Coronavirus Causes Postponement Of Chinese Super League Postponed And World Athletics Indoor Championships

The Chinese Super League has opted to delay the start of the league season due to the outbreak of coronavirus across the country.

China’s Football Association has said the reasoning behind delaying the start of the season is for “Prevention and control of the pneumonia epidemic of the new coronavirus infection, and to protect the health of the majority of fans, media, players, coaches, game officials, clubs and district staff”.

In addition, World Athletics have been forced to postpone the planned World Athletics Indoor Championships which had been planned for March in Nanjing, China.

In a statement released, World Athletics state:

“It is with regret that we have agreed with the organisers of the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing (13-15 March 2020) to postpone the event to March 2021.

We know that China is doing all it can to contain the new Coronavirus and we support them in all their efforts but it is necessary to provide our athletes, Member Federations and partners with a clear way forward in what is a complex and fast-moving set of circumstances.

The advice from our medical team, who are in contact with the World Health Organisation, is that the spread of the Coronavirus both within China and outside the country is still at a concerning level and no one should be going ahead with any major gathering that can be postponed.

We have considered the possibility of relocating the event to another country and would like to thank the cities that have volunteered to host the championships. However, given concerns still exist regarding the spread of the virus outside China, we have decided not to go with this option, as it may lead to further postponement at a later date.

The indoor season for athletics falls within a narrow calendar window (up to the end of March) and we believe we will be able to find a suitable date in 2021 to host this event. We would like Nanjing to be the host given the extensive planning and preparation they have put into this event.

We have chosen not to cancel the championships as many of our athletes would like this event to take place so we will now work with our athletes, our partners and the Nanjing organising committee to secure a date in 2021 to stage this event.”

Indianapolis Colts Make Allegiant Their Official Airline Partner

Allegiant and the Indianapolis Colts have entered a partnership that will make Allegiant the “Official Airline of the Indianapolis Colts,” the airline and the team announced today.

Allegiant has been a proud airline sponsor of the Colts since 2015, but this new, multi-year agreement unites one of Indianapolis’ newest corporate leaders with the Colts, giving both organizations the chance to enhance the fan experience, whether at a game in the stands, watching from home or flying Allegiant to an away game.

“Sports travel is the ultimate leisure travel. At Allegiant, we’re always looking for ways to connect fans to the cities where they can see their favorite teams play,” said Scott DeAngelo, Allegiant’s chief marketing officer. “Being the official airline of the Colts allows us to give fans a next-level experience through special promotions, player appearances, fan activations and more.”

As part of the agreement, the upper terrace level of Lucas Oil Stadium will be named “Allegiant Terrace Level,” enhancing the value of upper concourse tickets with entertaining gameday activities, contests and more. Allegiant also will give Indiana residents the chance to compete to be permanently featured on one of 133 banners on the terrace level, immortalizing their Colts fandom for the world to see.

“The Colts look forward to our continued partnership with Allegiant, all with an eye toward enhancing the experience for fans, partners and other stakeholders,” said Roger VanDerSnick, Colts chief sales & marketing officer.  “Whether at the stadium on gameday or when traveling with Allegiant, Colts fans can expect more access to exciting activities, amenities and offers from both our companies, which will allow us to better engage with our fans and customers year-round.”

Allegiant already connects Indianapolis to Las Vegas through a twice-weekly nonstop route. But now, that route will play a role in bringing Colts fans to Las Vegas when their team takes on the renamed Las Vegas Raiders at their new home, Allegiant Stadium.  Also, as part of the agreement, football fans can expect Allegiant-branded activations at Touchdown Town, Colts promotions and activation at the Indianapolis International Airport and other in-stadium promotions like the Allegiant “Non-Stop Football Toss” with Colts team mascot “Blue.”

Allegiant identified Indianapolis as a key market for its growing cross-country service and began operating five routes out of Indianapolis in February 2015. It is one of the airline’s 20 permanent bases, which currently offers nonstop service to 15 cities. Allegiant has invested $40 million into the Indianapolis base of operations, permanently stationing 80 employees and three aircraft there. Allegiant serves four airports in Indiana—Indianapolis, South Bend, Fort Wayne and Evansville—flying thousands of Hoosiers on nonstop routes to 36 cities around the country.

“Our employees live, work and raise their families in Indianapolis, so we truly strive to be Indy’s hometown airline,” added Allegiant’s DeAngelo. “Entering into this partnership with the Colts demonstrates that we are invested in the city in every possible way, and we’re constantly looking for new ways to further embed ourselves into the fabric of the community.”

One Week To Go: 2020 iSportconnect Hospitality Masterclass

We now have just seven days until our iSportconnect Hospitality Masterclass at Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds on the 5th of February!

