?

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by editorial director Michael Long to discuss Disney's aggressively priced bundle for Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu. The US streaming race, rebundling, and the concept of added-value membership packages - which could, in sport, mean pricing in tickets or other experiences - are all on the table in the OTT era.

Then, as Anthony Joshua prepares to head to Saudi Arabia to retrieve his world heavyweight boxing titles from Andy Ruiz, there's a conversation about the pattern emerging for how events will be promoted in the controversial kingdom, and a brief reflection on the ongoing beoutQ dispute. And to coincide with Women in Sport Week on the SportsPro website, there's an interview with Eleven Sports chief operating officer Anouk Mertens.

As a new European club soccer season dawns, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and senior writer Sam Carp are joined by a rotating cast of writers and guests at HQ, with senior reporter Steven Impey making his pod debut to detail La Liga’s quest for a UK rights partner, and digital editor Tom Bassam discussing the Bundesliga and his trip to the German Super Cup. The Premier League is also back, while the British launch of The Athletic and a change in strategy for Otro provide food for thought on what fans will pay for in the digital space.

Then Black Book of Motorsport director Peter Jones drops in to discuss this month’s Black Book Motorsport Forum, a busy 2019 in racing with the launch of the W Series, and Formula One’s fortunes as it hits a mid-season break.

With a new Premier League soccer season on the horizon, SportsPro digital editor Tom Bassam talks to Arsenal head of content Tom Hines and Southampton head of content and digital Luke Nicholson about the art of club storytelling.

How does a team create a consistent, compelling media presence? How do you match the right output to the right digital channels? How do you ensure best practice across an editorial operation and communicate what matters throughout the whole organisation? And how do you make all that count for sponsors and partners?

Fresh from England's first ever ICC Men's Cricket World Cup title, England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive Tom Harrison speaks to SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly about his reaction to an incredible final, the lessons of a UK free-to-air return, his reflections on the tournament and what's next for a team now enjoying their breakout moment.

Also on the agenda: an Ashes summer for England's men and women; the latest on preparations for a radical and divisive new competition in The Hundred; the ECB's plans to grow the sport by embracing younger and more diverse audiences; what media contracts really tell us; and why the world champions celebrated at a school skills event at the Oval, rather than on the back of an open-top bus.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly, digital editor Tom Bassam and senior writer Sam Carp catch their breath just long enough to look back on an incredibly dramatic and impossible tight finale at Lord's, where England snuck past New Zealand to win the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup for the first time.

They also review the seven-week tournament, asking what could be learned from Sky Sports' late deal to bring the final to Channel 4, how far the event broke out beyond cricket audiences in the UK and elsewhere, and what changes might take the competition forward in the next edition in India in 2023.

There's time to take in news of a new NBA CMO from the social video space, and a new women’s sports marketing firm from Wasserman, The Collective. Then the team reflect on the rest of split-screen Sunday, which saw UK viewers in particular scrambling to watch the cricket, the F1 British Grand Prix and an epic Wimbledon men's singles tennis final at the same time. What, if anything, can broadcasters and event organisers do to enhance a multi-sport, multi-screen experience?

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long reconvene to review the Fifa Women's World Cup. After a tournament that represented a huge cultural moment, from Megan Rapinoe and the USWNT to a big TV breakthrough everywhere, where does women's soccer go next? How will commercial and development aims best be served?

Then, as Mediapro is linked with a new TV channel partnership with Italian soccer's Serie A and Lagardère Sports with a takeover by Wasserman Media Group, there is some time to reflect on where the agency sector is going. Meanwhile, there's also a chance to discuss a new direction for the flagship SportsPro magazine.

With the New York Yankees having enjoyed two wins over the Boston Red Sox, SportsPro senior writer Sam Carp returns from Stratford to tell editor at large Eoin Connolly about his impressions of the first ever MLB London Series. On the agenda: what can be done differently next year, what lessons can be learned from the NFL, and just why the two games at the London Stadium were so high-scoring.