The iSportconnect Hospitality Masterclass is in association with leading hospitality providers Sodexo and will provide key insights and learnings from experts within the hospitality sector and offer fantastic networking opportunities to all in attendance.

Headline speakers for the event will be Eric Clouse, Sr Vice President of Sales and Service at the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jeanene Valentine, Director of Ticket Operations for Inter Miami CF, Dan Buckingham, Head of Clubhouses, Lounges and Spas at Virgin Atlantic and Oliver Wright, Head of Sales and Corporate Hospitality with Everton FC.

We have a fantastic lineup of speakers representatives from Royal Ascot, Rokit Williams Racing, ACC Liverpool, Scottish FA, Harrogate Water and Forward Associates.

Some of the topics discussed on the day will include tiering the hospitality experience for fans and the latest developments within stadiums and arenas for facilities and hospitality.

For more details on the event please see here – https://www.isportconnect.com/event/2019-hospitality-masterclass/

With a maximum of 150 invite-only delegates, iSportconnect provides a media/agency free opportunity to network with influential senior-level sports business executives. We are famous for our intimate and relaxed environment, encouraging ideas exchange and helping to introduce you to the right new connections.

To register your interest in attending the 2020 iSportconnect Hospitality Masterclass, please contact Theresa Muller at theresa@isportconnect.com

Invitation Policy: The Hospitality Masterclass is a complimentary event for iSportconnect members who are from governing bodies, sports teams, brands and broadcasters. There is no fee to become an iSportconnect member. No sports agencies, professional service providers & suppliers are allowed at our Masterclasses.

For limited partnership opportunities, please contact brandon@isportconnect.com

PUMA Joins Beach Soccer World Wide As Official Global Partner

PUMA and Beach Soccer World Wide, the major sports entity behind the creation and growth of beach soccer, have signed an agreement through which the leading sports apparel brand joins the world of beach soccer and becomes an Official Global Partner of BSWW.

The agreement between PUMA and Beach Soccer World Wide confirms the shared vision of beach soccer as a unique sport within the football family, capable of reaching audiences and communities no other sport can, in the context of a top-level, action-packed spectacle in whose DNA stunning skills, spectacular moves and flashy goals are ingrained.

Both PUMA and Beach Soccer World Wide share a global vision that transcends the sports sphere itself, also embracing fashion and lifestyle with a fresh, global and modern scope.

As of 2020, PUMA will not only supply the official balls for all BSWW competitions but will also provide uniforms BSWW officials and entertainment crew.

PUMA will also be granted brand visibility and activation rights at all BSWW events, with co-exclusivity on some assets together with the joint partner La Liga, as well as complete access to BSWW ambassadors for campaigns and promotions.

Teamsport’s Head of Sports Marketing, Manolo Schürmann, explained the innovative relationship between both brands. “In PUMA we believe that there should not be any football without PUMA, and no PUMA without football. And this is where beach soccer comes into scene. Beach Soccer is not only a part of football, but a unique sport in itself. And I think it is a great match between PUMA and Beach Soccer. Beach soccer requires a lot of skill and it is a very fast sport, just as we are Forever Faster as a Brand, always looking how to answer our consumer needs, always looking for innovation. This is why I think that this teaming up with Beach Soccer World Wide makes complete sense.”

In a similar vein, Beach Soccer World Wide president, Joan Cusco, highlighted the importance of this agreement. “PUMA and BSWW are a perfect fit for each other as we both share common goals and values. Teaming up with such a prestigious brand makes us really happy, and we are delighted that they have seen the true value of beach soccer and everything the sport can offer. I am sure that both parties will be truly satisfied with the outcome of this agreement, and we really look forward to keeping our bond into the future”.

Furthermore, PUMA is also an official partner of La Liga, and the signing of this agreement reinforces the relationship between the three entities, and the trust in beach soccer as a unique asset within the sports and footballing world.

McLaren Racing Announce Deal With FAI Aviation Group

McLaren Racing and FAI Aviation Group, Germany’s leading global provider of mission-critical aviation services, today announced a multi-year partnership beginning in the 2020 Formula 1 season.

FAI Aviation Group is a European pioneer in global high-end aircraft solutions headquartered at Nuremberg’s Albrecht Duerer International Airport. FAI’s experience spans across more than 30 years, offering a range of aviation services such as VIP charter, aircraft management, air ambulance and maintenance for government agencies, NGOs and HNWI’s.

As part of the partnership, FAI Aviation Group will be represented on the inside of the rear wing endplate of the McLaren MCL35 race car for the 2020 Formula 1 season.

Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Racing said: “The FAI Aviation Group is a perfect partner for McLaren Racing. Being trusted to provide services to NGO’s and several government agencies underlines the quality and professionalism of the company and its people. We are proud to welcome them as partners from the 2020 season.”