Then, as the debate over the UK media impact of the Fifa Women's World Cup and ICC Men's Cricket World Cup continues, there's time to discuss free-to-air strategies in the digital age, and to dip into the Grabyo Global Video Trends Report for some insights into viewer tastes and device use.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long discuss a big week in Olympic circles, with Milan-Cortina awarded the 2026 Winter Games, a new Olympic House inaugurated in Lausanne, a unique deal signed with Coca-Cola and Mengniu for a reported US$3 billion, and more besides.

Then, with the Championships at Wimbledon a few days away, the AELTC's James Ralley and Alexandra Willis explain how the most prestigious tournament in tennis stays relevant in the global 21st century media landscape, from new content plans to the inaugural edition of Wimbledon Rematch, an immersive theatrical experience taking fans back to 1980.

As the banned former Uefa president Michel Platini faces police questioning in France, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long discuss the latest developments in the ongoing saga around Qatar 2022, corruption allegations, Fifa and world soccer.

There's also time to consider a crowded summer soccer calendar, with the Copa America, Concacaf Gold Cup and Africa Cup of Nations colliding with the Fifa Women's World Cup, and to look into recent IPOs for Wanda Sports and the IMG and UFC owner Endeavor.

Meanwhile, with the Nations League Finals marking the start of the Chinese payment giant's eight-year sponsorship of Uefa, Alipay's Rita Liu (26.58) explains the rationale behind the partnership, and outlines what to expect from the company's international strategy in sport.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly welcomes back print editor Michael Long from his travels to discuss some first impressions of the Fifa Women's World Cup in France, the impact of the Toronto Raptors' NBA Finals run in Canada, and the implications of the IAAF's move to rebrand as World Athletics.

Then we hear from Sanjay Patel (24.03), managing director of the England and Wales Cricket Board's divisive new tournament, The Hundred. He explains why the ECB felt it had to respond to changes in fan behaviour and the competition for attention, how he hopes the new format can appeal to a new audience, and how The Hundred's commercial structure will create a different set of opportunities for brands.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly heads back to the office to chat to senior writer Sam Carp about the imminent Fifa Women's World Cup (16.45), with brands, broadcasters and fans promising to mass behind the competition as never before. Fifa head of women's football Sarai Bareman (31.47) is also on the line with her thoughts on the weeks ahead in France, and just what it is that is driving the commercial breakthrough in women's sport.

There's also time to talk through a week of massive events elsewhere in the world of sport, from the impact on DAZN and the rest of the fight game of Anthony Joshua's shock loss to Andy Ruiz in New York, to Uefa's twin club finals and its Nations League bow in Portugal, and the prospect of a Fifa Club World Cup in Qatar.

The 2019 ICC Men's Cricket Cup is here, with ten teams heading to England and Wales for 48 games across six weeks until the middle of July. SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly presents a special edition of the podcast looking at some of the work that has gone into putting together one of the biggest events of the year.

First up is Cricket World Cup 2019 managing director Steve Elworthy (3.47), the former South Africa international running his sixth global ICC event but taking charge of the big one for the first time. He talks about the final days of preparation, the task of managing an expanded team, how the tournament can capture the public imagination and his ambitions for the future.

Then, with England heading into the tournament as favourites for a first title, ECB head of marketing Jenny Smith (41.41) talks about how the national body is trying to connect with younger fans before a pivotal 2020 season. And Surrey chief executive Richard Gould (60.11) reveals what The Oval expects from its host venue duties this summer ahead of the opener between England and South Africa.

Former British sports minister Tracey Crouch MP joins SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly to share her thoughts on the industry.

Crouch, who has taken on a role as a senior adviser to London-based communications agency The Playbook, explains why her objection to a delay on restrictions on fixed-odds betting terminals on UK high streets led her to resign her post, and gives her wider views on the role of gambling in British sport. She also recalls her experiences of working in government, from the reality of her remit to the challenges of securing funding in an era of austerity, and the likely impact of Brexit on sport.

And as a landmark decade of major events continues in the UK, she discusses the evolution of the sports business, the role of the public sector, the need for governance reform to reflect challenges like athlete safety, and the one sports job she would take if offered.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly presents a series of interviews recorded during SportsPro Live 2019 at The O2.

Sean Bratches, the managing director of commercial operations at Formula One, talks about the series' calendar, the OTT service F1TV, and a partnership with movie star Will Smith's Westbrook Studios. (5.18)

Neil Hopkins, global head of strategy at M&C Saatchi Sport and Entertainment, discusses changes in the media landscape and the future of sports sponsorship. (10.41)

Michael Prindiville, chief executive of Philadelphia 76ers-owned esports team Dignitas, gives his thoughts on the franchise's plans, the convergence of traditional sports and professional gaming, and the impact of Google Stadia. (21.10)

And we hear from Premier League-winning Leicester City defender Christian Fuchs, founder of Fifa esports team No Fuchs Given, about how he got into the space and whether he expects other professional athletes to follow him. (28.24)

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam wrap up two days of insights and new ideas at SportsPro Live 2019, discussing lessons learned where technology meets the sports business with Digital Sport editor Chris McMullin.

SportsPro Live host and Sky Sports presenter Adam Leventhal (15:10) shares his thoughts; Sports Innovation Lab co-founders Angela Ruggiero and Josh Walker (20:00) explain how fandom has changed forever and what Avengers Endgame can teach the sports industry; and Seven League chief executive Richard Ayers (27:32) works through the nuts and bolts of digital transformation.

Finally, there's talk from the stage as Simon Wear (37:18), whose Play Sports Group was recently acquired by Discovery, reveals how digital communities are built, why publishers got into OTT, and plans for a unique global cycling network.

With the SportsPro team in full event mode delivering the biggest ever edition of SportsPro Live at The O2, editor at large Eoin Connolly presents two recent interviews from opposite sides of the globe.

First up, tennis: Wimbledon commercial and media director Mick Desmond discusses the grass-court Grand Slam's first Asian sponsorship deal with smartphone brand Oppo, its plans in China and India, improvements to SW19 including a roof and hospitality suites at No1 Court, the future of its sponsorship strategy and more.

Then, speaking to the team at SportsPro OTT Asia, Optus head of television and content Corin Dimopoulos talks about the lessons the Australian telco learned from a glitchy Fifa World Cup last year, the opportunities arising from the women's tournament this summer, distribution plans for the Premier League and Uefa Champions League, and the 5G future of OTT.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long return to talk through the latest developments in the sports industry, including the signature partnership between NBC Universal and the organisers of the LA 2028 Olympics to sell commercial partnerships in the US around the next four Games.

Meanwhile, senior writer Sam Carp is joined at the SportsPro offices by the organisers of two global events taking place in England. Netball World Cup event director Lindsay Impett and Jon Dutton, chief executive of the Rugby League World Cup in 2021, reveal the details of a unique collaboration between their two tournaments to help grow reach and share best practice.

SportsPro print editor Michael Long returns to reveal all to editor at large Eoin Connolly about his recent trip to Japan, taking the pulse of the sports industry there ahead of the Rugby World Cup this year and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. There's the latest on what the local organising committees for both of those events are thinking, and a sense from MMA's ONE Championship of what it takes to make a mark in the country.

Meanwhile, in an interview from SportsPro OTT Asia in Singapore, Rakuten's Laura Li talks about the Japanese ecommerce giant's partnerships with the likes of the NBA and how OTT video and data are being filtered through its ecosystem.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly talks to Simon Dent, the former lawyer and soccer agent turned founder of BT Sport Industry Award-nominated creative agency Dark Horses.