Siegfried Axtmann, Group Chairman and Founder, FAI Aviation Group said: “The partnership aligns two internationally recognised brands, leaders in their fields, both committed to excellence. We are very excited to become a partner of McLaren Racing enabling FAI to promote its services within the Formula 1 community.”

Teijin And Envision Virgin Racing Sign Multi-Year Partnership

Teijin Group and Envision Virgin Racing jointly announced today that they have agreed a multi-year sponsorship contract which will support the team’s participation in the ABB FIA Formula E Championship. 

Headquartered in Japan with over 170 group companies worldwide, Teijin is a leading technology-driven global group, operating in the fields of high-performance materials including advanced fibres, plastics and composites, healthcare and IT businesses. 

Envision Virgin Racing has been competing in the all-electric Formula E race series since its inception, becoming one of the sport’s most successful teams with 11 wins and 26 podiums, and energising its ‘Race Against Climate Change’ initiative, while pursuing further sustainable mobility solutions. 

The Teijin Group and Envision Virgin Racing are now committed to exchanging know-how and complementing each other’s state-of-the-art technologies. In particular, the Teijin Group will develop high-performance materials and products that will help improve the comfort of Envision Virgin Racing drivers. In the future, Teijin will also explore new business opportunities through the development and provision of lightweight, high-performance automotive components, leveraging the freedom of design that will be required for next-generation automobiles. Teijin will also take the opportunity of this sponsorship agreement to raise awareness of the Teijin brand in related industries. 

“Through ceaseless evolution and ambition, we are aiming to be a company that supports the society of the future by creating new value,” said Jun Suzuki, president and CEO of Teijin Limited. He added: “By supporting Envision Virgin Racing, which competes in races with electric vehicles (EVs) as a means of raising awareness of global warming, we will develop technologies and accumulate the know-how and solution capabilities required for future EVs that satisfy ever-stricter environmental regulations.” 

The team’s Managing Director Sylvain Filippi commented: “Formula E is one of the most competitive motorsport series there is meaning any advantage that can be gained is crucial. To ensure we have this, Envision Virgin Racing aligns with like-minded, innovative, climate-focused brands and hence why we’re very excited to have The Teijin Group join our family. Being able to tap into their wealth of expertise and high-performance material and composite technologies will help us on track, whilst away from the track we’re looking forward to working together on our Race Against Climate Change programme.” 

Franz Jung, Chairman of the Board of Envision Virgin Racing, added: “Everyone is delighted to be welcoming The Teijin Group to the team, and for them to be joining our ever-growing list of world class partners, all of whom help us achieve the success we generate both on and off track.”

Japanese Olympic Committee Approves Bid For 2030 Winter Olympics

Japan’s Olympic Committee has approved a proposal from city Sapporo to bid for the 2030 Winter Olympics.

In a statement released after a meeting to decide on whether to allow the bid to host the games, the Japanese Olympic Committee said: “The Japanese Olympic Committee Executive Board today selected Sapporo City to represent Japan as a potential city to host the Olympic Winter Games 2030.”

“From November 8, 2019 to December 20, 2019, the JOC has invited cities interested in the 2030 bid whereby Sapporo City was the only city interested in participating in the process.

“The JOC will officially notify this decision to the International Olympic Committee within days.

“The JOC will continue to communicate closely with Sapporo City to promote the spirit of sport and the Olympic Movement in Japan.”

Sapporo becomes the latest city to register interest in hosting the competition, alongside Barcelona, Lillehammer and Salt Lake City.

PSG Team Up With CoinCasso And Launch Cryptocurrency On Socios.com

Paris Saint-Germain and cryptocurrency exchange platform CoinCasso have joined forces in a multi-year international partnership, with the virtual currency giant becoming an Official Partner of the Parisian club in all markets outside of France.

CoinCasso is a blockchain specialist and will now be in a position to capitalise on Paris Saint-Germain’s high profile in its key regions of Europe, Asia and the USA, where the company is hoping to establish itself as a benchmark platform.

Luke Ozimski from CoinCasso said: “The cryptocurrency exchange market is both young and innovative. We are delighted to be one of the first specialists to reach out to the general public and team up with one of the most popular football clubs in the world. Paris Saint-Germain is an innovator, having been one of the first to engage with blockchain players back in 2018. Together we share a leading position that will allow us to showcase the quality of our service around the world.”

Marc Armstrong, Chief Partnerships Officer of Paris Saint-Germain, commented: “We are delighted to welcome CoinCasso into the Paris Saint-Germain partner family. The club continually strives to be an innovation leader and we are monitoring the development of cryptocurrency very closely, along with its potential to further enhance the experience enjoyed by our supporters across the world. This partnership with CoinCasso, will allow Paris Saint-Germain to further strengthen its position in this market.”