Speaking at the company's London offices, Dent discusses the gap he saw for more creatively minded work in sports sponsorship and marketing campaigns, and how he partnered up with Lucky Generals to fill it. He also reveals why he values being surrounded by smarter people, and how Dark Horses plans to maintain its underdog streak, and talks about the growth to be had for brands in women's sport and the search for new audiences.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and digital editor Tom Bassam shake off the jet-lag and reflect on the inaugural SportsPro OTT Summit Asia, discussing everything from Manchester City's All or Nothing series on Amazon, to DDMC Fortis' strategy for soccer across the continent, Kayo Sports' unique entry into the Australian market, and how Rakuten is using sport to bring people into its ecommerce ecosystem.

Then there is time to listen in on one of the sessions from the Pan Pacific in Singapore, as Picture Board founder Unmish Parthasarathi asks Joyee Biswas, Facebook's head of sports partnerships for the APAC region, about the social media giant's experiments with the Premier League, La Liga and the IPL, different visions for video on Facebook Watch and Instagram, and its expectations for VR with Oculus.

SportsPro senior writer Sam Carp and digital editor Tom Bassam join editor at large Eoin Connolly to discuss the latest machinations in rugby union, as Infront, CVC and IMG bid to buy stakes in a new World Rugby competition and the Six Nations respectively, and the return of Formula One - which marks a controversial comeback for tobacco sponsors.

There are reflections on a week of big decisions in international soccer - with plans advancing for a two-country Copa America in 2020, expanded Club World Cup in 2021, a 48-team World Cup in 2022, and nine expressions of interest in the 2023 Women's World Cup. In cycling, meanwhile, Ineos founder Jim Ratcliffe's takeover of Team Sky is also on the agenda.

Finally, Vitality Programme managing director Nick Read lays out the company's sports sponsorship strategy, working with the likes of England Netball, Arsenal and Parkrun, and explains how it serves its goals in the health and life insurance sector.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is back at headquarters to catch up with senior writer Sam Carp, freshly returned from a stint at Sportel Asia in Macau.

On the agenda: the efforts of brands like Nike, Visa and Adidas to capitalise on the momentum of women's soccer; Fifa's push to expand its 2022 World Cup to 48 teams across the Gulf; and the players' council intrigue to oust well-regarded ATP president Chris Kermode.

There's also time to discuss Sky Sports' Comcast-era crossovers with NBC, and the diverse broadcast markets of Asia, while DDMC Fortis chief executive Patrick Murphy lays out plans for the agency's eight-year rights partnership with the Asian Football Confederation.

As International Women's Day approaches, SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly gets the thoughts of two female leaders about how the sports industry can properly embrace diversity across the board.

First, with the Netball World Cup set to hit Liverpool in July, England Netball chief executive Joanna Adams discusses how the sport has built momentum through participation, elite performance and commercial development, professionalising at the top end while improving access at the same time. She also gives her views on how to create more and better opportunities for young women in the business of sport.

Then Rebecca Smith, the former Fifa World Player of the Year nominee, reveals what she hopes to achieve in her new role as global executive director of the women’s game at soccer fan platform Copa90. With the Fifa Women's World Cup coming up in France, she argues that it is time for the industry to look beyond the tentpole events to the wealth of stories and personalities throughout the game.

SportsPro print editor Michael Long rejoins editor at large Eoin Connolly to discuss another sports industry week, from media moves by Twitch and La Liga to an altogether different set of moves at the Olympics, as the organisers of Paris 2024 confirm plans to give breakdancing a Games debut.

Then, as the England and Wales Cricket Board confirms the playing conditions for The Hundred, there's a conversation about the challenges rights holders will face in creating bespoke new formats. And with less than 100 days to go until the Cricket World Cup, Hublot chief executive Ricardo Guadalupe runs over the Swiss watchmaker's plans for its sponsorship of the event.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly grabs a barista coffee in the team's smart new offices in London's Victoria and catches up on the week's events with SportsPro senior writer Sam Carp, back on the pod to discuss Don Garber's contract extension in MLS, Shaun Harvey's departure from the EFL, fast fashion and the jerseys of the future.

The two also look at the NBA's African venture with Fiba, the implications of Tyson Fury's TV deal with ESPN for heavyweight boxing and heavyweight media, and what exactly it is that Intel is working on with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City.

Meanwhile, Olympic champion cyclist Callum Skinner explains the inspiration for advocacy group Global Athlete, launched in London in February, and lays out his hopes for bringing athletes' interests to the heart of sports decision-making.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long discuss another full week in the sports industry action, covering everything from the IOC moving house and a united Korean Olympic bid to a mega-merger in the world of venue management.

They also take in the news that BeIN has created another challenge for Formula One by backing out of bidding for TV rights in the Middle East, and speculate on what might be involved in a DAZN spending spree.

Meanwhile, with Uefa president Alexander Ceferin re-elected for a second term and his unopposed Fifa counterpart Gianni Infantino now certain to follow suit in the summer, Associated Press global football writer Rob Harris is on the line to lay out what's to come at the top of the world game.

In a special extended edition of the SportsPro Podcast, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly meets in Lausanne with Travis Tygart, the chief executive of the US Anti-Doping Agency.

The discussion begins with the latest chapter in the Russian state doping saga, and the path forward now that Rusada's compliance has been confirmed - under review - for the time being. In part two, Tygart reflects on the wider challenges facing WADA, the World Anti-Doping Agency, with a presidential race due when the tenure of Sir Craig Reedie ends later this year.

Finally, the conversation turns to the US, the challenges of wrangling combat sports into stricter practices, differing standards among the major leagues and the lessons of the Lance Armstrong case. He also explains why, fundamentally, he remains optimistic about the anti-doping cause.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long shake off their Super Bowl-induced slumber to wrap up events from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, reflecting on audience figures and a pesky four-score of unsold luxury passes. They also look back on soccer's Asian Cup, won by 2022 Fifa World Cup hosts Qatar, whose attentions will now turn to the challenge of staging the biggest sporting event of them all.

There's also time to discuss the US launch of Golf Pass from NBC Sport and the PGA Tour, while BT Sport chief operating officer Jamie Hindhaugh lays out the UK pay-TV platforms innovation strategy as it launches new apps for Samsung, Xbox, Apple TV.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long reflect on another eventful week in the sports industry: from the world of anti-doping, where Norway's Linda Helleland has announced a WADA presidential after the latest instalment of the Russia saga; to investment, where City Football Group has become a founder of investment fund Sapphire Sports; to soccer, where the Asian Cup has been overshadowed by the plight of Hakeem al-Araibi.

There's also time to look ahead to two big oval-ball events: Super Bowl LIII and the return of rugby union's Six Nations. And Ben Spoont, co-founder and chief executive of Miami Heat-backed esports team Misfits Gaming, explains how he aims to create more physical touchpoints for a mostly digital fanbase.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly comes back from a trip to Berlin for the inaugural League of Legends European Championships to talk to magazine editor Michael Long about noises from the NBA about a game in Paris, the UFC's big boost to ESPN+, the NHL's rethink of its World Cup of Hockey plans, and more from a busy sports industry week.

Elsewhere on the podcast, Ted Leonsis - founder of Washington Wizards, Capitals and Mystics ownership group Monumental Sports & Entertainment - shares his thoughts on changes in the sports media landscape, the impact of data, experiments in the live experience, and what the sports business actually is.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and magazine editor Michael Long return to discuss Discovery's plans for a global cycling network after its takeover of Play Sports Group, presaging a new digital strategy around fan communities. They also reflect on a busy week in OTT, with developments in Disney's offloading of Fox's regional sports networks and the ongoing saga of the pirates of Qatari BeIN Sports.

Elsewhere in the pod, there is a discussion of the 2026 Winter Olympic race as Stockholm and Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo enter the candidate phase, and to consider the void left behind by the retiring Andy Murray as athlete power and nostalgia create a potent mix.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long return for a breezy run through the goings-on in the sports industry over the Christmas break, from Susanna Dinnage's shock U-turn over the Premier League's top job to CVC's bold plans for Premiership Rugby and the NFL's new casino deal.