PSG have also signed another cryptocurrency fan token today, to choose an inspirational captain’s armband using $PSG fan tokens.

Each $PSG Fan Token will be priced at around €2 depending on the exchange rate of Chiliz $CHZ, the digital currency of Socios.com, at the time of purchase. Once acquired, $PSG Fan Tokens cannot be spent and can be used to take part in all votes on the app.

Marc Armstrong, of Paris Saint-Germain, said: “This is a very meaningful moment in the Paris Saint-Germain x Socios.com partnership history. Thanks to the launch of PSG Fan Token, our fans will now be able to drive important and symbolic decisions for the Club. As of today, the Club reinforce its proximity with fans, which is one of our main values.”

Alexandre Dreyfus, CEO & Founder of Socios.com, said: “What better way to influence Thiago Silva and future leaders of the team, than with an inspirational message of support to go inside the captain’s armband.

“The message $PSG Fan Token holders choose in this vote will have the potential to inspire captain’s of Paris Saint-Germain for generations to come, creating a new legacy between the club and its fans. Building a stronger connection between the club and its fans is the raison d’etre of Socios.com. Thanks to $PSG Fan Tokens, supporters will be able to play a part in reshaping the identity of the club, while accessing some amazing rewards and experiences along the way.

“I look forward to the outcome of this first poll and hope it proves truly inspirational for Thiago and the future captains of Paris Saint-Germain.”

Infront Acquires Stake In AI Company Videocites

Infront has acquired a stake in Videocites, an AI-based video tracking and analytics company and will look to introduce the company’s technology and services to current and future rights partners. This includes content protection, media monitoring and content management.

The investment was led by Infront Lab, a new unit within the group which explores opportunities for intelligent solutions to challenges facing clients and partners in an agile and efficient manner.

Videocites’ unique fingerprinting technology uses visual properties within videos in order to immediately track all copies of live, on-demand and promotional content across all channels. This gives content owners deeper insight into consumer behaviour than traditional analytics, helping them to better understand their audience and influencers.

Moreover, the tool provides more detailed information on earned media value, a valuable indicator for sponsors to see the impact of their sponsorship. It also identifies pirate streams of on-demand and sports events, removing them immediately and substantially reducing the number of illegal broadcasts and lost views.

Christian Müller, Infront Senior Vice President People, Innovation & Corporate Services said: “Videocites’ technology can help gather intelligence for our partners whilst also protecting their content, solving two common issues currently facing the industry. This investment is a continuation of Infront Lab’s work with some of the world’s most exciting technology start-ups which has provided huge benefits to our clients.”

Eyal Arad, Videocites CEO said: “Videocites’ unique advantage comes from our Video-AI search engine that scales to any number of videos to track all copies immediately. It is immune to all existing video manipulations and is used to offer high-end content protection, true viewership and fan engagement metrics across numerous channels. The partnership with Infront Lab will allow us to introduce our technology and services to some of the world’s top sports properties, assuring rapid market penetration and significant growth.“

Connexi Turns The Lights On With Wigan Warriors And Utility Alliance Partnership

Utility Alliance and Wigan Warriors announce their partnership for the upcoming 2020 BETFRED Super League Season and the years to come.

The partnership will see Utility Alliance, one of the fastest-growing energy consultancies in the UK, positioned as the Club’s new Official Energy Partner.

This partnership will focus on improving energy efficiency in order to reduce usage and costs, Utility Alliance will be working very closely with the Club, its commercial network and local businesses to deliver mutually beneficial relationships which will add value to the whole community.

Kirstie Wallace, Corporate Relationship Manager at Utility Alliance, said: “We are delighted to be involved with Wigan Warriors ahead of what promises to be an exciting season.

“We have spent a lot of time working behind the scenes with the executive team at Wigan, and we look forward to building up a mutually beneficial relationship moving forward.

“Wigan Warriors are one of the most iconic brands in rugby league, and to be linked with the club as their official energy partner is something which gives everyone connected with Utility Alliance a great deal of pride.”

Dan Burton, Commercial Director for Wigan Warriors “Utility Alliance, have demonstrated their expertise throughout this process, both in the form of leading industry experts as well as their excellent customer service culture which has been second to none.

“We look forward to working with Utility Alliance and welcoming them to the Club, where they will add tremendous value to our existing commercial partners as well as the wider business and education communities.

“I would also like to thank Rory Stewart-Richardson and Connexi, who have been a valuable partner throughout this process. Connexi provides us with the opportunity to engage in qualified discussions with brands, where as an active member within their innovative marketplace, we have benefited greatly from their data driven approach.

“Our relationship with Connexi presents an engaged environment which produces both mutually beneficial, and commercially relevant, discussions.”