Then Bruin Sports Capital founder George Pyne lays out the philosophies that drive the private equity firm - which owns the likes of Deltatre, Courtside Ventures, Engine Shop and On Location Experiences - shares some of the lessons he has learned in a career taking in Nascar and IMG, and reveals some of his business role models.

In an easily digestible broadcast tech edition, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly presents two interviews from November's SportsPro OTT Summit in Madrid.

First, Fox Sports senior vice president of product operation Dustin Myers discusses the US broadcaster's work with AI specialist IBM Aspere to create the Fifa World Cup Highlights Machine, and shares his thoughts on the role automation will play in the development of OTT production.

Then Neil Hall, the head of product for sport at the BBC, reveals how the publicly funded broadcaster is attacking latency issues to cut the gap between streams and linear TV output, the importance of new OTT rights partnerships, and how viewer engagement is changing.

As the 2018/19 NBA campaign turns the corner, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly talks to Peter Feigin, president of Eastern Conference pacesetters Milwaukee Bucks, about a season of promise and transition.

Feign discusses the opportunities that have come from setting up home at the world class new Fiserv Forum, the future of the venue experience for sports and entertainment fans, and the challenges of dealing with local government to get the facility into action and into service for the people of Wisconsin. He also talks about the Bucks' exploits on the court, including the prospect of a real tilt at the championship and working with emerging superstar and MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo.

With the festive season in sight, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long are joined by Seven League consultant Charlie Beall and Sport Industry Group head of content Catherine Inkster to reflect on the year in the business of sport, including the Fifa World Cup in Russia, the prevailing currents in the Olympic movement, media disruption, understanding Fortnite, Wilder v Fury and plenty more in between.

In a bumper edition, there's also time to look ahead to the trends that could shape 2019, and suggest some better habits for the industry next year - from opening up to new ideas to being more Kaepernick.

With the final print edition of 2018 put to bed, SportsPro magazine editor Michael Long rejoins editor-at-large Eoin Connolly to discuss a busy fortnight in the sports industry. On the agenda: whether the Copa Libertadores heralds a globe-trotting future for club soccer; a new man with a big job at the IAAF; Seattle's NHL return and the XFL's comeback; and what the experiences of Raheem Sterling, American gymnasts and Jess Varnish tell us about the growing power of the athlete voice.

Then the well-travelled World Surf League chief executive Sophie Goldschmidt, the cover star of issue 103, shares her thoughts on a fast-emerging sport, its environmental responsibility, and the potential of wave pool technology.

With over 600 delegates gathered for the second SportsPro OTT Summit at Madrid's Meliá Castilla, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly speaks to Sky Sports managing director Barney Francis about the UK pay-TV giant's digital strategy, how it has steadily adapted its model to the demands of a changing era, his expectations about life under new owner Comcast, and much more.

Meanwhile Deltatre chief product and marketing officer Carlo de Marchis, an OTT evangelist and expert, gives his thoughts on the event and the industry's fastest-emerging sector.

Since Discovery signed its US$2 billion deal with the PGA Tour in June for the international media rights to North America’s premier golfing circuit, intrigue has surrounded the makeup of the product that will carry more than 2,000 hours of PGA Tour content each year.

In a special edition of the SportsPro Podcast, staff writer Nick Friend talks to Discovery Golf president Alex Kaplan at length about an OTT product and a partnership with the PGA Tour that could change the course of sports broadcasting.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long pair up again to talk about the winner-takes-all showdown in Las Vegas between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, asking what, if anything, could be learned from The Match. They also discuss South America’s aborted soccer showpiece, as the world watched while bitter rivals Boca Juniors and River Plate didn’t play in the Copa Libertadores final, and the ITF’s controversial Kosovo’s-backed reforms to the Davis Cup.

Elsewhere, the FA’s Kelly Simmons discusses participation and the growth of women’s soccer in England, and with Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Curuana poised over the board in London, World Chess president Ilya Merenzon describes what AI, digital connections and a Tinder-style app mean for the future of the ancient game.

English soccer's elite club competition has its first new leader in two decades, with Susanna Dinnage now confirmed as the Premier League chief executive and successor to Richard Scudamore. SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long discuss the hulking in-tray facing the Animal Planet and former Discovery UK chief, from Brexit to breakaways, and fan concerns to a content revolution.

As Formula One's 2018 season comes to a close, there's another chance to assess the progress made by owner Liberty Media, with comment from commercial partnerships exec Zarah Al-Kudcy.

And with Mitel confirmed as the title sponsor of the MLB London Series, baseball icon Alex Rodriguez explains what the UK can expect from the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry, and lays out his own vision for getting another generation of fans enamoured with America's pastime.

As the Nitto ATP Finals brings the best players in men's tennis back to The O2 in London for a tenth year, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly sits down with the ATP SVP for marketing and business development, George Ciz. The conversation covers a new brand launch for the organisation and its elite tour, the lessons from the radical Next Gen Finals event, working with Amazon, why the series is like Rafa Nadal, getting the Tube with Federer and Djokovic, and plenty more besides.

Meanwhile, SportsPro print editor Michael Long is on hand to talk about a new deal for Uefa and Chinese payments giant Alipay and a new frontier for DAZN, which is heading into Spain on the back of a three-year deal with the Premier League.

SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by New York Times sports news correspondent Tariq Panja to discuss an industry week dominated again by murky soccer business, with Der Spiegel's Football Leaks reports to the fore.

Items on the agenda include the prospect of a European Super League, Gianni Infantino's role in efforts by Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City to circumvent Financial Fair Play laws, and just how shocked fans will actually be to find out how the sausages are made. There's also time to reflect on governance issues elsewhere, including a contentious presidential race in boxing's AIBA and ongoing debates around sport and Saudi Arabia, and a brief note of optimism.

Meanwhile Press Association chief sports reporter and SportsPro columnist Matt Slater is on hand to explain the latest goings-on in the world of anti-doping, as the Russian saga drags on to draw USADA into conflict with global body WADA.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly talks to print editor Michael Long, freshly returned from the Sportel Monaco media convention, about a chaotic and traumatic week in the sports industry.

There are reflections on the contribution of the tragically departed Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, Fifa's latest machinations around its Club World Cup plans and the examinations of Saudi state money in international sport after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and the small supporting role of soccer stars in the election of far-right candidate Jair Bolsanaro as president of Brazil.

Elsewhere in a packed pod there's a review of the MLB World Series and a step-change at LA 2028, while NFL EVP of international Mark Waller discussed the league's experiences in London this year and its ambitions for Mexico, China and Germany.

As the SportsPro Podcast goes weekly for the first time, editor-at-large Eoin Connolly and print editor Michael Long consider the sports industry events of recent days and look ahead to a new season in the NBA, perhaps the world's most forward-thinking league.

On the agenda are potential franchise relocations and additions; the move of basketball's biggest star, LeBron James, to the Los Angeles Lakers and the commercial activities of the players and their union; the microtransaction revolution in watching the NBA; and an interview with NBA deputy commissioner and chief operating officer Mark Tatum.

There's also the sad duty of reflecting on the contributions of two recently departed major figures in the sport: Portland Trail Blazers owner Paul Allen and Fiba general secretary Patrick Baumann.

SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly is joined by print editor Michael Long, who talks through the wealth of sports broadcasting features in the upcoming issue 102 of the magazine. With the likes of Eleven Sports, DAZN, ESPN+ and Sky Sports' Barney Francis on the agenda there is plenty to discuss, including Eleven's provocative decision to air La Liga matches during the UK's traditional Saturday 3pm TV soccer blackout.

Then Jeremy Waite, the chief strategy officer at IBM for Watson Customer Engagement in Europe, joins the pod to talk through the possibilities and challenges that artificial intelligence will create for sport and entertainment. What will we learn about fans? Will AI change how sports formats are created? And what impact will voice and visual search have?

Formula One is deep into its second full season under its new owners at Liberty Media and the picture is beginning to emerge of how the leading series in motor racing will look in the years ahead.

Speaking to broadcaster Nicki Shields at the Black Book Motorsport Forum in London, the ever-quotable F1 managing director of commercial operations Sean Bratches covers everything from a first-ever marketing campaign to the launch of F1TV, the retirement of Fernando Alonso, the need for greater competition and pioneering engineering, a revitalised sponsorship offering and plenty more.

It's the list that everyone - or some people, at least - has been talking about: SportsPro's annual rankings of the world's 50 most marketable athletes. SportsPro editor at large Eoin Connolly is joined by editor Michael Long and senior writer Sam Carp to discuss the list, the episode also features Roger Breum, from SportsPro's data partner Hookit, who explains the spontech side of this year's 50MM

A special mini-pod with Sportlogiq's Craig Buntin discussing the origins of the business and how he made the switch from athlete to chief executive.

In a snack-sized edition, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly revisits a conversation at SportAccord in Bangkok with magazine editor Michael Long and Patrick Nally, the founder and president of the International Federation of Match Poker.

Nally, widely regarded as a sports marketing pioneer for his work with the likes of Fifa, the Rugby World Cup and world athletics' IAAF, reflects on his decision to begin again and build a new pastime from the ground up. He discusses the challenges of bringing a young organisation into the world of sports politics, his excitement at the potential of match poker, and how new sports will fare in a changing federation environment.

With the second SportsPro OTT Summit confirmed for Madrid on 28th and 29th November, SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly dips into the archives to find conversations with representatives of two broadcasters at very different stages of their commercial journeys.

First up is Marc Watson, group chief executive of Eleven Sports, active around the world and newly launched in the UK. It has taken a nimble, flexible approach to each market, and Watson discusses how to decide what method of digital delivery works for each market.

Then Sky Sports director of strategy Jonathan Licht talks about the effects of the UK pay-TV giant's switch to vertical, single-sport channels, its evolving relationships with rights holders, and its take on creating bundled value for viewers on its multi-genre platform in an age of stripping down to single sources.

Esports has entranced many within the traditional sports industry and is a fast-moving, fast-growing category in its own right. Now, Texas-based Infinite Esports & Entertainment is among a handful of groups looking to establish a presence across the competitive video games sector, with teams playing in a broad range of leagues and titles, new initiatives launched as far away as India and a permanent sports venue in the works back in Arlington.

Chris Chaney, the group's founder, president and owner, and strategic partnerships director Joe Hills join SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly to discuss all of that, as well as a first season for the Houston Outlaws in the franchise-based Overwatch League, which has attracted considerable investment from within the sporting mainstream. They also discuss finding the right gaming content for the right partners, the role of players and their existing audiences, making sense of the Fortnite phenomenon, working with publishers and understanding what titles will be a hit.

As the Fifa World Cup ticks past its halfway mark, the SportsPro Podcast returns for the summer.

On the ground in Moscow for the duration of the world's biggest single-sport event, Press Association chief sports reporter Matt Slater gives SportsPro editor-at-large Eoin Connolly his take on a warm and open welcome from ordinary Russians after a build-up dominated by concerns about the host nation's leadership.

Still, there are plenty of questions to be answered elsewhere. What should we make of Russia's stunning start? Have the sponsors turned up? Is football coming home and, if so, where is it going?

Also, after a vote by the Fifa Congress before kick-off gave the 2026 World Cup to the United bid from Canada, Mexico and the US, will Russia 2018 be the last tournament of its kind? And how was the United campaign able to see off the challenge of Morocco with such surprising ease?